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

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CORN CEREAL

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CORN CEREAL scores 29/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly outweighs its micronutrient fortification.

  • KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES scores 29/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
  • A single serving provides 35.9g of added sugar, contributing to a significant penalty.
  • This cereal is fortified with 103% DV of iron and 128% DV of Vitamin B12 per 100g.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this product contains substantially more added sugar and sodium.
  • Consider pairing with a protein source and fresh fruit to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
  • Scores -18 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.59g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5.13g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35.9g
72% of Daily Value
Sodium
512.82mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.6g)+2
Protein (5.1g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (35.9g)-25
Sodium (512.8mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 29

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES CORN CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, primarily driven by its high concentration of added sugar. With 35.9g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list clearly shows sugar as the second ingredient, indicating its significant presence. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), leading to a -5 point penalty. It also contains 512.82mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in a -2 point penalty. On the positive side, the cereal is fortified, earning +8 points for its contributions of iron (103% DV), Vitamin B12 (128% DV), Folate (77% DV), and Riboflavin. It also receives minor bonuses for its fiber (2.59g) and protein (5.13g) content. However, these positive contributions are largely overshadowed by the penalties. In comparison to a baseline of plain rolled oats, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES contains considerably more added sugar and sodium, and significantly less fiber.

Health benefits

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

Source of Essential Micronutrients

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, making it a source of these nutrients. Per 100g, it provides 103% of the Daily Value for iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport and energy metabolism. It also offers 128% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12, important for nerve function and red blood cell formation, and 77% of the Daily Value for Folate, vital for cell growth and development. These micronutrients can help address common dietary shortfalls, especially for individuals who may not consume enough of these vitamins and minerals from other sources.

Quick Energy Source

As a grain-based cereal with a high carbohydrate content, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES can provide a rapid source of energy. The milled corn base, combined with added sugar, makes carbohydrates readily available for the body to use as fuel. This can be beneficial for individuals needing a quick energy boost, such as before physical activity or as part of a breakfast to kickstart the day. The carbohydrate content helps replenish glycogen stores, which are essential for sustained physical and mental performance.

Convenient Breakfast Option

This cereal offers a convenient and accessible breakfast solution for many households. Its ready-to-eat format requires minimal preparation, making it a practical choice for busy mornings. The fortification with vitamins and minerals means that even a quick meal can contribute to daily nutrient intake. For individuals seeking a fast and easy option, this product fits into a routine where time for meal preparation is limited, providing a familiar and readily available food item.

How to eat it

KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. A common serving size is 1 cup, though actual consumption can vary. Its sweet profile makes it appealing, but the added sugar content is a key consideration for daily intake.

Pair with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) and a handful of fresh berries or sliced fruit to add fiber and natural sweetness.
Combine with a source of protein like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or a hard-boiled egg to help increase satiety and balance blood sugar response.
Be mindful of portion sizes; measure out the recommended 1 cup serving to manage added sugar intake.
Consider mixing with a small amount of a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to dilute the overall sugar content of your bowl.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES is its high added sugar content. With 35.9g per 100g, this product contributes significantly to daily sugar intake, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or for parents monitoring children's sugar consumption. While fortified, the overall nutritional profile is dominated by refined carbohydrates and sugar. The ingredient malt flavor is present, which may be a consideration for individuals with specific dietary sensitivities, though it is generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared beyond the corn base.

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Reader questions
Is KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES healthy?
KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES scores 29/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it is fortified with several vitamins and minerals like iron and Vitamin B12, its high added sugar content (35.9g per 100g) is a significant nutritional drawback. It is considered a processed food due to its NOVA 3 classification.
How does KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain cereal like Shredded Wheat, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES has significantly more added sugar and less fiber. For instance, a plain Shredded Wheat cereal typically contains no added sugar and much higher fiber. Even compared to other sweetened cereals, its sugar content is notably high.
What is 'milled corn' in the ingredient list?
Milled corn refers to corn that has been processed to remove the bran and germ, leaving primarily the starchy endosperm. This process results in a refined grain, which has less fiber and fewer nutrients than whole corn, though some nutrients are added back through fortification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The recommended serving size is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugars and calories. Consuming larger portions would further increase the amount of added sugar and sodium consumed in a single sitting.
Can I eat KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
Given its 35.9g of added sugar per 100g, KELLOGG'S FROSTED FLAKES is not an ideal choice if you are actively trying to reduce your sugar intake. There are many other breakfast options with significantly less or no added sugar that would better support that goal.

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Data & references