FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorgrainHONEY BUNCHES OF OATS· 1 cup

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL, HONEY ROASTED

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high content of added sugar**. While fortified with several vitamins and minerals, its overall nutritional profile is significantly impacted by processing.

  • FoodScore: 34/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional density.
  • Fortified with high levels of iron (219% DV) and Vitamin A (678% DV).
  • Contains 19.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike plain rolled oats.
  • Best consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
  • Scores -13 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
19.5g
39% of Daily Value
Sodium
463.41mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.9g)+5
Protein (7.3g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Phosphorus, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+12
What holds it back
Added sugar (19.5g)-25
Sodium (463.4mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 34

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 34/100, categorized as Poor. The primary factor driving this score is the high amount of added sugar, which stands at 19.5g per 100g, resulting in a substantial -25 penalty. Ingredients like SUGAR and CORN SYRUP contribute to this sugar load. The product also incurs a -10 penalty for being classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. While it does contain some beneficial components, such as 4.9g of fiber (+5 bonus) and 7.3g of protein (+3 bonus) per 100g, these are outweighed by the penalties. The cereal is heavily fortified, receiving a +12 bonus for significant levels of Iron (219% DV), Vitamin A (678% DV), Vitamin B12 (608% DV), and Folate (146% DV). However, compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are a whole, unprocessed grain, HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS contains considerably more added sugar and is less fiber-dense per calorie.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in honey bunches of oats honey roasted cereal, honey roasted actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Essential Micronutrients

This cereal is heavily fortified with several key vitamins and minerals. Per 100g, it provides 219% of the Daily Value for Iron, 678% for Vitamin A, and 608% for Vitamin B12. These nutrients play crucial roles in energy metabolism, vision, and red blood cell formation. For individuals who may have gaps in their intake of these specific micronutrients, consuming this fortified cereal could contribute to meeting their daily requirements, especially for those who struggle to obtain them from other dietary sources.

Contribution to Daily Fiber Intake

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL contains 4.9g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While not exceptionally high, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber goals, which are often unmet in the average American diet. Including fiber-rich foods can also help promote feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in appetite management when consumed as part of a balanced meal.

Provides Protein for Satiety

With 7.3g of protein per 100g, this cereal offers a moderate amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it can also contribute to satiety, helping you feel full after eating. While not a primary protein source, the protein content in this cereal can complement other protein-rich foods in a breakfast meal, such as milk or yogurt, to create a more balanced and satisfying start to the day.

How to eat it

HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. A common serving size is 1 cup, which contributes to daily calorie and nutrient intake. It can be a quick option for busy mornings, but its added sugar content should be considered.

To enhance the nutritional value, combine with fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to add natural sweetness and additional fiber.
Pair with a source of lean protein, such as Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts, to increase satiety and balance blood sugar levels.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 1-cup serving contains a notable amount of added sugar. Consider mixing with a plain, unsweetened whole-grain cereal to reduce the overall sugar per bowl.
Use as an occasional component in homemade trail mix, combined with unsalted nuts and seeds, for a controlled snack option.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. Ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients like SUGAR, CORN SYRUP, and natural and artificial flavor, which can contribute to a less nutrient-dense diet when consumed regularly. The presence of BHT is a preservative added to preserve freshness. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives or those monitoring their intake of highly processed items may wish to consume this product in moderation. The cereal contains WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT and WHEAT FLOUR, making it unsuitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. While fortified, the high added sugar content may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels.

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Reader questions
Is HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL healthy?
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is fortified with several vitamins and minerals like iron and Vitamin A, its high added sugar content (19.5g per 100g) and ultra-processed nature contribute to a lower nutritional rating. It is not considered a primary healthy food choice for regular consumption.
How does HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS compare to plain rolled oats?
Compared to plain rolled oats, HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL is significantly more processed and contains a substantial amount of added sugar. Plain rolled oats are a whole grain with no added sugars or artificial ingredients, offering more fiber and a lower glycemic impact. While HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS is fortified with many micronutrients, plain oats provide inherent nutrients without the processing.
What is 'natural and artificial flavor' in this cereal?
The term 'natural and artificial flavor' refers to a blend of substances used to enhance the taste of the cereal. Natural flavors are derived from natural sources like spices or fruits, while artificial flavors are chemically synthesized. The specific components of these flavors are proprietary and not disclosed on the label, but they contribute to the product's overall palatability and its ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS?
The declared serving size for HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL is 1 cup. To manage intake of added sugars, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even consider a smaller amount. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods like unsweetened yogurt or fresh fruit can help create a more balanced meal.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list for HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL includes WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT and WHOLE GRAIN ROLLED OATS. These ingredients contribute to the cereal's fiber content. However, the presence of these whole grains does not negate the impact of other ingredients like added sugar and the overall processing of the product.
How does this cereal compare to General Mills Cheerios?
HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS HONEY ROASTED CEREAL and General Mills Cheerios are both breakfast cereals. While both contain whole grains, Cheerios typically have a lower added sugar content per serving compared to HONEY BUNCHES OF OATS. Both are fortified with vitamins and minerals, but the overall nutritional profile, particularly regarding sugar, would differ, making Cheerios a generally more moderate choice in terms of added sugars.

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Data & references