MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE FLAVORED SWEETENED RICE CEREAL WITH REAL COCOA, CRISPY COCOA RICE
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal scores 19/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
FoodScore: 19/100 (Avoid).
Contains 42.9g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
Provides 72% DV of iron and 32% DV of zinc per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -22 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
4.76g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42.9g
86% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (42.9g)-25
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 19
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal receives a FoodScore of 19 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high added sugar content, which stands at 42.9g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of 25 points. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which contributes an additional 10-point penalty. Furthermore, the sodium content of 571.43mg per 100g results in a 2-point penalty. On the positive side, the cereal does offer some micronutrients, specifically 12.9mg of iron (72% DV) and 3.57mg of zinc (32% DV), earning 4 bonus points. It also contains 2.4g of fiber, adding 2 bonus points. However, these small bonuses are significantly outweighed by the penalties from added sugar, sodium, and its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this cereal provides considerably less nutritional density and a much higher amount of added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in mom's best crispy cocoa rice flavored sweetened rice cereal with real cocoa, crispy cocoa rice actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal is fortified with iron, providing 12.9mg per 100g, which is 72% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing iron-deficiency anemia. Including fortified cereals can help individuals, especially those with higher iron needs like growing children and menstruating women, meet their daily requirements.
Source of Zinc
This cereal also contributes to zinc intake, offering 3.57mg per 100g, or 32% of the Daily Value. Zinc plays a vital role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. For individuals who may struggle to obtain sufficient zinc from other dietary sources, fortified cereals like this one can be a convenient way to boost intake.
Provides Quick Energy
As a rice-based cereal, this product is primarily composed of carbohydrates, which are the body's preferred source of energy. The combination of rice and added sugar provides a quick release of glucose, offering a rapid energy boost. This can be useful for individuals needing immediate energy, such as before a short burst of activity, though sustained energy would require pairing with protein and fiber.
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal scores 19/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast food, often with milk. A common serving size is one cup. Due to its high added sugar content, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and frequency of consumption.
To improve the nutritional profile, pair with a source of protein like milk or yogurt and add fresh fruit for additional fiber and vitamins.
Consider mixing with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to dilute the added sugar and increase overall nutrient density.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to manage added sugar intake.
Measure out a single serving (1 cup) to avoid overconsumption, as large portions can quickly add up in sugar and calories.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal. With 42.9g of sugar per 100g, this product contributes significantly to daily sugar intake, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The ingredient list includes caramel color, which some individuals prefer to avoid. While generally recognized as safe, the ultra-processed nature of this cereal means it contains ingredients like canola oil and natural flavor, which are common in highly processed foods. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities should review the full ingredient list carefully.
MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal scores 19/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is not a nutritionally dense choice for regular consumption. Its primary nutritional drawback is the high amount of added sugar, which significantly outweighs the benefits from fortified iron and zinc. It is best considered an occasional food rather than a staple.
How does MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a plain, unsweetened rice cereal, MOM'S BEST CRISPY COCOA RICE Cereal contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. When compared to a brand like Cheerios, which often has less added sugar and more fiber, MOM'S BEST has a lower nutritional score. It falls into the category of highly sweetened, ultra-processed breakfast cereals.
What is 'cocoa (processed with alkali)'?
Cocoa processed with alkali, also known as Dutch-processed cocoa, means the cocoa beans have been treated to reduce their acidity. This process results in a darker color and a milder flavor compared to natural cocoa. Nutritionally, it may slightly reduce the antioxidant content compared to natural cocoa, but it is a common ingredient in chocolate-flavored products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The recommended serving size is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugar and calories. Consuming larger portions frequently would lead to a higher intake of added sugars than typically recommended for a balanced diet.
Can this cereal be part of a balanced diet?
While it can be included in a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature. To balance its nutritional profile, consider pairing it with nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruit, nuts, or a source of lean protein. It is not designed to be a primary source of daily nutrition.