APPLE JACKS SWEETENED CEREAL WITH APPLE & CINNAMON
APPLE JACKS SWEETENED CEREAL WITH APPLE & CINNAMON scores 37/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
APPLE JACKS scores 37/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 25g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
The cereal is fortified with several micronutrients, including 90% DV for Iron and 199% DV for Vitamin A per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, unlike plain rolled oats.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -10 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
10.71g
38% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
25g
50% of Daily Value
Sodium
535.71mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.7g)+12
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (25g)-25
Sodium (535.7mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 37
APPLE JACKS SWEETENED CEREAL WITH APPLE & CINNAMON received a FoodScore of 37 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its high amount of added sugar, which stands at 25g per 100g, incurring a significant penalty of -25 points. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, also contributes a -10 point penalty. Furthermore, the sodium content of 535.71mg per 100g results in a minor penalty of -2 points. On the positive side, APPLE JACKS provides 10.71g of fiber per 100g, earning a +12 bonus. It is also fortified with several micronutrients, including 90% DV for Iron, 49% DV for Zinc, 199% DV for Vitamin A, 60% DV for Vitamin C, and 223% DV for Vitamin B12 per 100g, collectively adding another +12 bonus. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are naturally low in added sugar and sodium and are minimally processed, APPLE JACKS contains significantly more sugar and artificial ingredients like Yellow 6 and Blue 1.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in apple jacks sweetened cereal with apple & cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Micronutrients
APPLE JACKS is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, which can help address potential dietary gaps. Per 100g, it provides 90% DV for Iron, crucial for oxygen transport and energy, and 199% DV for Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. It also offers 60% DV for Vitamin C and 223% DV for Vitamin B12. While these nutrients are added, they contribute to the overall micronutrient intake, especially for individuals who may not consistently consume a wide variety of whole foods.
Contribution to Daily Fiber Intake
This cereal contains 10.71g of fiber per 100g, which is a notable amount. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to satiety. While some of this fiber comes from whole grain oat flour and soluble corn fiber, it is a positive aspect of the product's nutritional profile. Including fiber-rich foods can support overall gut function and may help manage blood sugar levels.
Quick Energy Source
With 357.14 calories per 100g, APPLE JACKS can provide a rapid source of energy, particularly due to its carbohydrate content. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as children or those with high energy demands, this cereal can serve that purpose. The combination of carbohydrates and some fiber can offer a more sustained energy release compared to simple sugars alone, though the high added sugar content should be considered.
APPLE JACKS SWEETENED CEREAL WITH APPLE & CINNAMON scores 37/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
APPLE JACKS is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. It is a convenient and ready-to-eat option for many households. Common portion sizes are around 1 cup, but it's easy to over-pour, leading to higher intake of added sugars and calories.
Pair with unsweetened milk or a plant-based alternative to avoid adding more sugar to your meal.
Combine a smaller portion of APPLE JACKS with plain rolled oats or a higher-fiber, lower-sugar cereal to dilute the added sugar content.
Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to your bowl to boost fiber and natural sweetness without relying on added sugars.
Use this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to moderate added sugar intake over time.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in APPLE JACKS, which is 25g per 100g. Regular consumption of foods high in added sugars can contribute to an increased risk of dental caries and may make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. The ingredient list also includes artificial colors such as Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Red 40, which some individuals, particularly children, may choose to limit due to potential sensitivities. The presence of partially hydrogenated soybean and/or cottonseed oil indicates the potential for trace amounts of trans fats, although the label declares 0g trans fat per serving. Individuals with allergies to wheat or soy should note their presence in the ingredient list.
APPLE JACKS scores 37/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is fortified with several vitamins and minerals like Iron and Vitamin A, its high added sugar content (25g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food significantly impact its overall nutritional rating. It is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does APPLE JACKS compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, lower-sugar option like Cheerios, APPLE JACKS has significantly more added sugar and artificial colors. While both are fortified, Cheerios typically offers a higher proportion of whole grains and less processing. For instance, a serving of Cheerios has less than 2g of added sugar, making it a more favorable choice for daily consumption.
What does 'ultra-processed' mean for this cereal?
APPLE JACKS is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. This classification indicates that it contains ingredients not typically used in home cooking, such as modified food starch, soluble corn fiber, and artificial colors. Ultra-processed foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, and their regular consumption is associated with less healthy dietary patterns.
What is a reasonable portion size for APPLE JACKS?
The declared serving size for APPLE JACKS is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps to manage the intake of added sugars and calories. However, given its nutritional profile, it is advisable to consider this cereal as an occasional food rather than a daily staple, even when sticking to the recommended serving.
Are the artificial colors in APPLE JACKS a concern?
APPLE JACKS contains artificial colors such as Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Red 40. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals, particularly parents, choose to limit these additives in their diet or their children's diets due to concerns about potential behavioral effects in sensitive individuals. It is a personal choice based on individual sensitivities.