FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainMOM'S BEST CEREALS· 1 cup

MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED

MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED scores 21/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.

  • FoodScore: 21/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugars and processing.
  • Contains 30.33g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a low score.
  • Provides 3.3g of fiber and 6.67g of protein per 100g.
  • This NOVA 4 ultra-processed cereal offers less nutritional density than plain rolled oats.
  • Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
  • Scores -26 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
30.33g
61% of Daily Value
Sodium
666.67mg
29% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (30.3g)-25
Sodium (666.7mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 21

MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED receives a FoodScore of 21/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the high amount of added sugar, totaling 30.33g per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and dextrose in the marshmallows contribute substantially to this. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point penalty. The sodium content is also notable at 666.67mg per 100g, leading to a -3 point penalty. On the positive side, the cereal does provide 3.3g of fiber (+3 points) and 6.67g of protein (+2 points). It also offers some micronutrients, specifically 333mg of calcium (26% DV) and 2.4mg of iron (13% DV), which together add +4 points. However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties from added sugar, sodium, and processing. Compared to plain rolled oats, which serve as a whole-grain breakfast baseline, this MOM'S BEST CEREALS product contains considerably more added sugar and sodium, and less fiber per 100g.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mom's best cereals whole grain oat cereal with marshmallow pieces, sweetened actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Whole Grains

This cereal lists whole grain oat flour as its primary ingredient, which contributes to its fiber content. Whole grains are associated with supporting digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While the added sugars and processing diminish the overall nutritional profile, the presence of whole oats means it provides some of the benefits associated with dietary fiber.

Provides Calcium and Iron

MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED is fortified with certain micronutrients. A 100g serving provides 333mg of calcium, which is 26% of the Daily Value, and 2.4mg of iron, which is 13% of the Daily Value. Calcium is essential for bone health, and iron plays a role in oxygen transport in the body. These added nutrients can contribute to daily intake, especially for individuals who may not get enough from other sources.

A 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 whole grain oats and various sugars offers both complex and simple carbohydrates. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as before a physical activity, this product can serve that purpose, though the high added sugar content should be considered in the context of overall diet.

How to eat it

This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. A common serving size is 1 cup. Due to its sweetened profile, it can also be eaten as a snack. The primary pitfall is consuming large portions, which can lead to excessive intake of added sugars.

To reduce added sugar intake, consider mixing this cereal with an equal portion of plain, unsweetened rolled oats.
Pair with a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to help increase satiety and balance blood sugar response.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to moderate added sugar consumption.
Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana to introduce additional fiber and vitamins without extra added sugar.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with celiac disease or wheat sensitivity should note that this product contains wheat starch, despite being primarily oat-based. The high added sugar content, at over 30g per 100g, is a significant consideration, particularly for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The sodium level, at 666.67mg per 100g, is also substantial and should be factored into the daily sodium limit, especially for individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular concerns. The presence of gelatin means this product is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.

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Reader questions
Is MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED healthy?
This cereal scores 21/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it contains whole grain oat flour and is fortified with calcium and iron, its high added sugar content (30.33g per 100g) and status as an ultra-processed food significantly lower its nutritional value. It is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does MOM'S BEST CEREALS compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened rolled oats, MOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED has significantly more added sugar and sodium. When compared to other sweetened cereals like General Mills Lucky Charms, the nutritional profiles can be similar in terms of added sugar and processing. It is generally less nutrient-dense than whole-grain, low-sugar options.
What is 'whole grain oat flour' and is it beneficial?
Whole grain oat flour means the entire oat kernel (bran, germ, and endosperm) is used, retaining more nutrients than refined grains. It contributes to the cereal's fiber content, which is beneficial for digestive health. However, in this product, the benefits of whole grain are largely overshadowed by the high levels of added sugars and processing.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 1 cup. Given the high added sugar and calorie content, adhering to this portion size is important to manage intake. For a more balanced meal, consider pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods rather than consuming larger portions alone.
Does this cereal contain artificial colors?
The ingredient list specifies 'blueberry, pumpkin and carrot concentrates for color' for the marshmallows. This indicates that the colors used are derived from natural sources rather than artificial dyes. However, the overall nutritional impact of the product remains largely due to its sugar and processing.

Explore more

CategoryAll grains & breads BrandAll Bush's Best SKUs Competitor · 85/100Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Competitor · 85/100BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headMOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED vs. Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Head-to-headMOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED vs. BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headMOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED vs. Jovial Organic Whole Grain Einkorn Penne Head-to-headMOM'S BEST CEREALS WHOLE GRAIN OAT CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOW PIECES, SWEETENED vs. Jovial Organic Einkorn Spaghetti

Data & references