FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainFRUITY PEBBLES· 1 cup

FRUITY PEBBLES MARSHMALLOW SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, MARSHMALLOW

FRUITY PEBBLES MARSHMALLOW SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS receives a FoodScore of 23/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This FRUITY PEBBLES cereal scores 23/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
  • It contains 45g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a breakfast cereal.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal offers minimal fiber and significantly more added sugar.
  • 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
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45g
90% of Daily Value
Sodium
600mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+10
What holds it back
Added sugar (45g)-25
Sodium (600mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 23

FRUITY PEBBLES MARSHMALLOW SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS earned 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, contributing 45g per 100g, which resulted in a substantial penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and dextrose are prominent early in the ingredient list, indicating a high concentration of sweeteners. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 4, meaning ultra-processed, incurred a -10 point penalty. While the cereal is fortified with several micronutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, and Zinc, which provided a +10 point bonus, these benefits do not outweigh the penalties from added sugar and processing. The sodium content of 600mg per 100g also contributed a minor -2 point penalty. In comparison to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are a whole grain with no added sugar or significant processing, FRUITY PEBBLES contains no fiber and a very high amount of added sugars.

Health benefits

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

Source of Fortified Vitamins and Minerals

FRUITY PEBBLES cereal is fortified with several essential micronutrients. Per 100g, it provides 487% DV of Vitamin A, 563% DV of Vitamin B12, and 34% DV of Zinc. These vitamins and minerals play roles in various bodily functions, including immune health, vision, and energy metabolism. Fortification helps address potential dietary gaps, especially for individuals who may not consume a wide variety of nutrient-dense foods regularly.

Quick Energy Source

Due to its high carbohydrate and sugar content, FRUITY PEBBLES cereal can provide a rapid source of energy. With 400 calories per 100g, it can quickly replenish glycogen stores, which might be relevant for individuals needing immediate energy, such as after intense physical activity. However, this energy boost is often followed by a rapid drop in blood sugar due to the lack of fiber and high sugar content.

Convenient Meal Option

As a ready-to-eat cereal, FRUITY PEBBLES offers convenience for breakfast or a snack. It requires minimal preparation, making it a quick option for busy mornings. While not a nutrient-dense choice, its ease of access can be a factor for individuals seeking a fast meal solution. Pairing it with other foods can help improve its overall nutritional profile.

How to eat it

FRUITY PEBBLES is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal with milk. A common portion size is 1 cup, which is about 30g. Given its high sugar content, it's important to consider how this product fits into an overall dietary pattern, especially for regular consumption.

To reduce the overall sugar intake, consider mixing FRUITY PEBBLES with an unsweetened cereal like plain rice puffs or shredded wheat.
Pair this cereal with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as Greek yogurt or nuts, to help balance blood sugar levels and increase satiety.
Use FRUITY PEBBLES as an occasional topping for yogurt or fruit, rather than a standalone large serving, to control portion size and added sugar.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a smaller serving can help manage the intake of added sugars and calories.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high levels of added sugar in FRUITY PEBBLES, which is 45g per 100g. Regular consumption of foods with high added sugar can contribute to increased calorie intake and may impact blood sugar management. The product also contains artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. BHT is added as a preservative to maintain freshness. Individuals with sensitivities to artificial colors or those monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list also notes canola and/or soybean oil, which are common seed oils.

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Reader questions
Is FRUITY PEBBLES MARSHMALLOW SWEETENED RICE CEREAL healthy?
FRUITY PEBBLES MARSHMALLOW SWEETENED RICE CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is not a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content (45g per 100g) and ultra-processed nature are significant nutritional drawbacks. While fortified with some vitamins and minerals, these do not outweigh the negative aspects for overall dietary health.
How does FRUITY PEBBLES compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like Cheerios, FRUITY PEBBLES has significantly more added sugar and no fiber. For example, a serving of plain Cheerios typically contains 1g of sugar and 4g of fiber, while FRUITY PEBBLES has 45g of added sugar and 0g of fiber per 100g. This makes FRUITY PEBBLES a less favorable option for daily breakfast.
What are the main ingredients in FRUITY PEBBLES?
The main ingredients in FRUITY PEBBLES are rice, sugar, and marshmallows. The presence of multiple forms of sugar, including sugar, corn syrup, and dextrose, contributes to its high added sugar content. The cereal also contains artificial colors and artificial flavor.
What is a reasonable portion size for FRUITY PEBBLES?
The suggested serving size for FRUITY PEBBLES is 1 cup (about 30g). Given its high added sugar, it's advisable to stick to this portion or even a smaller amount if consumed. For a more balanced meal, consider pairing it with protein and fiber-rich foods.
Can FRUITY PEBBLES be part of a balanced diet?
FRUITY PEBBLES can be included in a balanced diet as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. Due to its high added sugar and ultra-processed classification, frequent consumption may make it challenging to meet dietary guidelines for sugar intake. Moderation and pairing with nutrient-dense foods are key.

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Data & references