FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainOHS!· 1 cup

OHS! HONEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH HONEY, HONEY

OHS! HONEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH HONEY, HONEY scores 22/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.

  • OHS! cereal receives a FoodScore of 22/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
  • A single serving contains 45g of added sugar per 100g, significantly impacting its nutritional profile.
  • This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
  • It provides 100% DV of iron and 51% DV of zinc per 100g, contributing to micronutrient intake.
  • Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
  • Scores -25 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45g
90% of Daily Value
Sodium
600mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Folate)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (45g)-25
Sodium (600mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 22

OHS! HONEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH HONEY, HONEY receives a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, largely driven by its significant added sugar content and ultra-processed nature. Per 100g, this cereal contains 45g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list confirms multiple sources of sweeteners, including sugar, molasses, corn syrup, and honey. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, results in a -10 point penalty. The cereal also contains 600mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -2 point penalty. On the positive side, it receives bonuses for its fiber content (2.5g, +2 points), protein (5g, +1 point), and micronutrients, specifically iron (18mg, 100% DV), zinc (5.62mg, 51% DV), and folate (15% DV), which collectively add 6 points. Compared to plain rolled oats, which serve as a whole-grain breakfast baseline, OHS! cereal has considerably more added sugar and is more processed.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in ohs! honey sweetened cereal with honey, honey actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

OHS! cereal is fortified with iron, providing 18mg per 100g, which is 100% 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 be a practical way to contribute to daily iron needs, particularly for individuals who may struggle to obtain sufficient iron from other dietary sources, such as those following vegetarian diets.

Contribution to Zinc Intake

This cereal offers 5.62mg of zinc per 100g, meeting 51% of the Daily Value. Zinc is a vital trace mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including immune system support, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. For individuals looking to increase their zinc intake, fortified cereals like OHS! can serve as a supplementary source, though a varied diet rich in whole foods remains the primary recommendation for nutrient acquisition.

Provides Some Fiber

OHS! cereal contains 2.5g of fiber per 100g. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can still contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Pairing this cereal with other fiber-rich foods, such as fruits or nuts, can further enhance its overall fiber contribution.

How to eat it

Cereal is a common breakfast item in the US, often consumed with milk. This type of cereal is typically eaten in a bowl, sometimes with added fruit. Due to its high added sugar content, portion control is key.

To reduce added sugar intake, mix OHS! cereal with an unsweetened whole-grain cereal like plain shredded wheat or puffed rice.
Pair with fresh fruit (berries, sliced banana) and a source of protein (Greek yogurt, milk, or nuts) to add nutrients and increase satiety.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 1-cup serving (approximately 38g) contains a significant amount of added sugar. Consider smaller servings.
Use as an occasional topping for yogurt or oatmeal to add a touch of sweetness and crunch, rather than as a primary meal component.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in OHS! cereal, which comes from multiple sources including sugar, molasses, corn syrup, and honey. The presence of artificial colors like Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 may be a concern for some individuals, particularly parents of children sensitive to food dyes. While the product is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, the overall nutritional profile is dominated by refined grains and added sugars. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consider the impact of the 45g of added sugar per 100g on their dietary goals. The product also contains palm oil, which some consumers may wish to limit.

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Reader questions
Is OHS! HONEY SWEETENED CEREAL WITH HONEY, HONEY healthy?
OHS! cereal scores 22/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category on FoodScore. While it is fortified with iron and zinc, its high added sugar content (45g per 100g) and ultra-processed nature mean it does not align with dietary guidelines for a healthy daily staple. It is best considered an occasional food.
How does OHS! cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain, unsweetened cereal like plain Cheerios or plain rolled oats, OHS! cereal has a significantly higher amount of added sugar and is more processed. While it offers fortification, its overall nutritional density is lower due to the refined ingredients. Many other cereals in the market also contain high amounts of added sugar.
What is 'artificial flavor' in OHS! cereal?
Artificial flavor in OHS! cereal refers to flavorings that are not derived from natural sources. These are created in a lab to mimic specific tastes. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some consumers prefer to limit intake of products containing artificial ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for OHS! cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. However, given the 45g of added sugar per 100g, a smaller portion, perhaps half a cup, might be more appropriate for those monitoring sugar intake. Pairing it with unsweetened components can help balance the meal.
Does OHS! cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, OHS! cereal lists whole grain oat flour and whole grain brown rice flour in its ingredients. However, corn flour and sugar are listed before these whole grains, indicating they are present in smaller quantities than the primary ingredients. The overall whole grain content is not the dominant feature.

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Data & references