MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL scores 28/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar. The MALT O MEAL product is an ultra-processed grain-based cereal.
This MALT O MEAL cereal has a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
A serving contains 30.33g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
It provides 167% DV for Iron and 114% DV for Zinc per 100g, offering some micronutrient fortification.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this product is considerably higher in added sugar and sodium.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple due to its nutritional profile.
Scores -19 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 28/100, categorizing it as an 'Avoid' food. This score is largely driven by the product's high added sugar content, which is 30.33g per 100g, resulting in a substantial penalty of -25 points. The presence of sugar and brown sugar syrup as primary ingredients contributes to this. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, incurs a -10 point penalty. The sodium content of 633.33mg per 100g also adds a minor penalty of -2 points. On the positive side, the cereal receives +3 points for its fiber content of 3.3g per 100g. Significant bonuses of +12 points are awarded for its fortification with various micronutrients, including high levels of Iron (167% DV), Zinc (114% DV), Vitamin A (186% DV), and Vitamin B12 (208% DV). Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are naturally low in added sugar and sodium, this MALT O MEAL cereal contains considerably more added sugar and is significantly more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in malt o meal sweetened corn & oat cereal, sweetened corn & oat cereal actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Micronutrients
This MALT O MEAL cereal is fortified with several essential micronutrients. Per 100g, it provides 167% of the Daily Value for Iron and 114% for Zinc, which are important for oxygen transport and immune function, respectively. It also offers high amounts of Vitamin A (186% DV) and Vitamin B12 (208% DV), contributing to vision and nerve health. While the overall nutritional profile is impacted by other factors, these specific micronutrient contributions can help address potential dietary gaps, particularly for individuals who may not consume enough of these vitamins and minerals from other sources.
Provides Dietary Fiber
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL contains 3.3g of fiber per 100g. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can contribute to daily fiber intake, which is beneficial for digestive health and maintaining regularity. The fiber comes from ingredients like whole grain oat flour. Including sources of fiber in the diet is important for overall well-being, and this cereal can be one component of meeting those needs, especially when paired with other fiber-rich foods.
Quick Energy Source
With 400 calories per 100g and a significant amount of carbohydrates from corn flour and sugar, this cereal can provide a rapid source of energy. 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, it can serve this purpose. The combination of simple and complex carbohydrates can offer both immediate and sustained energy, though the high added sugar content means this energy comes with a trade-off.
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL scores 28/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar. The MALT O MEAL product is an ultra-processed grain-based cereal.
How to eat it
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL is typically consumed as a breakfast food, often with milk. A common serving size is 0.75 cup. Due to its sweetened profile, it's frequently chosen for its palatability, but its nutritional density should be considered in the context of a balanced diet.
Pair with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) to avoid adding more sugar.
Combine with fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to add natural sweetness, fiber, and additional vitamins.
Mix a small portion with a higher-protein, lower-sugar cereal to improve the overall nutritional balance of your breakfast.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast item to moderate added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
This MALT O MEAL cereal contains several ingredients that consumers should be aware of. The presence of partially hydrogenated soybean oil indicates the potential for trans fats, despite the label claiming 0g trans fat per 100g, due to rounding rules for small amounts. Individuals with soy allergies should note the inclusion of soy lecithin. The product also contains several artificial colors, specifically Yellow 5 & 6, Red 3 & 40, and Blue 1, which some individuals may choose to avoid. The high added sugar content should be a consideration for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The sodium content is also relatively high, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure.
Is MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL healthy?
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL has a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (30.33g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with several micronutrients like iron and zinc, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a health-promoting daily food choice.
How does MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL compare to Kellogg's Frosted Flakes?
Compared to Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL has a similar profile in terms of being a sweetened, ultra-processed cereal. Both typically feature high levels of added sugar and are fortified with vitamins and minerals. Consumers should compare specific nutrition labels for exact differences in sugar, sodium, and fiber, as formulations can vary slightly between brands and product lines.
What is 'whole grain oat flour' in the ingredient list?
Whole grain oat flour means that the flour includes all parts of the oat kernel: the bran, germ, and endosperm. This ensures that the natural fiber and nutrients found in the whole grain are retained, unlike refined flours where parts of the grain are removed. In this cereal, it contributes to the modest fiber content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size for MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL is 0.75 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories, added sugar, and sodium. For a more balanced meal, consider combining this smaller portion with other foods that are higher in protein and fiber, such as nuts or plain yogurt.
Does this cereal contain artificial colors?
Yes, the ingredient list for MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL explicitly lists several artificial colors. These include Yellow 5 & 6, Red 3 & 40, and Blue 1. Some individuals may choose to limit or avoid products containing artificial food dyes due to personal preferences or sensitivities.