Is Quaker Instant oatmeal safe? What is the Quaker Oats controversy?

If you are a fan of oatmeal, you may have wondered if Quaker Instant Oatmeal is safe to eat. After all, oatmeal is a nutritious whole grain that can lower cholesterol, improve digestion, and provide energy. However, not all oatmeal products are created equal, and some may contain ingredients that are harmful to your health.

The Quaker Oats Company is one of the oldest and most trusted brands of oatmeal in the United States. However, in recent years, the company has faced several lawsuits and recalls over its products.

In 2016, a lawsuit claimed that Quaker Oats contained traces of glyphosate, a herbicide that is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the World Health Organization. The lawsuit alleged that Quaker Oats misled consumers by labeling its products as “100% natural” when they contained a chemical that is not found in nature.

Quaker Oats denied the allegations and said that its products met all safety standards. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018. In 2020, another lawsuit accused Quaker Oats of using artificial trans fats in its oatmeal products, which are linked to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The lawsuit claimed that Quaker Oats failed to disclose the presence of trans fats on its labels and violated consumer protection laws. Quaker Oats said that it removed trans fats from its products in 2015 and that the lawsuit was without merit. The lawsuit is still pending.

In 2023, Quaker Oats recalled over 90 different products, mainly granola bars and cereals, due to possible salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and sometimes serious complications.

Quaker Oats said that it received no confirmed reports of illness related to the recall and that it was taking precautionary measures to ensure food safety.

Some varieties of Quaker Instant Oatmeal are better than others in terms of nutrition and ingredients. Be aware of the potential risks and controversies associated with some Quaker products and always stay updated on any recalls or lawsuits.