'Flamin' Hot Cheetos' come under fire as health concerns arise

CINCINNATI - You may want to take a look at your children's snacks after a school is calling a brand of Cheetos addictive and a health hazard.

“Flamin’ Hot Cheetos,” the spicy, orange-hued delectable made famous by Frito Lay is coming under scrutiny at one New Mexico Middle School and teachers and parents are suggesting it be banned, according to a Huffington Post article .

A health teacher at Lyndon B. Johnson Middle School sent a letter to parents urging them to keep the snack food at home. Poor nutritional value and the risk of spreading germs were at the forefront of the teacher's concerns. The red fingerprints left across school surfaces only fueled dissatisfaction.

One family size pack of "Flamin’ Hot Cheetos" contains 44 grams of fat and almost 700 calories. That is nearly half the daily recommended caloric intake for a teenager.

Some experts say the Cheetos riddled with artificial flavors and coloring are “hyperpalatable,” meaning they’re highly addictive.

Frito Lay says it is “committed to responsible and ethical practices, which includes not marketing our products to children ages 12 and under,” according to an ABC News story .

While the Cheetos are under fire in schools, some kids can't seem to get enough of the snack -- even inspiring a group of kids to rap about the treat. To watch their video, click on the video player below (Note to mobile and tablet users: Open video in a browser to watch the video.)

What do you think about kids eating "Flamin' Hot Cheetos"? Tell us in the comment section below or post on our WCPO 9 On Your Side Facebook page .