FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackMOM'S BEST· 1 CONTAINER

MOM'S BEST CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREL, CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREL

MOM'S BEST CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.

  • This cereal scores 25/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
  • It contains 23.75g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Provides 5.39g of fiber per 100g, a positive nutrient contribution.
  • Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple snack.
  • Scores -16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
5.39g
19% of Daily Value
Protein
5.36g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.75g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
482.14mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.4g)+6
Protein (5.4g)+1
Micronutrients (Calcium, Magnesium)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.8g)-25
Sodium (482.1mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 25

MOM'S BEST CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL earned a FoodScore of 25 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, which stands at 23.75g per 100g. This contributes a significant -25 penalty to the overall score. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs a -10 penalty. While the cereal does offer some positive attributes, such as 5.39g of fiber per 100g, which provides a +6 bonus, and 5.36g of protein per 100g, contributing a +1 bonus, these are largely overshadowed by the sugar content and processing level. The presence of soy lecithin and various sugars like fructose and dextrose further indicate its processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this cereal contains considerably more added sugars and is less nutrient-dense, despite providing some calcium and magnesium.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mom's best cinnamon sweetened whole grain wheat and rice cerel, cinnamon sweetened whole grain wheat and rice cerel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

MOM'S BEST CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL provides 5.39g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. Including fiber in the diet can also support healthy blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose. This amount of fiber can be a useful contribution towards daily fiber goals, especially when paired with other fiber-rich foods.

Contains Essential Minerals

This cereal offers 357.14mg of calcium (27% DV) and 43mg of magnesium (10% DV) per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, supporting muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. These minerals are valuable for overall bodily functions and can contribute to meeting daily nutrient requirements.

Convenient Snack Option

As a pre-packaged cereal, this product offers convenience for quick snacks or breakfast options. For individuals with limited time, having a readily available food item can help prevent skipping meals or making less optimal choices. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its ease of preparation and portability can be a practical benefit in certain situations, fitting into a busy lifestyle when a more involved meal is not feasible.

How to eat it

This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item with milk or as a dry snack. A common serving size is 1 container, which can be a quick option for individuals on the go. However, be mindful of the added sugar content when incorporating it into your routine.

Pair with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) and a handful of nuts or seeds to add protein and healthy fats, balancing the meal.
Use as a crunchy topping for plain Greek yogurt or a fruit salad, rather than consuming a full serving on its own, to moderate intake.
Portion control is key; consider measuring out a smaller serving than the full container to reduce added sugar intake.
Alternate with whole-food breakfast options like oatmeal with fruit or eggs to ensure a more nutrient-dense start to your day.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy sensitivities. While the ingredient list does not declare other major allergens like peanuts or tree nuts, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. The high amount of added sugar (23.75g per 100g) means this cereal should be consumed with caution by individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, as it can contribute to rapid increases in blood glucose. The presence of annatto and caramel color are generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may prefer to avoid artificial colors in their diet.

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Reader questions
Is MOM'S BEST CINNAMON SWEETENED WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT AND RICE CEREAL healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), this cereal is not considered a healthy everyday food choice. Its high added sugar content (23.75g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food are the main reasons for this score. While it offers some fiber and minerals, these benefits are outweighed by less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does MOM'S BEST compare to other cereals?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened whole-grain cereal like Shredded Wheat, MOM'S BEST contains significantly more added sugar and is more processed. While it offers similar fiber content, the nutritional density is lower due to the added sugars and fats. For a healthier option, look for cereals with minimal or no added sugars and a higher fiber-to-sugar ratio.
What is 'natural flavor' in this cereal?
'Natural flavor' is a broad term for flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. While the source is natural, the processing can be extensive, and the specific compounds are not disclosed. It's used here to enhance the cinnamon taste profile without specifying the exact ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 container. However, due to the high added sugar, a more reasonable portion for regular consumption might be smaller, perhaps half a container, especially if you are pairing it with other foods. This helps to moderate the intake of added sugars and calories.
Can I eat this cereal if I have celiac disease?
No, this cereal contains whole grain wheat, which is a source of gluten. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Always check the ingredient list carefully for gluten-containing ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.

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