SPONGEBOB VANILLA FLAVORED CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, VANILLA
SPONGEBOB VANILLA FLAVORED CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, VANILLA receives a FoodScore of 36/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and ultra-processed nature.
This SPONGEBOB cereal scores 36/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 7.69g of fiber and 7.69g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 35.9g of added sugar per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from plain rolled oats.
Consider serving smaller portions and pairing with protein and fruit to enhance nutritional balance.
Scores -11 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
SPONGEBOB VANILLA FLAVORED CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, VANILLA earned a FoodScore of 36 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its high added sugar content, which stands at 35.9g per 100g, incurring a significant penalty. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. While it does contain 'WHOLE GRAIN OAT FLOUR' as a primary ingredient, contributing 7.69g of fiber and 7.69g of protein per 100g, these positive attributes are outweighed by other factors. The cereal is fortified with several micronutrients, including iron (64% DV), vitamin B12 (128% DV), and folate (51% DV) per 100g, which provide some bonus points. However, the presence of ingredients like corn syrup and dextrose alongside sugar contributes to the overall sweetness and caloric density. Compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, which are minimally processed and contain no added sugars, this SPONGEBOB cereal represents a less nutritionally dense option due to its formulation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in spongebob vanilla flavored cereal with marshmallows, vanilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Micronutrients
This SPONGEBOB cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, which can help address potential dietary gaps. Per 100g, it provides 64% DV for iron, 128% DV for vitamin B12, and 51% DV for folate. These nutrients play roles in energy metabolism and red blood cell formation. For individuals who may struggle to meet their daily requirements for these specific micronutrients through other foods, this cereal can contribute to their intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Contribution to Daily Fiber Intake
Despite its overall nutritional profile, this cereal offers a notable amount of fiber. With 7.69g of fiber per 100g, it can contribute to your daily fiber goals. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity. Including fiber-rich foods can also promote a feeling of fullness, which may assist with appetite regulation. The fiber content primarily comes from the whole grain oat flour and added oat fiber.
Provides Protein for Satiety
The cereal contains 7.69g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth. While not a primary protein source, the protein content in this cereal, especially when combined with milk, can help to make a meal more filling than a low-protein alternative. This can be beneficial for managing hunger between meals and supporting overall dietary balance.
SPONGEBOB VANILLA FLAVORED CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS, VANILLA receives a FoodScore of 36/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
This SPONGEBOB cereal is typically consumed as a breakfast food, often with milk. A common serving size is 1 1/3 cup, which can be a substantial portion. Due to its added sugar content, it's important to consider how it fits into your overall daily sugar intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this cereal with fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana and a source of protein such as plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts.
Consider using a smaller bowl or measuring your portion to manage the intake of added sugars and calories, especially if consuming multiple servings.
If you enjoy the flavor, try mixing a small amount of this cereal with a less processed, unsweetened whole-grain cereal like plain shredded wheat to dilute the added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several artificial colors, specifically YELLOW 6, YELLOW 5, RED 40, and BLUE 1. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals may choose to limit their intake of artificial food dyes. The ingredient list also notes 'CONTAINS 2% OR LESS OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR (CONTAINS MILK)', indicating the presence of milk as an allergen. Individuals with milk allergies should avoid this product. The cereal is also high in added sugars, which can be a concern for those managing blood sugar levels or aiming to reduce overall sugar intake. The presence of BHT for freshness is a synthetic antioxidant, which some consumers prefer to avoid.
Is SPONGEBOB VANILLA FLAVORED CEREAL WITH MARSHMALLOWS healthy?
With a FoodScore of 36/100 (Poor), this SPONGEBOB cereal is not considered a nutritionally optimal choice. Its score is significantly impacted by its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fortified micronutrients and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by other factors.
How does SPONGEBOB cereal compare to other breakfast cereals?
Compared to a generic plain rolled oats, which serves as a whole-grain baseline, this SPONGEBOB cereal has significantly more added sugar and is ultra-processed. When compared to other sweetened cereals like General Mills' Lucky Charms, the nutritional profiles can be similar in terms of added sugar and processing level. For a more nutritious breakfast, consider options with minimal added sugar and higher whole grain content.
What is 'WHOLE GRAIN OAT FLOUR' and why is it listed first?
WHOLE GRAIN OAT FLOUR is a flour made from oats that includes the bran, germ, and endosperm, meaning it contains all parts of the grain. It is listed first because ingredients are typically listed in descending order by weight. This indicates that whole grain oat flour is the most abundant ingredient in the cereal, contributing to its fiber and protein content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cereal?
The declared serving size is 1 1/3 cup. However, due to the high added sugar, a smaller portion, such as 1/2 to 1 cup, might be more appropriate for some individuals, especially children. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods can help create a more balanced meal.
Are the artificial colors in this cereal a concern?
This cereal contains artificial colors like YELLOW 6, YELLOW 5, RED 40, and BLUE 1. While these are approved by the FDA, some individuals, particularly parents, choose to limit or avoid artificial colors in their diet due to perceived sensitivities. There is ongoing research into the potential effects of food dyes on certain populations.