FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainAPPLE JACKS· 1 1/3 Cup

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, CARAMEL

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL scores 28/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.

  • FoodScore: 28/100 (Avoid) indicates this product contributes minimally to a balanced diet.
  • Contains 38.5g of added sugar per 100g, a primary factor in its low score.
  • Provides 64% DV of iron and 128% DV of vitamin B12 per 100g.
  • This NOVA 4 ultra-processed cereal offers less nutritional density than plain rolled oats.
  • Consider as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
  • Scores -19 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
5.1g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
5.13g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
38.5g
77% of Daily Value
Sodium
512.82mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.1g)+6
Protein (5.1g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (38.5g)-25
Sodium (512.8mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 28

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The most significant factor contributing to this score is the high amount of added sugar, at 38.5g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. While the product does contain some beneficial micronutrients, such as 11.49mg (64% DV) of iron and 128% DV of vitamin B12, these bonuses are largely offset by the sugar content. The presence of whole grain yellow corn flour and whole grain oat flour provides 5.1g of fiber per 100g, earning a bonus. However, the product's classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is ultra-processed, resulting in a penalty. Additionally, the sodium content of 512.82mg per 100g contributes a minor penalty. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are minimally processed and contain no added sugar or high sodium, APPLE JACKS presents a significantly different nutritional profile, leaning heavily towards added sugars and processing.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in apple jacks caramel flavored cereal, caramel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL is fortified with iron, providing 11.49mg per 100g, which is 64% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. Including iron-fortified foods can help individuals meet their daily requirements, particularly for those at risk of deficiency. While this cereal contributes to iron intake, it is important to consider its overall nutritional composition.

Contains B Vitamins

This cereal is fortified with several B vitamins, including 128% DV of Vitamin B12, 51% DV of Folate, and significant amounts of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamin (Vitamin B1), and Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) per 100g. B vitamins play a vital role in energy metabolism and nerve function. Fortified cereals can be a convenient way to ensure adequate intake of these micronutrients, especially for individuals following certain dietary patterns where B12 might be less available.

Provides Dietary Fiber

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL contains 5.1g of fiber per 100g, derived from ingredients like whole grain yellow corn flour and oat fiber. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount of fiber is a positive aspect, it should be considered within the context of the product's overall nutritional profile, which includes a high amount of added sugar.

How to eat it

APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal with milk. A common portion size is 1 1/3 cups, which is approximately 33g. Due to its high added sugar content, it is generally not recommended as a daily staple.

To reduce added sugar intake, consider mixing this cereal with an unsweetened whole-grain cereal like plain shredded wheat.
Pair with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts, to enhance satiety and balance blood sugar.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a regular breakfast option to manage overall added sugar consumption.
Be mindful of portion sizes; measuring out a single serving can help control calorie and sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, which is 38.5g per 100g. This can contribute to excessive sugar intake if consumed regularly. The ingredient list also includes Red 40 and Yellow 6, artificial food colors that some individuals choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. The product contains wheat, which is an allergen for individuals with celiac disease or wheat allergies. The presence of hydrogenated coconut, soybean and/or cottonseed oil indicates the use of partially hydrogenated oils, which may contain trans fats, although the label states 0g trans fat per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution due to its sugar load.

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Reader questions
Is APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL healthy?
With a FoodScore of 28/100, APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content is a primary concern, outweighing the benefits from fortification with iron and B vitamins. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a staple.
How does APPLE JACKS compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like plain rolled oats, APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL has significantly more added sugar and sodium. Even when compared to other sweetened cereals like General Mills' Honey Nut Cheerios, APPLE JACKS often contains a higher proportion of added sugars, making it a less favorable option for daily intake.
What is 'soluble corn fiber' in this cereal?
Soluble corn fiber is a type of dietary fiber derived from corn. It is added to foods to boost their fiber content and can contribute to digestive health. While it adds fiber to APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, it is an isolated fiber and part of an ultra-processed food matrix.
What is a reasonable portion size for APPLE JACKS?
The declared serving size is 1 1/3 cups (approximately 33g). Sticking to this portion size is important to manage the intake of calories and added sugars. For children, a smaller portion may be appropriate, especially given the high sugar concentration.
Are the artificial colors in APPLE JACKS a concern?
APPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL contains artificial colors like Red 40 and Yellow 6. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals, particularly parents, choose to limit or avoid artificial colors in their diet due to perceived sensitivities or behavioral effects in some children. This is a personal dietary choice.

Explore more

CategoryAll grains & breads BrandAll APPLE JACKS SKUs Competitor · 85/100Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Competitor · 85/100BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headAPPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, CARAMEL vs. Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Head-to-headAPPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, CARAMEL vs. BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headAPPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, CARAMEL vs. Jovial Organic Whole Grain Einkorn Penne Head-to-headAPPLE JACKS CARAMEL FLAVORED CEREAL, CARAMEL vs. Jovial Organic Einkorn Spaghetti

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