FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainPEEPS· 1 1/3 cup

PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CHICK & BUNNY SHAPED CEREAL, MARSHMALLOW

PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CHICK & BUNNY SHAPED CEREAL scores 29/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar. While it contains some fortified micronutrients, the overall nutritional profile is significantly impacted by the sugar load.

  • This PEEPS cereal has a FoodScore of 29/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • It provides 5.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
  • A 100g serving contains 41g of added sugar, a primary factor in its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
  • Consider this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a regular breakfast staple.
  • Scores -18 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
5.1g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
5.13g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
41g
82% of Daily Value
Sodium
461.54mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.1g)+6
Protein (5.1g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (41g)-25
Sodium (461.5mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 29

PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CHICK & BUNNY SHAPED CEREAL receives a FoodScore of 29/100, largely driven by its high added sugar content. A 100g serving contains 41g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with "SUGAR" and includes corn syrup and dextrose, indicating multiple sources of sweeteners. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional -10 point penalty. While the cereal does offer some positive attributes, such as 5.1g of fiber per 100g (+6 points) and 5.1g of protein (+1 point), these are outweighed by the penalties. It is also fortified with several micronutrients, including 9.23mg of iron (51% DV), 96% DV of Vitamin B12, and 39% DV of Folate, contributing +8 points. However, when compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are typically low in added sugar and sodium and rich in whole grains, this PEEPS cereal presents a less favorable nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in peeps marshmallow flavored chick & bunny shaped cereal, marshmallow actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Fortified Micronutrients

This PEEPS cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, which can contribute to daily nutrient intake. A 100g serving provides 51% DV for iron, 96% DV for Vitamin B12, and 39% DV for Folate. These nutrients play roles in energy metabolism and red blood cell formation, making the cereal a source of these specific micronutrients, particularly for individuals who may have gaps in their diet.

Contribution to Fiber Intake

With 5.1g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to daily fiber recommendations. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote satiety. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a notable inclusion for a cereal of this type, which often contains minimal fiber. This can be a small part of a varied diet aimed at increasing overall fiber consumption.

Quick Energy Source

The carbohydrate content, particularly from sugars, provides a rapid source of energy. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as before certain physical activities, the readily available carbohydrates in this cereal can serve that purpose. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional context and balance this with other nutrient-dense foods.

How to eat it

PEEPS Marshmallow Flavored Cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast item with milk, or as a dry snack. The standard serving size is 1 1/3 cups, which is a common portion for cereals. Due to its high sugar content, it is best enjoyed in moderation.

To improve the nutritional balance, pair this cereal with unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based) and a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts.
Consider mixing a smaller portion of PEEPS cereal with a lower-sugar, higher-fiber cereal to reduce overall added sugar intake per bowl.
Use this cereal as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast to manage added sugar consumption in your diet.
Add fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced banana, to your bowl to increase fiber and micronutrient intake without adding more sugar.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in PEEPS MARSHMALLOW FLAVORED CHICK & BUNNY SHAPED CEREAL, with 41g per 100g. This amount contributes significantly to daily sugar limits and may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels or those aiming to reduce sugar intake. The product also contains several artificial colors, specifically Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which some individuals choose to avoid. The preservative BHT for freshness is also listed. Allergens include wheat, as indicated by "WHEAT FLOUR" in the ingredient list, which is relevant for individuals with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities.

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Reader questions
Is PEEPS Marshmallow Flavored Cereal healthy?
PEEPS Marshmallow Flavored Cereal has a FoodScore of 29/100, classifying it as an 'Avoid' food. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (41g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is fortified with some vitamins and minerals like iron and Vitamin B12, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does PEEPS cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a plain whole-grain cereal like original Cheerios, PEEPS cereal contains significantly more added sugar and artificial colors. For instance, original Cheerios typically have much lower added sugar per serving. PEEPS cereal is best viewed as a dessert-like cereal rather than a staple breakfast option for daily nutritional needs.
What is 'modified food starch' in this cereal?
Modified food starch is an ingredient used to improve the texture, stability, and shelf-life of processed foods. In PEEPS cereal, it likely contributes to the crispness and structure of the cereal pieces. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption, but it is a common component of many ultra-processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 1 1/3 cups. However, due to the high added sugar content, a smaller portion might be more appropriate, especially if consumed as part of a meal. Combining it with other nutrient-dense foods can help balance the meal's nutritional impact.
Does this cereal contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes "WHOLE GRAIN YELLOW CORN FLOUR" and "WHOLE GRAIN OAT FLOUR." This means the cereal does contain some whole grains, which contribute to its fiber content. However, sugar is the first ingredient, indicating it is present in a higher proportion than the whole grains.
Are the artificial colors in PEEPS cereal a concern?
PEEPS cereal contains artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals, particularly parents, choose to limit or avoid artificial colors in their diet due to potential sensitivities in certain populations. This is a personal dietary choice.

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