CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT scores 59/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its fortification with essential micronutrients like iron and calcium.
This CREAM OF WHEAT product scores 59/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a significant 157% DV of iron and 61% DV of calcium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it contains refined ingredients.
Compared to generic dairy, this hot cereal offers distinct micronutrient fortification.
Consider pairing with fruit or nuts to enhance fiber and healthy fat content.
Scores +26 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
9.09g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3g)+3
Protein (9.1g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Riboflavin)+6
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 59
CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT achieves a FoodScore of 59/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of beneficial fortification and its processed nature. The product receives bonus points for its protein content, with 9.1g per 100g, and fiber, providing 3g. A significant positive contributor to its score is the micronutrient fortification, particularly the high levels of calcium (61% DV) and iron (157% DV), along with riboflavin. The ingredient list highlights ferric orthophosphate (iron) and calcium carbonate as key fortifying agents. However, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty of 5 points. While it contains no added sugar, total fat, or sodium, its primary ingredient, wheat farina, is a refined grain. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer natural calcium and protein, CREAM OF WHEAT provides a different nutritional profile, emphasizing fortified vitamins and minerals rather than inherent dairy nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cream of wheat hot cereal, hot actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This CREAM OF WHEAT product is a good source of calcium, providing 61% of the Daily Value per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone density throughout life. Incorporating this fortified cereal into a balanced diet can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, especially for individuals who may not consume sufficient dairy or other calcium-rich foods.
Aids in Iron Intake
CREAM OF WHEAT is notably fortified with iron, delivering an impressive 157% of the Daily Value per 100g, primarily from ferric orthophosphate. Iron is vital for the formation of red blood cells and for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. This makes the cereal a practical option for individuals looking to boost their iron consumption, particularly those with higher iron needs.
Provides B Vitamins for Energy Metabolism
This hot cereal is fortified with several B vitamins, including niacinamide (B3), thiamine mononitrate (B1), pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6), and riboflavin (B2). These vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism, helping the body convert food into usable energy. They are also important for nerve function and maintaining healthy skin. The inclusion of these B vitamins contributes to the overall nutritional value of the product, supporting various bodily functions.
CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT scores 59/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its fortification with essential micronutrients like iron and calcium.
How to eat it
CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT is typically consumed as a warm breakfast, often prepared with water or milk. It's a quick-cooking option that can be a comforting start to the day. A common portion is 3 tablespoons dry, which expands significantly when cooked.
To boost the nutritional profile, prepare CREAM OF WHEAT with low-fat milk or a fortified plant-based milk instead of water.
Enhance fiber and micronutrient intake by stirring in fresh or frozen berries, sliced banana, or a small handful of nuts after cooking.
For a more balanced meal, pair your bowl of hot cereal with a source of lean protein like eggs or Greek yogurt.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while the dry serving is small, the cooked volume can be substantial, so measure to manage calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT includes wheat farina and defatted wheat germ, indicating that this product contains wheat and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. The product is fortified with papain, an enzyme derived from papaya, which is generally recognized as safe but could potentially cause issues for individuals with a papaya allergy, though this is rare. Overall, for most healthy individuals without specific allergies to wheat or papaya, this product does not present significant cautions regarding additives or common allergens beyond wheat.
CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT scores 59/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is fortified with significant amounts of iron and calcium, and provides some protein and fiber. However, it is a refined grain product (NOVA class 3 processed). Its healthfulness depends on how it's prepared and what it's paired with, as it contains no added sugar or sodium.
How does CREAM OF WHEAT compare to oatmeal?
Compared to plain rolled oats, CREAM OF WHEAT is a more refined grain product. While CREAM OF WHEAT is heavily fortified with iron and calcium, plain oatmeal, such as Quaker Oats, naturally contains more fiber and a broader spectrum of naturally occurring micronutrients. Both can be part of a healthy breakfast, but oatmeal typically offers more whole grain benefits.
What is wheat farina?
Wheat farina, the primary ingredient in CREAM OF WHEAT, is a type of milled wheat that consists of the endosperm of the wheat kernel. It is a refined grain, meaning the bran and germ have been removed. This process gives it a fine texture and quick cooking time, but also removes some of the natural fiber and nutrients, which are then added back through fortification.
What is a typical serving size for CREAM OF WHEAT?
The declared serving size for CREAM OF WHEAT HOT CEREAL, HOT is 3 tablespoons (dry). When prepared, this yields a larger volume. It's important to measure your dry portion to accurately track your intake of calories and nutrients, especially if you are managing your weight or specific dietary needs.
Can I add fruit to CREAM OF WHEAT?
Yes, adding fruit is an excellent way to enhance the nutritional value of CREAM OF WHEAT. Stirring in fresh or frozen berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples can significantly increase the fiber content and add natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. This also contributes additional vitamins and antioxidants.