CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA
CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar.
This cereal has a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 31.38g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
The product is fortified with 35% DV iron and 47% DV zinc per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from plain rolled oats.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -24 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.45g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.38g
63% of Daily Value
Sodium
517.24mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+10
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.4g)-25
Sodium (517.2mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 23
CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA receives a FoodScore of 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the high amount of added sugar, at 31.38g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, contributing another penalty. The sodium content of 517.24mg per 100g also results in a minor penalty. On the positive side, the cereal is fortified with several micronutrients, including iron (6.21mg, 35% DV), zinc (5.17mg, 47% DV), Vitamin A (288% DV), Vitamin B12 (215% DV), and Riboflavin, which collectively provide a bonus. However, these bonuses are not sufficient to offset the penalties from added sugar and processing. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are a whole grain with no added sugar or significant sodium, this CLOVER VALLEY cereal presents a less nutritionally dense option due to its ingredient profile, including sugar and corn syrup as primary sweeteners.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in clover valley cocoa bites sweetened rice cereal with real cocoa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This cereal is fortified with several important vitamins and minerals. It provides 35% of the Daily Value for iron and 47% for zinc per 100g serving, which are crucial for immune function and red blood cell formation. Additionally, it offers high amounts of Vitamin A and Vitamin B12, supporting vision and neurological health. These fortifications can help address potential dietary gaps, especially for individuals who may not consume enough of these specific nutrients from other sources, making it a convenient way to boost intake of these particular micronutrients.
Quick Energy Source
With 413.79 calories per 100g and a significant amount of carbohydrates from rice and added sugars, CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES can provide a rapid source of energy. This can be beneficial for individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as before a short burst of activity or as a quick snack. The combination of simple carbohydrates allows for fast digestion and absorption, making the energy readily available to the body. However, it is important to balance this with other nutrient-dense foods.
Palatability and Dietary Adherence
For some individuals, the enjoyable taste of a sweetened cereal like CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES can contribute to dietary satisfaction and adherence. While not a primary health food, incorporating small portions of enjoyable foods can make a healthy eating pattern more sustainable. It can serve as a treat or a component of a balanced breakfast when paired with other nutrient-rich foods, helping to prevent feelings of deprivation that can lead to less healthy choices overall.
CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar.
How to eat it
This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. A common serving size is 0.75 cup. Due to its nutritional profile, it is best enjoyed in moderation and as part of a larger, more balanced meal.
Pair with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) and a handful of berries to add fiber and reduce overall sugar impact.
Combine a smaller portion of CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES with plain rolled oats to dilute the added sugar and increase whole grain intake.
Use as an occasional topping for yogurt or fruit, rather than a standalone large bowl, to control portion size and added sugar intake.
Consider this cereal as a dessert or treat rather than a daily breakfast staple to manage overall sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES, which is 31.38g per 100g. Regular consumption of foods high in added sugar can contribute to excessive calorie intake and may impact blood sugar levels. The ingredient list also includes caramel color, which some individuals choose to limit in their diet. While the product is fortified with several micronutrients, it lacks fiber. Individuals monitoring sodium intake should note the 517.24mg per 100g. There are no common allergens explicitly declared beyond what might be present in the natural and artificial flavor components, but consumers with specific sensitivities should review the full ingredient list carefully.
Is CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL healthy?
CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES SWEETENED RICE CEREAL scores 23/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category on FoodScore. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals, it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like plain rolled oats, CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES has significantly more added sugar (31.38g per 100g) and is ultra-processed. Even compared to other sweetened rice cereals like Kellogg's Cocoa Krispies, the added sugar content is comparable or higher. It offers fortification but lacks the fiber and whole grain benefits of less processed options.
What is 'cocoa (processed with alkali)'?
Cocoa processed with alkali, also known as Dutch-processed cocoa, means the cocoa beans have been treated with an alkaline solution to reduce their acidity. This process results in a milder flavor and darker color. Nutritionally, it may slightly reduce the flavonoid content compared to natural cocoa, but it is a common ingredient in many chocolate-flavored products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 0.75 cup. Given the high added sugar content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even a smaller one, especially if consuming it frequently. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods can help create a more balanced meal.
Can this cereal be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its high calorie and added sugar density (413.79 calories per 100g), CLOVER VALLEY COCOA BITES may not be the most suitable choice for a weight management plan if consumed regularly or in large portions. It can be included occasionally as a treat, but focusing on lower-calorie, higher-fiber options would be more beneficial for satiety and nutrient intake.