MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
This MALT O MEAL cereal scores 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 37.33g of added sugar per 100g, a primary factor for its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal has substantially more added sugar and sodium.
Consider this cereal an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -19 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS receives a FoodScore of 28/100, primarily driven by its high added sugar content of 37.33g per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The presence of 500mg of sodium per 100g also contributes a -2 penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 penalty. On the positive side, the cereal provides 3.3g of fiber, earning +3 points. It is also fortified with several micronutrients, including 24mg of iron (133% DV), 10mg of zinc (91% DV), and high levels of vitamins A, C, B12, and folate, which collectively add +12 points. However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties from added sugar, sodium, and its processing level. Ingredients like corn flour, sugar, and marshmallows (which list sugar and corn syrup as primary components) are prominent, contributing to the overall sugar load. In contrast, a baseline like plain rolled oats contains no added sugar or significant sodium, making it a nutritionally superior option.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in malt o meal sweetened corn & oat cereal with marshmallows, sweetened corn & oat cereal with marshmallows actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Micronutrients
This MALT O MEAL cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals. It provides 133% DV for iron and 91% DV for zinc per 100g, which can help meet daily requirements for these nutrients. Additionally, it contains high levels of Vitamin A (111% DV), Vitamin B12 (167% DV), and Folate (133% DV). These micronutrients play roles in energy metabolism and immune function, making the cereal a source for these specific dietary needs.
Contains Some Dietary Fiber
Despite its high sugar content, MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g. This fiber comes partly from the whole grain oat flour listed in the ingredients. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While not a primary fiber source, it does contribute to daily fiber intake, which is often below recommended levels for many individuals.
Quick Energy Source
With 400 calories per 100g and a significant amount of carbohydrates, this cereal can provide a rapid source of energy. The combination of corn flour, sugar, and corn syrup in the marshmallows contributes to its caloric density. For individuals needing a quick energy boost, particularly before physical activity, this cereal can serve that purpose, though it should be balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
How to eat it
MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS is typically consumed as a breakfast cereal with milk. A common serving size is 1 cup, which provides a quick and accessible meal. Due to its high sugar content, it is often seen as a treat.
To balance the meal, pair a smaller portion of this cereal with a source of protein like plain Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg.
Add fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced banana, to increase the fiber and micronutrient content of your breakfast.
Consider mixing this cereal with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber plain cereal to reduce the overall added sugar per serving.
Use a measured portion size (e.g., 1 cup) to help manage calorie and added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, which is 37.33g per 100g. This level of sugar can contribute to excessive sugar intake if consumed regularly in large portions. The cereal also contains several artificial colors, including Yellow 5 & 6, Blue 1, and Red 40, which some individuals choose to limit in their diet. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy sensitivities. Given the high sugar and artificial colors, parents of young children may want to moderate consumption. Individuals managing blood sugar levels should also consider the impact of its high sugar load.
Is MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 28/100, this MALT O MEAL cereal is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals, these do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks.
How does MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS compare to Cheerios?
Compared to original Cheerios, MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS has significantly more added sugar and artificial colors. Original Cheerios typically have less added sugar and are made primarily from whole grain oats. Both are fortified, but Cheerios generally offer a more favorable nutritional profile in terms of sugar and processing.
What is the role of marshmallows in this cereal?
The marshmallows in MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS primarily contribute to the product's flavor, texture, and visual appeal. They are a significant source of added sugar, with ingredients like sugar, modified corn starch, and corn syrup. They also contain artificial colors such as Yellow 5 & 6, Blue 1, and Red 40.
What is a recommended portion size for this cereal?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 1 cup. Given the high added sugar (37.33g per 100g), it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even consume less if you are monitoring your sugar intake. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods can help create a more balanced meal.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, MALT O MEAL SWEETENED CORN & OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS does contain whole grain oat flour, which includes the oat bran. However, corn flour and sugar are listed before whole grain oat flour in the ingredient list, indicating they are present in larger amounts. The overall nutritional profile is still dominated by the added sugars and processing.