HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC, OAT BRAN FLAKES BAKED MULTIGRAIN CEREAL
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes scores 54/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its **moderate fiber and protein content** balanced against **added sugars** and its ultra-processed nature.
This cereal has a FoodScore of 54/100, placing it in the Decent category.
It provides 10.2g of fiber and 12.2g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A notable concern is the 11.42g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from plain rolled oats.
Consider portion sizes to manage added sugar intake, especially if consumed daily.
Scores +7 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes achieves a FoodScore of 54 out of 100, placing it in the Decent category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and less favorable components. The product receives positive points for its substantial fiber content, providing 10.2g per 100g, and a decent protein contribution of 12.2g per 100g. Additionally, it is fortified with several micronutrients, including iron (20% DV), Vitamin C (61% DV), and Vitamin B12 (102% DV), which further boost its score. However, the presence of added sugars, specifically 11.42g per 100g from ingredients like organic evaporated cane juice and organic agave syrup, leads to a significant penalty. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, also results in a deduction. Compared to plain rolled oats, which serve as a whole-grain breakfast baseline, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes contains more added sugar and is more processed, despite its fiber and protein contributions.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley organic, oat bran flakes baked multigrain cereal actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health with Fiber
This cereal is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 10.2g per 100g. Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and can contribute to feelings of fullness. The combination of organic whole oats and organic oat bran in HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC contributes to this fiber content, which is higher than many refined grain cereals. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet supports overall gut function.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 12.2g of protein per 100g, this product can help contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is vital for muscle maintenance and repair, and for producing enzymes and hormones. While not a primary protein source, incorporating cereals like HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC into a balanced breakfast can add to the total protein consumed throughout the day, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods.
Fortified with Key Vitamins
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes is fortified with several important micronutrients, including Vitamin B12 (102% DV), Vitamin C (61% DV), and Iron (20% DV) per 100g. These nutrients play various roles in the body, such as supporting energy metabolism (B vitamins) and immune function (Vitamin C). Fortification can help address potential dietary gaps, making it a more nutrient-dense option than unfortified cereals.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes scores 54/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its moderate fiber and protein content balanced against added sugars and its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk or a milk alternative. A common portion is 1 cup, which is 38.77g based on the provided serving size. Be mindful of added sugars from both the cereal and any additional sweeteners.
Pair with unsweetened milk or yogurt to avoid adding more sugar to your meal.
Add a handful of berries or sliced fruit for natural sweetness and additional fiber and vitamins.
Mix with a small amount of nuts or seeds to boost healthy fats and protein content.
Consider using a smaller portion, such as half a cup, if you are monitoring your added sugar intake.
This cereal can also be used as a crunchy topping for yogurt or smoothies.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes, which is 11.42g per 100g. While the product contains beneficial fiber and protein, the presence of organic evaporated cane juice and organic agave syrup contributes to this sugar load. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption, should factor this into their dietary choices. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing minimally processed foods. No major allergens are explicitly declared beyond the oat and barley ingredients, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes scores 54/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers good amounts of fiber and protein, and is fortified with several vitamins and iron. However, it also contains 11.42g of added sugar per 100g and is considered ultra-processed. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and portion control.
How does HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes compare to plain rolled oats?
Compared to plain rolled oats, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes has significantly more added sugar due to ingredients like organic evaporated cane juice and organic agave syrup. While both offer fiber, plain rolled oats are a whole, unprocessed grain, whereas this product is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed cereal. For a less processed option, plain rolled oats are preferable.
What is 'organic evaporated cane juice' and 'organic agave syrup' in this cereal?
Both 'organic evaporated cane juice' and 'organic agave syrup' are forms of added sugar. They contribute to the 11.42g of added sugar per 100g in HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes. While they are organic, their nutritional impact is similar to other types of added sugars, contributing calories without significant micronutrients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (38.77g). This portion would provide approximately 4.4g of added sugar. For individuals mindful of their sugar intake, starting with a half-cup portion and adding fruit for sweetness can be a good strategy. Always consider your total daily sugar consumption.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the first ingredient listed is 'organic whole oats,' indicating that whole grains are present. The product also contains organic oat bran, organic barley flour, and organic brown rice flour, which contribute to its grain content. The fiber content of 10.2g per 100g is a positive indicator of its grain composition.
How does this compare to other popular cereals like Cheerios?
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Oat Bran Flakes (54/100) generally offers more protein and fiber per 100g than original Cheerios, which typically has less added sugar but also less fiber and protein. Both are fortified and considered processed cereals. The choice depends on whether you prioritize higher fiber/protein or lower added sugar.