FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorgrainDISNEY· 1 cup

DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS, ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS

DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS scores 30/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**. The product does provide some fortified micronutrients.

  • This DISNEY cereal receives a FoodScore of 30/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • A single serving contains 23.31g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal has substantially more added sugar and sodium.
  • Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
  • Scores -17 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.31g
47% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.3g)-25
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 30

DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS receives a FoodScore of 30 out of 100, largely driven by its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. The product contains 23.31g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and dextrose contribute to this high amount. Additionally, its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating an ultra-processed food, results in a -10 point penalty. The cereal also contains 500mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -2 point penalty. On the positive side, the cereal gains points from its fiber content (3.3g, +3 points) and protein (6.67g, +2 points). It is also fortified with several micronutrients, including iron (83% DV), zinc (45% DV), Vitamin A (186% DV), Vitamin C (56% DV), Vitamin B12 (208% DV), and Riboflavin, which collectively add +12 points. However, these bonuses are insufficient to offset the substantial penalties from added sugar and processing. In comparison to a baseline of plain rolled oats, this DISNEY cereal has significantly more added sugar and sodium, and is less rich in naturally occurring fiber.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in disney sweetened cereal with island marshmallows, island marshmallows actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Fortified Micronutrients

This cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, making it a source of nutrients that might otherwise be lacking in some diets. Per 100g, it provides 83% of the Daily Value for iron, 45% for zinc, 186% for Vitamin A, 56% for Vitamin C, and 208% for Vitamin B12. These nutrients play various roles in the body, such as supporting immune function, vision, and energy metabolism. While not a primary source of all nutrients, the fortification can contribute to daily intake goals, especially for individuals who may not consume a wide variety of whole foods.

Provides Some Fiber

Despite its overall nutritional profile, DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS does offer a modest amount of fiber, with 3.3g per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. The presence of whole grain oat flour and whole wheat flour in the ingredient list contributes to this fiber content. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a positive aspect compared to highly refined cereals with minimal fiber.

Quick Energy Source

With 400 calories per 100g and a significant amount of carbohydrates, this cereal can serve as a rapid source of energy. The combination of simple sugars and complex carbohydrates provides fuel for immediate activities. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as active children or those with high energy demands, this product can offer readily available energy. However, the high added sugar content means this energy comes with a trade-off in overall nutritional quality.

How to eat it

This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. It's common for individuals, especially children, to eat a bowl as a quick meal. A standard serving size is 1 cup, and it's important to be mindful of this portion due to the high added sugar content.

To reduce the added sugar impact, combine a smaller portion of this cereal with plain, unsweetened whole-grain oats.
Pair with a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg to help moderate blood sugar response.
Add fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced banana, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake without adding more sugar.
Use this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to limit regular intake of added sugars.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS, which is 23.31g per 100g. Regular consumption of foods high in added sugars can contribute to an excessive caloric intake and may impact blood sugar levels. The product also contains artificial colors such as Blue 1, Yellow 5, Red 40, and Yellow 6, which some individuals, particularly parents of young children, may prefer to avoid. The ingredient list includes BHT for freshness, a synthetic antioxidant. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of whole grain oat flour and whole wheat flour, indicating gluten-containing grains. The cereal also contains high oleic soybean oil, which is a common allergen for those with soy sensitivities.

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Reader questions
Is DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS healthy?
This DISNEY cereal scores 30/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals like iron and Vitamin B12, its high added sugar content (23.31g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food significantly detract from its overall nutritional quality. It is best consumed in moderation.
How does DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS compare to Cheerios?
Compared to a plain whole-grain cereal like original Cheerios, DISNEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH ISLAND MARSHMALLOWS has a significantly higher amount of added sugar and is more processed. While both may be fortified, Cheerios generally offers more whole grains and less added sugar per serving, making it a more nutritionally favorable choice for daily consumption.
What is 'degerminated yellow corn meal' in the ingredients?
Degerminated yellow corn meal is corn that has had the germ and bran removed. This process extends shelf life but also removes much of the fiber and some nutrients naturally present in whole corn. This is a common ingredient in many processed cereals and contributes to the product's NOVA class 4 designation.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. Given the high added sugar and calorie content, adhering to this portion size is important for moderation. For children, a smaller portion might be more appropriate, especially when combined with other breakfast components like fruit or yogurt to enhance nutritional balance.
Can this cereal be part of a balanced diet?
While this cereal is not a primary source of balanced nutrition, it can be included in a balanced diet as an occasional treat. To mitigate its impact, pair it with nutrient-dense foods such as fresh fruit, nuts, or dairy products. Focus on consuming a variety of whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your meals.

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Data & references