COCOA PEBBLES CHOCOLATE FLAVORED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA, CHOCOLATE
COCOA PEBBLES Chocolate Flavored Rice Cereal scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore. The primary factor driving this low score is its **high amount of added sugar**.
COCOA PEBBLES scores 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
A 100g serving contains 33.3g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed.
It provides notable amounts of iron (42% DV) and Vitamin B12 (554% DV) per 100g.
Scores -4 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2.81g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
5.56g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
33.3g
67% of Daily Value
Sodium
611.11mg
27% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.8g)+2
Protein (5.6g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+12
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What holds it back
Added sugar (33.3g)-25
Sodium (611.1mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
COCOA PEBBLES Chocolate Flavored Rice Cereal receives a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its significant added sugar content, with 33.3g per 100g serving, incurring a substantial penalty. The product's classification as NOVA 4 also contributes a penalty due to its ultra-processed nature, indicating a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients. While it does receive some bonus points for its fiber content (2.8g per 100g) and protein (5.6g per 100g), these are outweighed by the penalties. Furthermore, the cereal is fortified with several micronutrients, including iron, zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, folate, and riboflavin, which collectively add 12 bonus points. However, the high sodium content of 611.11mg per 100g also results in a penalty. Ingredients like sugar and caramel color are indicative of its processed composition. In contrast, a reference baseline like plain sparkling water contains no added sugar, sodium, or processed ingredients, highlighting the nutritional differences.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cocoa pebbles chocolate flavored rice cereal with real cocoa, chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Micronutrients
COCOA PEBBLES is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals. A 100g serving provides 42% of the Daily Value for iron and a substantial 554% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12. It also offers significant amounts of Vitamin A (771% DV), zinc (57% DV), and folate (83% DV). These added nutrients can help address potential dietary gaps, particularly for individuals who may not consume enough of these specific micronutrients from other food sources. The fortification helps to ensure a baseline intake of these key vitamins and minerals.
Provides Energy
With 388.89 calories per 100g, COCOA PEBBLES provides a quick source of energy. The primary energy sources are carbohydrates, largely from rice and added sugar. This can be useful for individuals needing a rapid energy boost, such as before certain physical activities or as part of a quick breakfast. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile and balance this energy intake with other nutrient-dense foods to support sustained energy levels and overall health.
Contains Dietary Fiber
A 100g serving of COCOA PEBBLES contains 2.81g of dietary fiber. While not a high-fiber food, this contribution can still play a role in daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and support gut function. Including sources of fiber in the diet is generally beneficial, and this product offers a modest amount that can contribute to the recommended daily intake when consumed as part of a varied diet.
COCOA PEBBLES Chocolate Flavored Rice Cereal scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore. The primary factor driving this low score is its high amount of added sugar.
How to eat it
COCOA PEBBLES is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. A common serving size is 1 cup, which is approximately 36g. It is generally eaten cold, sometimes as a quick snack. Due to its high added sugar content, portion control is key.
To reduce the impact of added sugar, consider mixing COCOA PEBBLES with a plain, unsweetened cereal.
Pair with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a serving of Greek yogurt, to help increase satiety.
Measure your portion size carefully to avoid overconsumption, especially given the calorie density.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple to manage overall sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in COCOA PEBBLES, which is 33.3g per 100g. This can contribute to excessive sugar intake if not consumed in moderation, potentially impacting blood sugar levels. The product also contains canola oil and BHT, a preservative added to maintain freshness. While BHT is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals prefer to limit their intake of artificial preservatives. The sodium content is also notable at 611.11mg per 100g, which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management. The ingredient list also includes 'natural and artificial flavor', which are common in ultra-processed foods.
COCOA PEBBLES scores 28/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it is fortified with several vitamins and minerals like iron and Vitamin B12, its high added sugar content (33.3g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food significantly lower its nutritional value. It is best considered an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does COCOA PEBBLES compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, lower-sugar cereal like Cheerios, COCOA PEBBLES has significantly more added sugar and is more highly processed. For instance, a typical serving of Cheerios has much less added sugar and is made primarily from whole grain oats. COCOA PEBBLES offers fortification, but its overall nutritional profile is less favorable due to the sugar and processing.
What is 'cocoa (processed with alkali)'?
'Cocoa (processed with alkali)' refers to cocoa powder that has been treated with an alkaline solution, often potassium carbonate. This process, also known as Dutching, reduces the acidity of the cocoa, making it milder in flavor and darker in color. While it can slightly reduce the antioxidant content compared to natural cocoa, it is a common processing method and generally considered safe for consumption. It contributes to the chocolate flavor of the cereal.
What is a reasonable portion size for COCOA PEBBLES?
The declared serving size for COCOA PEBBLES is 1 cup (36g). Sticking to this portion size is important to manage the intake of calories, added sugar, and sodium. Consuming larger portions would proportionally increase the intake of these components, making it more challenging to maintain a balanced dietary pattern. Consider pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods.
Can COCOA PEBBLES be part of a balanced diet?
Due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature, COCOA PEBBLES can be part of a balanced diet only when consumed in strict moderation and as an occasional item. It should not be a staple food. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods for most meals and snacks is crucial for overall health, with products like this reserved for infrequent enjoyment to limit unnecessary sugar and sodium intake.