BETTER OATS STEEL CUT OATS, APPLES & CINNAMON receives a FoodScore of 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This product scores 43/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
It contains 20g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its lower score.
With 8.6g of fiber per 100g, it offers a notable amount of dietary fiber.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this SKU has considerably more added sugar and sodium.
Consider this as an occasional breakfast option rather than a daily staple.
Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
8.6g
31% of Daily Value
Protein
11.4g
23% of Daily Value
Added sugar
20g
40% of Daily Value
Sodium
485.71mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8.6g)+11
Protein (11.4g)+7
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (20g)-25
Sodium (485.7mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 43
BETTER OATS STEEL CUT OATS, APPLES & CINNAMON earns a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is the 20g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. This amount is considerable for a single serving breakfast item. The product also receives a -5 point penalty for being a NOVA class 3 processed food, indicating it contains added substances like sugar and flavorings. A minor penalty of -1 point is applied for its 485.71mg of sodium per 100g. On the positive side, the product gains +11 points for its 8.6g of fiber per 100g and +7 points for its 11.4g of protein. Micronutrient bonuses for iron, magnesium, and phosphorus add another +6 points. However, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties, particularly from the sugar ingredient.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in better oats steel cut oats, apples & cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This BETTER OATS product provides 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is known to support digestive regularity and can help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is important for overall gut health and can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose. The fiber content here is a positive attribute for this processed oat product.
Provides Plant-Based Protein
With 11.4g of protein per 100g, this product offers a notable amount of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a role in numerous bodily functions. Incorporating protein into your breakfast can help you feel fuller for longer, which may reduce the likelihood of snacking before your next meal. This can be a beneficial component for those looking to increase their plant-protein intake.
Contains Essential Minerals
This product contributes to your intake of several essential minerals, including iron (17% DV) and magnesium (27% DV) per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. These minerals are important for maintaining various aspects of health.
BETTER OATS STEEL CUT OATS, APPLES & CINNAMON receives a FoodScore of 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
This pre-portioned pouch of steel cut oats is designed for convenience, typically consumed as a quick breakfast option. It's often prepared with hot water or milk, making it a fast meal for busy mornings. While convenient, be mindful of the added sugar content when incorporating it into your regular diet.
To reduce the overall sugar impact, consider mixing half a pouch of BETTER OATS with an equal amount of plain, unsweetened rolled oats.
Enhance the nutritional profile by adding fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana, and a handful of unsalted nuts or seeds for healthy fats and additional fiber.
Pair with a source of lean protein, such as a hard-boiled egg or plain Greek yogurt, to create a more balanced meal that promotes satiety.
Be aware of the serving size; one pouch is 100g, which is a standard portion, but adjust based on your dietary needs.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be mindful of the 20g of added sugar per 100g in this product. The ingredient list clearly shows 'SUGAR' as the second ingredient, indicating a significant amount. While the product contains flaxseed, which is a source of healthy fats, the overall formulation includes natural flavor, which can be a blend of substances. There are no common allergens explicitly declared beyond the oats themselves, but those with severe sensitivities should always check for cross-contamination warnings on the packaging.
Is BETTER OATS STEEL CUT OATS, APPLES & CINNAMON healthy?
This product has a FoodScore of 43/100 (Poor). While it provides fiber and protein, its high added sugar content is a significant nutritional drawback. For a healthier option, consider plain steel cut oats and adding your own fruit and a small amount of sweetener.
How does BETTER OATS compare to other oatmeal brands?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened oatmeal like Quaker Old Fashioned Oats, this BETTER OATS product contains substantially more added sugar and sodium. While it offers convenience and flavor, the nutritional trade-offs are notable due to the added ingredients. Plain oats offer more flexibility for customizing your meal.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
'Natural flavor' is a broad term that can encompass a variety of ingredients derived from natural sources, used to impart specific tastes. While derived from natural sources, it's still an additive that contributes to the processed nature of the food. The specific components are not disclosed on the label.
Can I eat this product every day?
Due to its 20g of added sugar per 100g, consuming this product daily may contribute to exceeding recommended daily sugar limits. It's best viewed as an occasional breakfast item. For daily consumption, opting for plain oats with fresh fruit and minimal added sweeteners is a more nutritionally sound choice.
Does this product contain whole grains?
Yes, the primary ingredient is 'STEEL CUT OATS,' which are a whole grain. This contributes to the product's fiber content and some of its micronutrient benefits. However, the presence of added sugar and other ingredients means it is a processed whole grain product.