FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainKELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES· 1 1/4 Cup

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, MARSHMALLOWS

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This product scores 23/100, indicating it is not a recommended choice for regular consumption.
  • A serving contains 29.3g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • It is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, contrasting with whole-grain options like plain rolled oats.
  • Offers some micronutrient fortification, including 73% DV for iron and 92% DV for Vitamin B12 per 100g.
  • 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
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
4.88g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
29.3g
59% of Daily Value
Sodium
536.59mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (29.3g)-25
Sodium (536.6mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 23

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS receives a FoodScore of 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, which stands at 29.3g per 100g. This contributes a significant -25 penalty to the overall score. Additionally, the product's classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food incurs a -10 penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and formulation with ingredients like milled corn, sugar, and corn syrup. While the cereal does provide some nutritional benefits, such as 2.4g of fiber and fortification with iron (73% DV), Vitamin B12 (92% DV), folate (61% DV), and riboflavin, these positive contributions are outweighed by the high sugar and sodium content (536.59mg per 100g, a -2 penalty). In comparison to a baseline like plain rolled oats, which are a whole grain with minimal processing and no added sugar or high sodium, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES presents a significantly different nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in kellogg's frosted flakes cereal with marshmallows, marshmallows actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Micronutrient Fortification

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS is fortified with several essential micronutrients. Per 100g, it provides 73% of the Daily Value for iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport and energy metabolism. It also offers 92% DV for Vitamin B12 and 61% DV for folate, both vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation. This fortification can help address potential dietary gaps, particularly for individuals who may not consume enough of these nutrients from other sources.

Source of B Vitamins

This cereal is a notable source of several B vitamins, including niacinamide, pyridoxine hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), riboflavin (Vitamin B2), and thiamin hydrochloride (Vitamin B1). These B vitamins play interconnected roles in energy production, helping the body convert food into fuel. While the overall nutritional profile is impacted by other ingredients, the presence of these vitamins contributes to the product's ability to support basic metabolic functions.

Quick Energy Source

Due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from milled corn and various sugars, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES can provide a rapid source of energy. For individuals needing a quick boost, such as before a physical activity, the readily available carbohydrates can be beneficial. However, it is important to balance this with other nutrient-dense foods to avoid a rapid spike and subsequent crash in blood sugar levels.

How to eat it

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal with milk. It's often chosen for its sweet taste and convenience. A common serving size is 1 1/4 cup, but it's easy to pour more, potentially increasing sugar and calorie intake.

To improve the nutritional balance, pair this cereal with protein-rich foods like Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg.
Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to increase fiber and introduce additional vitamins and minerals.
Use a measuring cup to stick to the recommended 1 1/4 cup serving size to manage added sugar intake.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast option due to its ultra-processed nature and high sugar content.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, which is 29.3g per 100g. This can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or for parents monitoring their children's sugar intake. The product also contains several artificial colors, including Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1, which some individuals choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. The presence of gelatin means this product is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. The sodium content, at 536.59mg per 100g, is also relatively high and should be considered by those monitoring their sodium intake.

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Reader questions
Is KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS healthy?
KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS scores 23/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (29.3g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some vitamins and iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS compare to other cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like plain rolled oats, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES has significantly more added sugar and is ultra-processed. Even when compared to other popular sweetened cereals like General Mills' Lucky Charms, it still contains a high amount of added sugar. Its fortification with iron and B vitamins is a common practice in many cereals, but the high sugar content remains a key differentiator.
What is 'malt flavor' in the ingredient list?
Malt flavor is a flavoring agent derived from malted barley. In cereals like KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES, it contributes to the overall taste profile, often adding a slightly sweet and toasted note. While it's a flavor, it can also contain some sugars, contributing to the total carbohydrate content of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The recommended serving size for KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS is 1 1/4 cup. Sticking to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugars and calories. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase the amount of sugar and sodium consumed, making it even less aligned with dietary guidelines.
Can children eat KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS?
Children can consume KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, but due to its high added sugar content, it should be offered in moderation. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars, especially for children. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods and using it as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast is advisable.

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Data & references