After panicky decisions to ensure racial equality on Earth by doing away with food brands based on black characters, namely Aunt Jemima syrup and Uncle Ben’s rice, Conagra Brands declared on June 17 that it has “begun a complete brand and packaging review on Mrs. Butterworth’s,” reports US News.
That’s right, the pancake syrup in the lady-shaped brown bottle. If you have enjoyed it, you may be a racist.
Some people have taken the shape of the brand’s trademark bottles as a racial insult, likening it to the offensive “Mammy” caricature of black women from many decades ago.
Conagra’s statement is almost comical in its desperation: “The Mrs. Butterworth’s brand, including its syrup packaging, is intended to evoke the images of a loving grandmother. We stand in solidarity with our Black and Brown communities and we can see that our packaging may be interpreted in a way that is wholly inconsistent with our values.”
The company said its actions “help play an important role in eliminating racial bias.”
But will they give back all Mrs. Butterworth’s profits?
“It’s heartbreaking and unacceptable that racism and racial injustices exist around the world,” Conagra’s statement said. “We will be part of the solution. Let’s work together to progress toward change.”
