BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON, CINNAMON
BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON receives a FoodScore of 23/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This cereal has a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
A 100g serving contains 23.31g of added sugar, a significant amount.
It provides 3.3g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food, unlike plain rolled oats.
Consider serving smaller portions to manage intake of added sugars and sodium.
Scores -24 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.31g
47% of Daily Value
Sodium
466.67mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.3g)-25
Sodium (466.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 23
BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON scores 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 23.31g per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of 25 points. Ingredients like sugar and fructose are listed early, reflecting their prominence. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, results in a 10-point penalty. The sodium content, at 466.67mg per 100g, also contributes a minor penalty of 1 point. On the positive side, the cereal receives 3 bonus points for its fiber content (3.3g per 100g) and 6 bonus points for notable micronutrients like calcium (21% DV), magnesium (13% DV), and phosphorus. However, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties, particularly when compared to a baseline like plain rolled oats, which would contain no added sugar or sodium and would not be classified as ultra-processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bear river valley sweetened whole wheat and rice cereal with cinnamon, cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Whole Grains
This cereal lists whole grain wheat as its first ingredient, providing a base of whole grains. While the processing and added ingredients dilute this benefit, consuming whole grains is associated with dietary fiber intake. The product contains 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber goals. Including whole grains in the diet is important for digestive health and can help with satiety.
Provides Essential Minerals
BEAR RIVER VALLEY cereal is fortified with several minerals, notably calcium and magnesium. A 100g serving provides 21% DV for calcium and 13% DV for magnesium. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including energy production and nerve function. These micronutrients contribute positively to the product's overall nutritional profile.
Convenient Breakfast Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy breakfast, this cereal offers convenience. Its ready-to-eat format requires minimal preparation, making it a practical choice for busy mornings. While its nutritional profile warrants moderation, the ease of preparation can be a factor for those with limited time. It can be a starting point for a meal that can be enhanced with other nutrient-dense additions.
BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON receives a FoodScore of 23/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. The standard serving size is 3/4 cup, but it's easy to consume larger portions. Due to its high added sugar content, mindful portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Combine with unsweetened milk and fresh fruit to add natural sweetness, vitamins, and additional fiber.
Use a smaller bowl to help manage portion sizes and avoid overconsumption of added sugars.
Mix a small amount of this cereal with a higher-fiber, lower-sugar option like plain shredded wheat or oats to dilute the sugar content.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and sugar load.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should note that this product contains whole grain wheat and is not gluten-free. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, which is an allergen for those with soy allergies. The high added sugar content, including sugar and fructose, may be a concern for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes. The maltodextrin present can also impact blood sugar levels. While generally recognized as safe, the presence of annatto and caramel color may be a consideration for those sensitive to food colorings. Overall, the ultra-processed nature of this cereal suggests a cautious approach to frequent consumption.
Is BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL healthy?
BEAR RIVER VALLEY SWEETENED WHOLE WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 23/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it provides some fiber and essential minerals like calcium, its high added sugar content (23.31g per 100g) and ultra-processed classification are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is not considered a healthy staple for daily consumption.
How does BEAR RIVER VALLEY cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a less processed whole-grain option like plain shredded wheat (e.g., Post Shredded Wheat), BEAR RIVER VALLEY cereal contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. While both are grain-based, the added sugars and processing in BEAR RIVER VALLEY make it a less optimal choice for regular consumption. Plain shredded wheat typically has no added sugar or sodium.
What is the role of 'natural flavor' in this cereal?
Natural flavor in this cereal refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, or vegetables, to enhance the taste. While the term 'natural' might sound appealing, the specific components of natural flavor are not always disclosed and can be complex mixtures. From a nutritional standpoint, they primarily contribute to taste rather than significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 3/4 cup. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage the intake of added sugars and sodium. For a 3/4 cup serving, the added sugar content would be approximately 17.5g. Consuming larger portions will significantly increase your intake of these components, making it harder to maintain a balanced dietary pattern.
Can this cereal be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its calorie density (433.33 calories per 100g) and high added sugar content, this cereal may not be the most supportive choice for weight management if consumed regularly or in large portions. Foods high in added sugars can contribute to excess calorie intake without providing sustained satiety. Opting for higher-fiber, lower-sugar breakfast options is generally more beneficial for weight management.