FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorgrainCHEERIOS· 1 CONTAINER

CHEERIOS HONEY NUT SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH REAL HONEY & NATURAL ALMOND FLAVOR, HONEY NUT

CHEERIOS HONEY NUT scores 43/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its overall nutritional profile.

  • This CHEERIOS product has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional rating.
  • A single serving contains 23.75g of added sugar, contributing to a significant penalty.
  • It provides 7.11g of fiber per 100g, a positive nutritional contribution.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal is significantly higher in added sugars and sodium.
  • Consider portion control to manage the intake of added sugars and sodium.
  • Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
8.93g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.75g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (8.9g)+4
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.8g)-25
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 43

CHEERIOS HONEY NUT receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is the high amount of added sugar, totaling 23.75g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. While the product is made with whole grain oats, the addition of ingredients like sugar, honey, and brown sugar syrup contributes to this high sugar load. The cereal does receive bonuses for its fiber content (7.11g per 100g) and protein (8.93g per 100g). Additionally, it is fortified with several micronutrients, including significant amounts of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which add to its positive score. However, a penalty is also applied due to its NOVA class 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food. The sodium content of 571.43mg per 100g also contributes a minor penalty. Compared to plain rolled oats, which serve as a whole-grain breakfast baseline, this CHEERIOS product contains considerably more added sugars and sodium.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in cheerios honey nut sweetened whole grain oat cereal with real honey & natural almond flavor, honey nut actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Whole Grains and Fiber

This product lists whole grain oats as its first ingredient, contributing to its fiber content of 7.11g per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including whole grains in the diet is associated with various health benefits, and this cereal can contribute to meeting daily whole grain recommendations, especially when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced breakfast.

Fortified with Essential Micronutrients

CHEERIOS HONEY NUT is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, providing significant percentages of the Daily Value for certain nutrients. For example, it offers 90% DV for iron, 122% DV for zinc, and 223% DV for vitamin B12 per 100g. These micronutrients play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including energy metabolism and immune support. Fortified cereals can be a convenient way to increase the intake of these essential vitamins and minerals.

Contribution to Bone Health Nutrients

The cereal provides 27% DV for calcium and 17% DV for magnesium per 100g. Both calcium and magnesium are vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. While not a primary source of these nutrients, this product can contribute to daily intake, particularly when consumed with milk, which further enhances the calcium content of the meal. Adequate intake of these minerals is important across all life stages.

How to eat it

CHEERIOS HONEY NUT is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. It can also be eaten as a dry snack. Common portion sizes are around 30-40g, but it's easy to over-pour, leading to higher intake of added sugars and sodium.

Pair with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) and fresh fruit to add natural sweetness and further boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Measure your portion size to manage the intake of added sugars and sodium, as a 1-container serving is 30g.
Combine with a source of protein, such as a handful of nuts or a spoonful of Greek yogurt, to enhance satiety and balance the meal's macronutrients.
Use as a topping for plain yogurt or oatmeal in smaller quantities to add flavor and crunch without relying on it as the sole component.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals monitoring their sugar intake should be aware of the 23.75g of added sugar per 100g in this product, which is a significant amount. The ingredient list includes 'natural almond flavor', which may be a concern for individuals with almond allergies, despite almonds not being a primary ingredient. The sodium content of 571.43mg per 100g should also be considered by those on sodium-restricted diets. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it contains multiple ingredients beyond whole grains, including various forms of sugar and added vitamins and minerals.

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Reader questions
Is CHEERIOS HONEY NUT healthy?
CHEERIOS HONEY NUT has a FoodScore of 43/100, which is considered 'Poor'. While it provides whole grains, fiber, and several fortified vitamins and minerals, its high added sugar content is a significant nutritional drawback. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does CHEERIOS HONEY NUT compare to plain rolled oats?
Compared to plain rolled oats, CHEERIOS HONEY NUT contains significantly more added sugar (23.75g vs. 0g) and sodium (571.43mg vs. negligible). Plain rolled oats offer similar fiber and whole grain benefits without the added sugars and processing. For a lower sugar option, consider plain Quaker Oats.
What is 'natural almond flavor' in the ingredient list?
The 'natural almond flavor' is an ingredient added to provide an almond taste profile. While it contributes to the product's flavor, it's important for individuals with almond allergies to note its presence, even if whole almonds are not explicitly listed as a main ingredient.
What is a recommended portion size for CHEERIOS HONEY NUT?
The serving size is 1 container, which is 30g. This portion provides a specific amount of calories, added sugar, and sodium. Adhering to this portion size can help manage your intake of these components, especially the 23.75g of added sugar per 100g.
Can CHEERIOS HONEY NUT be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its calorie density (375 calories per 100g) and high added sugar content, CHEERIOS HONEY NUT should be consumed mindfully if you are managing your weight. Portion control is key, and pairing it with high-protein and high-fiber foods can help with satiety.

Explore more

CategoryAll grains & breads BrandAll Cheerios (General Mills) SKUs Competitor · 67/100365 EVERYDAY VALUE MACARONI FUSILLI PRODUCT Competitor · 67/100365 EVERYDAY VALUE PENNE RIGATE Head-to-headCHEERIOS HONEY NUT SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH REAL HONEY & NATURAL ALMOND FLAVOR, HONEY NUT vs. 365 EVERYDAY VALUE MACARONI FUSILLI PRODUCT Head-to-headCHEERIOS HONEY NUT SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH REAL HONEY & NATURAL ALMOND FLAVOR, HONEY NUT vs. 365 EVERYDAY VALUE PENNE RIGATE Head-to-headCHEERIOS HONEY NUT SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH REAL HONEY & NATURAL ALMOND FLAVOR, HONEY NUT vs. BETTER OATS CINNAMON ROLL 100 CALORIES INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, CINNAMON ROLL Head-to-headCHEERIOS HONEY NUT SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH REAL HONEY & NATURAL ALMOND FLAVOR, HONEY NUT vs. BETTER OATS MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR FLAVORED INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX, MAPLE & BROWN SUGAR

Data & references