MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL WITH CINNAMON, TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES
MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES scores 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, contributing significantly to its ultra-processed classification.
This cereal received a FoodScore of 29/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
A serving contains 33.3g of added sugar, a primary factor for its low score.
It provides 4.8g of fiber per 100g, offering a modest nutritional benefit.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this product is significantly higher in added sugars and sodium.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -18 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES received a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, largely driven by its nutritional profile and processing level. The most significant penalty comes from its high added sugar content, at 33.3g per 100g, which accounts for a substantial portion of its caloric load. This amount of added sugar is a key factor in its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, incurring an additional penalty. While the product does offer some positive attributes, such as 4.8g of fiber and notable amounts of certain micronutrients like iron (83% DV) and calcium (31% DV), these are not enough to offset the penalties. The presence of ingredients like fructose and dextrose further contributes to the overall sugar load. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are minimally processed and contain no added sugars or significant sodium, this MOM'S BEST CEREALS product presents a less favorable nutritional choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in mom's best cereals toasted cinnamon squares sweetened whole grain wheat and rice cereal with cinnamon, toasted cinnamon squares actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Minerals
This cereal is fortified with several important minerals, making it a convenient way to boost intake. A 100g serving provides 83% of the Daily Value for iron and 31% for calcium, both crucial for bone health and oxygen transport. It also contributes 49% of the Daily Value for zinc, which supports immune function and cell growth. These added micronutrients can be beneficial for individuals looking to supplement their diet, especially if they have specific deficiencies or dietary restrictions.
Contains Whole Grains
MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES lists whole grain wheat as its primary ingredient. Whole grains are a valuable source of dietary fiber and various nutrients, contributing to digestive health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The 4.8g of fiber per 100g in this product can help contribute to your daily fiber goals, supporting bowel regularity and satiety. While the product is ultra-processed, the inclusion of whole grains provides a foundational nutritional component.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 4.8g of fiber per 100g, this cereal offers a moderate amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for maintaining digestive health, promoting feelings of fullness, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can contribute to overall well-being. While not exceptionally high in fiber, this amount can still contribute positively to daily intake, especially when combined with other fiber sources throughout the day.
MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES scores 29/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content, contributing significantly to its ultra-processed classification.
How to eat it
This cereal is typically consumed as a quick breakfast with milk or as a dry snack. While convenient, its high added sugar content means portion control is important. It's easy to overconsume sugary cereals, so being mindful of serving sizes is key to managing overall sugar intake.
Combine with unsweetened dairy or plant-based milk and fresh fruit to add vitamins, minerals, and natural sweetness.
Use as a crunchy topping for plain yogurt or oatmeal to add texture and a hint of cinnamon flavor, while controlling the portion size.
Consider mixing with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to dilute the added sugar per serving.
Enjoy as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to help manage overall sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to note. The presence of soy lecithin means it contains a common allergen, soy, which individuals with soy allergies should avoid. The high amount of added sugar (33.3g per 100g) is a significant factor for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce empty calories. The sodium content, at 476.19mg per 100g, is also relatively high, which could be a consideration for individuals managing blood pressure. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives like maltodextrin and natural flavor, which some consumers prefer to limit in their diet.
Is MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES healthy?
This cereal scores 29/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it provides some fiber and fortified micronutrients like iron and calcium, its high added sugar content (33.3g per 100g) and status as an ultra-processed food are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is best considered an occasional food rather than a staple for a healthy diet.
How does MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES compare to other cereals?
Compared to a minimally processed whole-grain option like plain rolled oats, MOM'S BEST CEREALS TOASTED CINNAMON SQUARES is significantly higher in added sugars and sodium. When compared to other sweetened cereals, such as Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, it may offer similar levels of added sugar but often provides more fiber due to its whole-grain base. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What is fructose, and why is it in this cereal?
Fructose is a type of sugar found naturally in fruits, but in this cereal, it is added as a sweetener, alongside sugar and dextrose. These added sugars contribute to the product's flavor and texture. The inclusion of multiple forms of sugar, like fructose, significantly increases the overall added sugar content of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. Given the high added sugar content, sticking to this portion size is advisable to manage your intake. For a more balanced meal, consider pairing it with protein-rich foods like Greek yogurt or nuts, and fresh fruit to add more nutrients and fiber.
Does this cereal contain artificial colors?
The ingredient list includes 'caramel and annatto extract (color),' which are natural colorings derived from plant sources. It does not list synthetic artificial colors such as Red 40 or Yellow 5. Consumers looking to avoid artificial colors may find this aspect of the product acceptable.