HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL scores 20/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This cereal receives a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
A single serving contains 42.5g of added sugar, a significant contributor to its low score.
It provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g, offering a minor nutritional benefit.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food, unlike plain rolled oats.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular breakfast staple.
Scores -27 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42.5g
85% of Daily Value
Sodium
675mg
29% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Zinc)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (42.5g)-25
Sodium (675mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 20
HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 20 out of 100, primarily driven by its high levels of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 42.5g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with sugar and includes multiple other sweeteners like corn syrup, fructose, and honey, indicating a significant sweetening profile. Additionally, its NOVA class 4 designation, meaning it is ultra-processed, contributes a further -10 penalty to the score. While the cereal does offer some micronutrients, specifically 25% DV for calcium, 62% DV for iron, and 34% DV for zinc per 100g, these benefits (+6 points) are outweighed by the penalties. The 2.5g of fiber per 100g also provides a small bonus of +2 points. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are minimally processed and contain no added sugar, HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL presents a significantly different nutritional profile, with oats typically scoring much higher due to their whole grain content and lack of added sugars and processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in honey maid s'mores cereal, s'mores actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Essential Minerals
HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL is fortified with several important minerals. A 100g serving provides 25% of the Daily Value for calcium, 62% for iron, and 34% for zinc. These minerals play crucial roles in the body, with iron supporting oxygen transport and calcium contributing to bone health. While not a primary source of these nutrients, the fortification can contribute to daily intake, especially for individuals who may have gaps in their diet.
Source of Fiber
This cereal contains 2.5g of fiber per 100g. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain regularity. Including sources of fiber in the diet is generally recommended for overall well-being, and this product offers a modest contribution in that regard.
Quick Energy Source
With 400 calories per 100g and a high carbohydrate content, HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL can provide a rapid source of energy. This can be useful for individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as before certain physical activities or as part of a meal for those with higher energy requirements. The combination of sugars and grains quickly converts to glucose for immediate use by the body.
HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL scores 20/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL is typically consumed as a breakfast food with milk, or as a dry snack. A common portion is 1 cup, which is 40g. Due to its high added sugar content, it's important to consider portion control and frequency of consumption.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider mixing this cereal with a lower-sugar, whole-grain cereal like plain shredded wheat.
Pair with a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or nuts, to help moderate blood sugar response and increase satiety.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to limit intake of added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients.
Measure out a single serving (1 cup) to avoid overconsumption, as calories and sugar can add up quickly.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL, which is 42.5g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and consider its impact on their daily carbohydrate and sugar limits. The ingredient list also includes BHT added to preserve freshness, an additive that some individuals prefer to limit in their diet. The product contains common allergens such as whole grain wheat and soy lecithin, which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients. While generally safe for consumption, its ultra-processed nature and high sugar content suggest it should not be a dietary staple.
HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL scores 20/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. This is largely due to its high added sugar content (42.5g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some minerals like iron and calcium, these benefits do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks for regular consumption.
How does HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened whole-grain cereal like Cheerios Original, HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL has significantly more added sugar and is more highly processed. While both may be fortified, the nutritional density of whole-grain options without high added sugar is generally superior. Many other breakfast cereals also fall into the ultra-processed category, but their sugar and sodium levels can vary.
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, while artificial flavors are chemically synthesized. These are common ingredients in many processed foods and contribute to the overall sensory experience of the product, but do not provide nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL?
The recommended serving size for HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL is 1 cup (40g). Sticking to this portion size is important to manage the intake of calories and added sugars. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase the amount of added sugar and total calories consumed in one sitting.
Can HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL be part of a balanced diet?
While HONEY MAID S'MORES CEREAL can be included in a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation and as an occasional treat. Due to its high added sugar and ultra-processed nature, it is not recommended as a daily staple. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods for most meals and snacks is key for overall dietary balance.