MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY scores 27/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content. This MALT O MEAL product is an ultra-processed grain-based breakfast option.
This MALT O MEAL cereal has a FoodScore of 27/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
It provides a notable amount of iron (167% DV) and Vitamin B12 (292% DV) per 100g.
A significant concern is the 32.67g of added sugar per 100g serving.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from plain rolled oats.
Consider serving with unsweetened dairy or plant-based milk to balance the flavor.
Scores -20 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY receives a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, largely influenced by its formulation as an ultra-processed food and its high sugar content. The product is penalized 25 points for its 32.67g of added sugar per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a breakfast cereal. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food incurs a 10-point penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and the presence of ingredients like Red 40 and artificial flavor. While the cereal does contain some fiber (3.3g per 100g), earning 3 bonus points, its primary grain components are corn flour and whole grain oat flour, with sugar listed as the first ingredient. It also receives 10 bonus points for its fortification with several micronutrients, including iron (167% DV), zinc (91% DV), Vitamin B12 (292% DV), and folate (167% DV). However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to plain rolled oats, which are a minimally processed whole grain, MALT O MEAL cereal contains significantly more added sugar and sodium, and less fiber.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in malt o meal sweetened corn & oat cereal, berry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This MALT O MEAL cereal is fortified with several important vitamins and minerals. Per 100g, it provides 167% of the Daily Value for iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport and preventing anemia. It also offers a significant amount of Vitamin B12 (292% DV) and Folate (167% DV), both vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation. These fortifications can help address common nutrient gaps in some diets, especially for individuals who may not regularly consume other rich sources of these specific micronutrients.
Convenient Breakfast Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy breakfast, this MALT O MEAL cereal offers a convenient and ready-to-eat solution. Its shelf-stable nature and simple preparation (just add milk) make it a practical choice for busy mornings. While not a nutrient-dense option, its accessibility can help ensure a meal is consumed, which can be beneficial for maintaining regular eating patterns, especially when time is limited. It can serve as a base to which more nutritious ingredients can be added.
Provides Dietary Fiber
Despite its high sugar content, this MALT O MEAL cereal does contribute some dietary fiber, with 3.3g per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to promote regularity and contribute to a feeling of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can be a small part of a daily fiber intake goal. Including other fiber-rich foods throughout the day, such as fruits, vegetables, and legumes, is still essential for meeting recommended daily fiber targets.
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY scores 27/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content. This MALT O MEAL product is an ultra-processed grain-based breakfast option.
How to eat it
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal, often with milk. A common portion is 3/4 cup, but it's easy to consume more. The sweet flavor profile means it's often eaten without additional sweeteners.
To reduce the overall sugar impact, consider mixing this cereal with an equal portion of plain, unsweetened whole-grain oats or another low-sugar cereal.
Pair with a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to increase satiety and balance blood sugar response.
Add fresh or frozen berries to boost fiber and micronutrient intake, which can also help to dilute the sweetness of the cereal.
Measure your serving size carefully (3/4 cup) to manage calorie and added sugar intake, as portion distortion is common with cereals.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY, which is 32.67g per 100g. This level of sugar can contribute to excessive caloric intake if not consumed in moderation. The ingredient list also includes Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, which are artificial food colors. While approved for use, some individuals may choose to limit their intake of artificial colors. The presence of partially hydrogenated soybean oil, though stated as 0g trans fat per 100g, indicates a highly processed fat source. Individuals with sensitivities to artificial flavors or colors may wish to consider other options.
Is MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY healthy?
This MALT O MEAL cereal scores 27/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it is fortified with several micronutrients like iron and Vitamin B12, its high content of added sugar (32.67g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is not considered a healthy everyday breakfast option.
How does MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY compare to plain rolled oats?
Compared to plain rolled oats, MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY is significantly different. Plain rolled oats are a minimally processed whole grain with no added sugar or sodium. This MALT O MEAL product, in contrast, is an ultra-processed cereal with a high amount of added sugar and sodium, and a lower fiber content relative to its calorie count. For a similar comparison, a bowl of Kellogg's Frosted Flakes would also be considered an ultra-processed, high-sugar cereal.
What is 'partially hydrogenated soybean oil' in the ingredients?
Partially hydrogenated soybean oil is a type of fat that has undergone a process called hydrogenation. While the label states 0g trans fat per 100g, indicating the trans fat content is below the reporting threshold, it is still a highly processed oil. The presence of partially hydrogenated oils is a marker of ultra-processed foods, even if trans fats are not present in significant amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size for MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL, BERRY is 3/4 cup. Sticking to this portion size is important to manage the intake of added sugar and calories. Consuming larger portions will significantly increase your intake of added sugars, which can contribute to exceeding daily recommendations.
Can this cereal be part of a balanced diet?
While this cereal is high in added sugar, it can be included in a balanced diet occasionally and in moderation. It is best consumed as an infrequent treat rather than a daily staple. To balance its nutritional profile, consider pairing it with nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit, nuts, or plain yogurt to add fiber, protein, and healthy fats.