We all have moments where we say things we regret. And it seems that the CEO of Kellogg’s, Gary Pilnick, had one of those moments recently. Pilnick, who has been with the company for over 20 years, made some comments that didn’t sit well with many people, especially those who are struggling financially.

Instead of offering solid advice on how to improve one’s financial situation, Pilnick suggested that people should eat cereal more frequently. To make matters worse, he mentioned that cereal is more affordable compared to other food options. This comment sparked a wave of criticism, considering the CEO himself earns around $5 million per year.

Pilnick went on to say, “In general, the cereal category is a place that a lot of folks might come to because the price of a bowl of cereal with milk and with fruit is less than a dollar. So you can imagine why a consumer under pressure might find that to be a good place to go.”

Unsurprisingly, people were quick to express their displeasure with his remarks. They pointed out the irony of the CEO advocating for cheap cereal while enjoying lavish meals at five-star restaurants or having a personal chef.

Now, I’m not saying that eating cereal on a tight budget is a bad idea. However, it’s clear that Pilnick’s comments struck a nerve because they didn’t come from the right place. It’s essential for leaders to empathize with and understand the challenges faced by their consumers, rather than making superficial and out-of-touch suggestions.