PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL scores 29/100 (Avoid) due to its high **added sugar** content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
This cereal has a FoodScore of 29/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 31.38g of added sugar per 100g, a primary factor in its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain rolled oats, PEEPS cereal has considerably more added sugar and sodium.
Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple.
Scores -18 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.4g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
3.45g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.38g
63% of Daily Value
Sodium
413.79mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.4g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.4g)-25
Sodium (413.8mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 29
PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 29/100, primarily driven by its significant added sugar content. With 31.38g of added sugar per 100g, this contributes a substantial -25 penalty to the overall score. The product is also categorized as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional -10 penalty. While it does contain some beneficial micronutrients, such as 12.41mg of iron (69% DV), 4.14mg of zinc (38% DV), and high levels of Vitamin A (153% DV) and Vitamin B12 (173% DV), these bonuses (+12) are not enough to offset the penalties. The presence of corn syrup as an ingredient further contributes to the high sugar load. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, PEEPS cereal contains significantly more added sugar and sodium (413.79mg per 100g), and less fiber. The 3.4g of fiber per 100g provides a modest +3 bonus, but the overall nutritional density is low.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in peeps marshmallow flavored cereal, marshmallow actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Iron
PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL is fortified with iron, providing 12.41mg per 100g, which is 69% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. For individuals who may struggle to meet their iron needs through other dietary sources, fortified cereals can contribute to daily intake, supporting overall health.
Good Source of Zinc
This cereal offers 4.14mg of zinc per 100g, meeting 38% of the Daily Value. Zinc is crucial for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Including foods fortified with zinc can help ensure adequate intake of this important trace mineral, which plays a role in numerous bodily processes and cellular health.
Contains Essential Vitamins
PEEPS cereal is fortified with several vitamins, including Vitamin A (153% DV), Vitamin C (46% DV), and Vitamin B12 (173% DV) per 100g. These vitamins support various bodily functions, such as vision and immune health (Vitamin A and C) and nerve function and red blood cell formation (Vitamin B12). Fortification helps address potential dietary gaps for these micronutrients.
PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL scores 29/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
How to eat it
This cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often with milk. Given its high sugar content, it is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. A common portion size is 1 cup.
To reduce the overall sugar intake, consider mixing PEEPS cereal with a lower-sugar, plain whole-grain cereal like unsweetened shredded wheat.
Pair with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a serving of Greek yogurt, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Use as an occasional topping for plain yogurt or fruit rather than a full bowl to control portion size and added sugar.
Serve with fresh fruit to add natural sweetness and additional fiber and vitamins to your meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL, which is 31.38g per 100g. This can contribute to excessive sugar intake if consumed regularly. The ingredient list also includes several artificial colors such as Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which some individuals, particularly children, may choose to limit in their diet. The cereal contains wheat flour and oat flour, meaning it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Additionally, the presence of gelatin means this product is not vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL scores 29/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. Its high added sugar content (31.38g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food are the primary reasons for this score. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals, these do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks for regular consumption.
How does PEEPS cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a whole-grain option like plain Cheerios, PEEPS cereal has significantly more added sugar and artificial colors. While both are fortified, plain Cheerios offers more whole grains and less added sugar, making it a more nutritionally dense choice for daily consumption. PEEPS cereal is more comparable to other dessert-like cereals in terms of its sugar profile.
What is 'corn flour blend' in the ingredients?
The 'corn flour blend' in PEEPS cereal consists of both whole grain yellow corn flour and degerminated yellow corn flour. While whole grain corn flour contributes some fiber and nutrients, the degerminated variety has had the germ and bran removed, reducing its nutritional value. This blend contributes to the cereal's texture and bulk.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. Given the high added sugar content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even smaller if consumed frequently. For children, a smaller portion may be more appropriate to manage sugar intake within daily limits. Consider it an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast.
Are the artificial colors in PEEPS cereal a concern?
PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CEREAL contains artificial colors such as Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6. While approved by regulatory bodies, some individuals, particularly parents of young children, choose to limit or avoid artificial food colors due to potential sensitivities. These colors contribute to the product's visual appeal but offer no nutritional benefit.