Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal
Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal scores 32/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This Cheerios cereal received a FoodScore of 32/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 22.4g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
The product provides 8g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this cereal is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this product has considerably more added sugar and sodium.
Scores -15 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
8g
29% of Daily Value
Protein
8g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
22.4g
45% of Daily Value
Sodium
405mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8g)+10
Protein (8g)+4
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (22.4g)-25
Sodium (405mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 32
Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal receives a FoodScore of 32 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is significantly impacted by its high added sugar content, which stands at 22.4g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of 25 points. While the product does offer 8g of fiber and 8g of protein per 100g, earning it bonus points, these positive aspects are largely offset by the sugar. The presence of 405mg of sodium per 100g also contributes a minor penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a 10-point deduction. Ingredients like corn syrup and refiner's syrup contribute to the added sugar load. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, this Cheerios cereal contains significantly more added sugar and sodium, making it a less optimal choice for a daily breakfast.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cheerios apple cinnamon cheerios gluten free breakfast cereal actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This cereal provides 8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to digestive health and satiety. Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet, helping to regulate bowel movements and potentially support healthy blood sugar levels. Including fiber-rich foods like this can help meet daily recommended intake goals.
Fortified with Essential Micronutrients
Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, including iron (56% DV) and calcium (27% DV) per 100g. These micronutrients are crucial for various bodily functions, such as red blood cell formation and bone health. Fortification helps address potential dietary gaps, especially for individuals who may not consume enough of these nutrients from other sources.
Gluten-Free Option
For individuals following a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this cereal offers a convenient and certified gluten-free breakfast option. Made with whole grain oats, it provides an alternative to wheat-based cereals, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy a familiar breakfast food without gluten exposure.
Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal scores 32/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Breakfast cereals like Cheerios Apple Cinnamon are typically consumed with milk as a quick morning meal. A common serving is 1 cup of cereal with 1/2 cup of skim milk. While convenient, it's important to consider the overall nutritional balance of the meal.
To reduce the added sugar intake, consider mixing this cereal with a lower-sugar, plain whole-grain cereal.
Pair with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced apples, to add natural sweetness and additional fiber and vitamins.
Combine with a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to enhance satiety and create a more balanced meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; sticking to the recommended 1 cup serving can help manage calorie and sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal is its high added sugar content, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. While the product is gluten-free, it contains corn syrup and refiner's syrup, which contribute to the sugar load. The sodium content of 405mg per 100g is also notable, and those on sodium-restricted diets should be aware. The ingredient list also includes trisodium phosphate, a common food additive. This product is generally safe for most populations when consumed in moderation, but the sugar content warrants attention.
Is Cheerios Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal healthy?
This cereal scores 32/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional profile. While it provides fiber and is fortified with some micronutrients, its high added sugar content (22.4g per 100g) is a significant factor in its lower score. It is considered an ultra-processed food.
How does Cheerios Apple Cinnamon compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened whole-grain cereal like Quaker Old Fashioned Oats, this Cheerios product contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. While it offers convenience and fortification, the nutritional density of plain oats is generally higher due to the absence of added sugars and processing.
What is 'refiner's syrup' in the ingredient list?
Refiner's syrup is a type of sugar syrup produced during the refining of sugar. It is a source of added sugar in this cereal, contributing to the overall 22.4g of added sugar per 100g. It is chemically similar to other forms of sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The recommended serving size is 1 cup with 1/2 cup skim milk. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of calories, added sugars, and sodium. Consuming larger portions will increase your intake of these components, potentially impacting your daily dietary goals.
Can I eat this cereal every day?
While technically possible, due to its 'Poor' FoodScore and high added sugar content, consuming this cereal daily might contribute to an overall diet higher in added sugars than recommended. It's advisable to vary your breakfast choices and incorporate less processed, whole-food options more frequently to achieve a balanced diet.