Kellogg's is changing the recipe for Rice Krispies and Coco Pops in the UK. The puffs will no longer be made from whole rice grains. They will instead use corn flour and rice flour, and will contain wheat gluten.
A Kellogg's spokesperson attributed the change to "changing weather conditions" that have disrupted supplies of some grains and cereals. The company said the new versions had been "carefully assessed for taste, appearance and texture."
Some consumers have objected online. Fans said the cereals no longer make the famous "pop" sound, and some described the taste and texture as "totally different." One critic called the change "grim" and another called it "disgusting."
Kellogg's said the change will help "maintain consistent quality" as extreme weather affects crops and pushes up ingredient prices. The company said the cereals still meet UK food standards for fat, salt and sugar, and that they contain no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. It said the fibre, vitamin D and iron content is staying the same.
Packaging will now carry a "contains wheat gluten" warning. Previously, packs said the products "may contain gluten" because of possible cross-contamination in a factory that handles other cereals.
Kellogg's said there are no changes to Rice Krispies products in the US and Canada, and that it has not changed the recipe for any of its other cereals.