HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES, REAL STRAWBERRIES
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This cereal received a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 22g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal has substantially more added sugar and sodium.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -19 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
4.9g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
7.32g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
22g
44% of Daily Value
Sodium
414.63mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.9g)+5
Protein (7.3g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Folate)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (22g)-25
Sodium (414.6mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES received a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this score is the high amount of added sugar, which stands at 22g per 100g. This significantly contributes to the negative scoring, incurring a -25 penalty. The presence of multiple sugar sources such as SUGAR, CORN SYRUP, MOLASSES, and HONEY early in the ingredient list reflects this. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed) results in a -10 penalty, indicating a complex manufacturing process and the inclusion of industrial ingredients. While the cereal does offer some positive attributes, including 4.9g of fiber (+5 bonus) and 7.3g of protein (+3 bonus) per 100g, these are outweighed by the penalties. Micronutrients like iron (73% DV), zinc (50% DV), and folate (15% DV) provide a +6 bonus. However, the 414.63mg of sodium per 100g also contributes a -1 penalty. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS contains considerably more added sugar and sodium, making it a less optimal choice for daily consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in honey bunches of oats cereal with real strawberries, real strawberries actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES is fortified with several important micronutrients. A 100g serving provides 73% of the Daily Value for iron and 50% for zinc, both crucial for immune function and energy metabolism. It also supplies 15% of the Daily Value for folate, which is important for cell growth and development. For individuals who may struggle to meet these nutrient requirements through other dietary sources, this cereal can contribute to their daily intake, though it should be considered within the context of its overall nutritional profile.
Contribution to Daily Fiber Intake
This cereal provides 4.9g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber goals. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can be a useful addition to a varied diet, especially for individuals who may not consume enough fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The fiber content comes from ingredients like WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT and WHOLE GRAIN ROLLED OATS.
Provides Protein for Satiety
With 7.3g of protein per 100g, HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS offers a moderate amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a role in satiety, helping you feel full and satisfied after a meal. While not a primary protein source, this contribution can be beneficial when combined with other protein-rich foods, such as milk or yogurt, to create a more balanced breakfast that may help manage hunger throughout the morning.
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Cereal is a common breakfast item in the US, often consumed with milk. A typical serving is 1 cup, but it's easy to pour more, leading to increased intake of added sugars and sodium. This product is generally eaten cold, sometimes with added fruit.
Combine with plain milk or unsweetened plant-based milk to avoid adding more sugar.
Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to boost fiber and nutrient content without extra sweeteners.
Use this cereal as a topping for plain yogurt or cottage cheese to add crunch and a small amount of whole grains.
Be mindful of portion sizes; measure out the recommended 1 cup serving to manage added sugar intake.
Consider alternating with less processed breakfast options like oatmeal or whole-grain toast to diversify your diet.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the presence of BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), an additive used to preserve freshness, which is listed in the ingredients. While approved for use, some individuals prefer to limit their intake of synthetic preservatives. The product also contains WHEAT and BARLEY, which are common allergens and should be noted by individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. The high added sugar content (22g per 100g) means individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product in moderation and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. The sodium content of 414.63mg per 100g is also notable for those monitoring sodium intake.
Is HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES healthy?
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES received a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is largely due to its high added sugar content (22g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides some beneficial micronutrients like iron and zinc, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's not an optimal choice for regular consumption.
How does HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a less processed breakfast option like plain rolled oats, HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. For instance, a plain oatmeal like Quaker Old Fashioned Oats would have no added sugar and minimal sodium. When compared to other sweetened cereals, its nutritional profile would vary, but its 22g of added sugar per 100g is a considerable amount.
What is 'natural flavor' in this cereal?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list indicates a flavor derived from a natural source, such as a fruit, vegetable, spice, or herb. In HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES, it likely contributes to the strawberry taste profile. While derived from natural sources, these flavors are often highly processed and can be complex mixtures of chemicals, not necessarily offering nutritional benefits.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The recommended serving size for HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage the intake of added sugars and calories. Consuming larger portions will proportionally increase your intake of these components, making it more challenging to maintain a balanced diet.
Can I eat this cereal if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
Given that HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES contains 22g of added sugar per 100g, it is not an ideal choice for individuals actively trying to reduce their sugar intake. This amount contributes significantly to daily sugar limits. Consider opting for unsweetened cereals or those with very low added sugar content if sugar reduction is a primary dietary goal.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list for HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS CEREAL WITH REAL STRAWBERRIES includes WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT and WHOLE GRAIN ROLLED OATS. These ingredients contribute to the product's fiber content. However, the presence of whole grains does not negate the impact of other ingredients, such as added sugars, on the overall nutritional score.