NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**. The NILLA brand product is an ultra-processed grain item.
This NILLA cereal scores 24/100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption.
The product contains 45g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
It provides 88% DV of iron and 34% DV of zinc per 100g, contributing to its micronutrient bonuses.
Compared to plain rolled oats, this cereal is significantly higher in added sugars and is ultra-processed (NOVA 4).
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -23 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45g
90% of Daily Value
Sodium
375mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Zinc, Folate)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (45g)-25
Sodium (375mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 24
NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL achieved a FoodScore of 24 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high amount of added sugar, which stands at 45g per 100g, resulting in a substantial -25 penalty. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, further contributes a -10 penalty. While the cereal does offer some nutritional benefits, these are outweighed by the penalties. It receives +2 points for its 2.5g of fiber per 100g and +8 points for its micronutrient content, including 15% DV of calcium, 88% DV of iron, 34% DV of zinc, and 15% DV of folate per 100g. The sodium content of 375mg per 100g incurs a minor -1 penalty. Ingredients like sugar, marshmallows, and corn syrup are primary contributors to the high sugar load. In contrast, a baseline like plain rolled oats contains no added sugar and is not ultra-processed, highlighting the significant difference in nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nilla banana pudding cereal, banana pudding actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This NILLA cereal provides a significant amount of iron, with 15.8mg per 100g, which is 88% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Including iron-rich foods can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. For individuals who may struggle to meet their iron needs from other sources, this product can contribute to daily intake, though it should be considered within the context of its overall nutritional profile.
Source of Zinc
NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL offers 3.75mg of zinc per 100g, fulfilling 34% of the Daily Value. Zinc is a vital trace mineral that plays a key role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Adequate zinc intake is important for maintaining overall health and supporting various bodily processes. While this cereal provides a notable amount of zinc, it is important to balance its consumption with other nutrient-dense foods to ensure a comprehensive dietary intake.
Contains B Vitamins
This cereal is fortified with several B vitamins, including niacinamide (Vitamin B3), thiamin mononitrate (Vitamin B1), calcium pantothenate (Vitamin B5), and pyridoxine hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), along with folic acid (folate). These B vitamins are essential for metabolism, helping the body convert food into energy. They also play roles in nerve function and red blood cell formation. Fortified cereals can be a convenient way to contribute to daily B vitamin intake, particularly for those who may have limited dietary sources.
NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content. The NILLA brand product is an ultra-processed grain item.
How to eat it
NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. Given its sweet profile, it can also be eaten as a snack. A common portion size is 1 1/4 cups, but it's important to be mindful of the added sugar content when incorporating it into your diet.
To reduce the overall sugar impact, consider mixing this cereal with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber plain cereal.
Pair with a source of protein, such as plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts, to help increase satiety.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to manage added sugar intake.
Add fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries to boost fiber and micronutrient content without adding more sugar.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL, which is 45g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes artificial colors such as Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which some individuals may choose to avoid. The product also contains gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. While the cereal is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, these are added to a base of corn flour and sugar, making it an ultra-processed food.
NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL received a FoodScore of 24/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content (45g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals, these do not outweigh the nutritional concerns.
How does NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to plain, unsweetened rolled oats, NILLA BANANA PUDDING CEREAL is significantly higher in added sugars and is an ultra-processed food. When compared to other sweetened cereals like Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, the added sugar content of NILLA is also high. It offers some fortification with iron and zinc, which may be comparable to other fortified cereals, but its overall nutritional profile is less favorable due to the sugar and processing.
What is 'corn flour' in this cereal?
Corn flour is a finely ground flour made from dried corn. In this cereal, it serves as a primary base ingredient. While corn itself can be a whole grain, corn flour in this context is often refined, contributing to the cereal's texture and bulk but not significantly to its fiber content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 1/4 cup. However, given the high added sugar content, a smaller portion might be more appropriate for those monitoring their sugar intake. Pairing a smaller portion with other nutrient-dense foods can help create a more balanced meal.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes whole grain oat flour. However, it is not the primary ingredient, as corn flour and sugar are listed before it. While the presence of whole grain oat flour contributes to the fiber content, the overall formulation with significant added sugars and other refined ingredients means it is not predominantly a whole-grain product.