FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainCINNAMON PEBBLES· 3/4 cup

CINNAMON PEBBLES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON, CINNAMON

CINNAMON PEBBLES scores 17/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore. The primary factor for this low score is its high content of added sugar, contributing significantly to its ultra-processed classification.

  • CINNAMON PEBBLES scores 17/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
  • This cereal contains 25g of added sugar per 100g, a major nutritional concern.
  • It provides 72% DV of iron and 39% DV of zinc per 100g, contributing to micronutrient intake.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this product has significantly more added sugar and sodium.
  • Scores -30 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
25g
50% of Daily Value
Sodium
607.14mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (25g)-25
Sodium (607.1mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 17

CINNAMON PEBBLES receives a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile. A significant penalty of -25 points is applied for its high added sugar content, which stands at 25g per 100g. This amount is substantial and contributes to the product's classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), incurring an additional -10 point penalty. The sodium content, at 607.14mg per 100g, also results in a -2 point penalty. While the product does offer some micronutrient fortification, specifically providing 72% DV of iron and 39% DV of zinc per 100g, which adds +4 bonus points, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties. The ingredient list begins with rice and sugar, indicating that sugar is a prominent component. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, CINNAMON PEBBLES contains no fiber and a considerably higher amount of added sugar and sodium, making it a less favorable choice for a regular breakfast.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in cinnamon pebbles sweetened rice cereal with cinnamon, cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

CINNAMON PEBBLES is fortified with iron, providing 12.89mg per 100g, which is 72% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. Including fortified cereals can help individuals, especially those at risk of iron deficiency, meet their daily iron requirements as part of a balanced diet.

Source of Zinc

This cereal also serves as a source of zinc, offering 4.29mg per 100g, or 39% of the Daily Value. Zinc plays a vital role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. For individuals seeking to increase their intake of this important trace mineral, fortified cereals like CINNAMON PEBBLES can contribute to their daily needs.

Convenient Breakfast Option

For individuals seeking a quick and easy breakfast, CINNAMON PEBBLES offers a convenient option that requires minimal preparation. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its ease of use can be beneficial for those with limited time in the mornings. It can be paired with other foods to enhance its overall nutritional value.

How to eat it

CINNAMON PEBBLES is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. A common portion size is 3/4 cup. Due to its high added sugar content, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and consider how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.

Pair with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as Greek yogurt or nuts, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Combine with unsweetened fruit, like berries, to add natural fiber and vitamins without additional sugar.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to limit intake of added sugars and sodium.
Consider mixing with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to dilute the overall sugar content per serving.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for CINNAMON PEBBLES relates to its high added sugar content, which is 25g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with careful consideration of portion sizes and overall carbohydrate intake. The ingredient list also includes caramel color, which some consumers may prefer to avoid. While the product is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, the overall nutritional density is low due to the significant presence of sugar and the absence of fiber. There are no common allergens explicitly declared beyond the general ingredients, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full label.

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Reader questions
Is CINNAMON PEBBLES healthy?
CINNAMON PEBBLES scores 17/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is largely due to its high added sugar content (25g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with iron and zinc, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional factors.
How does CINNAMON PEBBLES compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain cereal like Cheerios, CINNAMON PEBBLES has significantly more added sugar and no fiber. For example, a serving of original Cheerios provides whole grains and less added sugar. This product is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple for optimal nutrition.
What is 'ferric orthophosphate' in the ingredient list?
Ferric orthophosphate is a form of iron added to foods for fortification. In CINNAMON PEBBLES, it serves as the source of iron, contributing 72% of the Daily Value per 100g. This is a common practice in cereals to help consumers meet their iron requirements.
What is a reasonable portion size for CINNAMON PEBBLES?
The suggested serving size is 3/4 cup. Given the high added sugar content, adhering to this portion size and considering it an occasional food can help manage intake. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods can also help create a more balanced meal.
Can CINNAMON PEBBLES be part of a balanced diet?
While CINNAMON PEBBLES is high in added sugar and ultra-processed, it can be included in a balanced diet in moderation. It is important to balance its consumption with other foods that are rich in fiber, protein, and micronutrients to ensure overall dietary completeness.

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Data & references