Cheerios Oat Cereal

by General Mills

A moderately processed breakfast cereal with whole grain oats as the primary ingredient, but contains added sugar and synthetic vitamins. While fortified with nutrients, the processing and sugar content prevent it from being optimal.

• Whole Grain Oats – beneficial · High in fiber and beta-glucan, which supports heart health and stable blood sugar levels.
• Corn Starch – safe · A processed starch used for binding and texture, nutritionally neutral but adds refinement.
• Sugar – controversial · Added sugar contributes to blood sugar spikes and provides empty calories without nutritional benefit.
• Salt – safe · Small amount used for flavor enhancement, within reasonable limits for most people.
• Tripotassium Phosphate – safe · Food-grade phosphate salt used as a stabilizer and pH buffer, generally recognized as safe.
• Wheat Starch – safe · Refined starch from wheat used for binding, adds gluten allergen concern but otherwise safe.
• Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols) – beneficial · Natural antioxidant that preserves freshness while providing vitamin E benefits.
• Calcium Carbonate – beneficial · Essential mineral supplement for bone health, well-absorbed form of calcium.
• Iron – beneficial · Essential mineral for oxygen transport and energy metabolism, addresses common deficiency.
• Zinc – beneficial · Important trace mineral for immune function and wound healing.
• Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate) – beneficial · Essential antioxidant vitamin in a stable, bioavailable form.
• Niacinamide – beneficial · Vitamin B3 essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) – beneficial · Essential B vitamin for protein metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
• Vitamin A (Palmitate) – beneficial · Essential fat-soluble vitamin for vision and immune function in stable form.
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamin Mononitrate) – beneficial · Essential B vitamin for carbohydrate metabolism and nervous system function.
• Folic Acid – beneficial · Essential B vitamin for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation, especially important for pregnant women.
• Vitamin B12 – beneficial · Essential vitamin for nervous system function and red blood cell formation.
• Vitamin D3 – beneficial · Essential hormone-like vitamin for bone health and immune function.

Whole grain oats as primary ingredient

Comprehensive vitamin and mineral fortification

Beta-glucan fiber for heart health

No artificial colors or flavors

Added sugar contributing to blood sugar spikes

Processed starches as fillers

Potential glyphosate residues

Ultra-processed despite whole grain content