FoodScore
0/ 100
PoordairyBARBARA'S· 1 cup

BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL, PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE

BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL scores 31/100 (Poor) due primarily to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.

  • This cereal has a FoodScore of 31/100, indicating a poor nutritional rating.
  • It contains 23.7g of added sugar per 100g, a major nutritional concern.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed.
  • With 7.9g of fiber per 100g, it offers more fiber than many other cereals.
  • Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
  • Scores -2 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
7.89g
28% of Daily Value
Protein
7.89g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.7g
47% of Daily Value
Sodium
473.68mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.9g)+10
Protein (7.9g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.7g)-25
Sodium (473.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 31

BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 31/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The most significant factor contributing to this low score is the high amount of added sugar, at 23.7g per 100g. This substantial sugar content leads to a significant penalty in the scoring system. The product also incurs a penalty for being ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), indicating a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients and processes. While it does receive some bonus points for its fiber content (7.9g per 100g) and protein (7.9g per 100g), these positive attributes are outweighed by the penalties. The presence of cane sugar as a primary ingredient highlights the source of much of the added sugar. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has lower added sugar and sodium, this cereal presents a less favorable nutritional profile, particularly concerning its sugar load and processing level.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in barbara's peanut butter & chocolate cereal, peanut butter & chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This cereal provides 7.9g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and potentially supporting satiety. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can be a part of a balanced eating pattern, and this product offers a notable amount compared to some other breakfast cereals. The oat hull fiber and whole grain oat flour contribute to this benefit.

Contains Essential Minerals

BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL is a source of certain essential minerals. It provides 18% DV for calcium and 12% DV for iron per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and other bodily functions, while iron plays a vital role in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. These micronutrients are beneficial additions to the diet, especially if intake from other sources is limited.

Provides Protein

With 7.89g of protein per 100g, this cereal contributes to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. While not a primary protein source, this amount can add to the overall protein content of a meal, particularly when combined with other protein-rich foods like milk or yogurt.

How to eat it

Cereals like BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE are typically consumed as a quick breakfast, often with milk. A common portion is 1 cup, but it's important to be mindful of the added sugar content when incorporating it into your routine.

To balance the meal, pair this cereal with fresh fruit like berries or a sliced banana to add natural sweetness and additional fiber.
Consider mixing it with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to dilute the added sugar content per serving.
Use a smaller portion size than the recommended 1 cup to help manage your intake of added sugars and calories.
Combine with a source of lean protein, such as plain Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg, to enhance satiety and balance blood sugar levels.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Individuals with peanut allergies should avoid this cereal. The high amount of cane sugar contributes significantly to the added sugar content, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or those looking to reduce their overall sugar intake. The sodium content of 473.68mg per 100g is moderate, but those monitoring sodium intake should be aware. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients like natural flavor and caramel color, which some consumers prefer to limit in their diet.

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Reader questions
Is BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL a healthy breakfast option?
With a FoodScore of 31/100 (Poor), BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL is not considered a healthy everyday breakfast option. Its high added sugar content is the primary reason for this rating, despite providing some fiber and protein. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
How does BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to many plain, whole-grain cereals like Cheerios, BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL has significantly more added sugar. While it offers comparable fiber and protein to some fortified cereals, its ultra-processed nature and high sugar content make it a less favorable choice for daily consumption than simpler, less processed options.
What is 'cane sugar' in the ingredient list?
Cane sugar is a common type of refined sugar derived from sugarcane. In this cereal, it is listed as a primary ingredient, indicating it is a significant contributor to the product's 23.7g of added sugar per 100g. It provides sweetness but offers minimal nutritional value beyond calories.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. However, given the high added sugar (23.7g per 100g), consuming a smaller portion, such as half a cup, might be a more appropriate strategy for managing sugar intake. Always consider your overall dietary goals when determining portion sizes.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes whole grain oat flour, indicating the presence of whole grains. While this contributes to the cereal's fiber content, it's important to note that the overall nutritional profile is still significantly impacted by the high amount of added sugar and its ultra-processed classification.
Is this cereal suitable for children?
Due to its high added sugar content, BARBARA'S PEANUT BUTTER & CHOCOLATE CEREAL should be offered to children in moderation. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars, and this product contributes significantly to daily limits. Consider it an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a child's breakfast.

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