FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainKELLOGG'S· 3/4 cup

KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON

KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This product scores 23/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
  • It contains 24.14g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a breakfast cereal.
  • The product is fortified with 86% DV of iron and 191% DV of Vitamin A per 100g.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike plain rolled oats.
  • 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
3.45g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
24.14g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
517.24mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+10
What holds it back
Added sugar (24.1g)-25
Sodium (517.2mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 23

KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON receives a FoodScore of 23/100, largely driven by its nutritional profile. A primary factor is the high amount of added sugar, at 24.14g per 100g, which significantly contributes to the low score. The ingredient list highlights sugar as the second ingredient after milled corn. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, incurring a penalty in the scoring system. While the product does provide some micronutrient bonuses, specifically for iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and riboflavin, these are not sufficient to offset the penalties. The sodium content, at 517.24mg per 100g, also contributes a minor penalty. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are a whole grain with no added sugar or high sodium, KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON offers a less favorable nutritional composition due to its processing and added ingredients like malt flavor and BHT for freshness.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in kellogg's cinnamon frosted flakes of corn, cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Fortified Iron

This cereal is a significant source of iron, providing 86% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. For individuals who may struggle to meet their iron needs through other dietary sources, fortified cereals like this can contribute to daily intake, supporting energy levels and overall physiological function.

Good Source of Vitamin A

KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON is fortified with Vitamin A, offering 191% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. Including fortified foods can help ensure adequate intake of this fat-soluble vitamin, particularly for those with limited access to diverse fruit and vegetable sources.

Provides B Vitamins

This product is fortified with several B vitamins, including Vitamin B12 (215% DV), Riboflavin, Niacinamide, Vitamin B6, and Thiamin. B vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism, converting food into usable energy. They are also important for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Fortified cereals can be a convenient way to supplement intake of these water-soluble vitamins, which are not stored in the body and must be consumed regularly.

How to eat it

Breakfast cereals like KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES are typically consumed with milk as a quick morning meal. A common serving size is 3/4 cup, but it's easy to overpour, leading to higher intake of added sugars and sodium. This product is often chosen for its convenience and flavor.

To reduce the overall sugar load, combine a smaller portion of this cereal with a higher-fiber, unsweetened cereal.
Pair with a source of protein, such as plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts, to increase satiety and balance blood sugar.
Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to introduce natural sweetness and additional fiber and vitamins.
Measure your portion size accurately (3/4 cup) to manage calorie and added sugar intake effectively.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON relates to its high added sugar content, which can contribute to excessive caloric intake and may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels. The presence of BHT for freshness is a synthetic antioxidant, generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, but some consumers prefer to limit synthetic additives. While the sodium content is notable, it is unlikely to pose a significant risk for most healthy individuals in typical serving sizes. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label beyond what might be inferred from 'milled corn' and 'malt flavor', but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list carefully.

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Reader questions
Is KELLOGG'S Frosted Flakes healthy?
KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES OF CORN, CINNAMON scores 23/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food are key factors in this score. While fortified with some vitamins and iron, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional considerations.
How does KELLOGG'S Frosted Flakes compare to other cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like plain rolled oats, KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES has significantly more added sugar (24.14g per 100g) and is ultra-processed. Even when compared to other sweetened cereals, its sugar and sodium levels place it in the lower range of nutritional quality. For example, a brand like Cheerios, while also processed, typically has less added sugar.
What is 'malt flavor' in the ingredients?
Malt flavor is a common ingredient derived from malted barley, used to impart a sweet, toasted, or caramel-like taste. While it contributes to the overall flavor profile of the cereal, it can also add to the sugar content and is part of the processing that classifies this product as ultra-processed. It is not a significant source of nutrients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 3/4 cup. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugar and calories. Many people tend to pour more than a standard serving, which can lead to consuming significantly more sugar and sodium than intended. Using a measuring cup can help with portion control.
Can this cereal be part of a balanced diet?
While not ideal for daily consumption, KELLOGG'S CINNAMON FROSTED FLAKES can be included in a balanced diet as an occasional treat. To mitigate its impact, consider pairing it with nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit, nuts, or plain yogurt to add fiber, protein, and healthy fats, which can help balance the meal.

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Data & references