Multi Grain Cheerios + Ancient Grains Cereal

by General Mills

A moderately processed cereal with multiple whole grains and ancient grains, but containing 9 grams of sugar per serving and several additives. Better than many cereals due to whole grain content, but the sugar load and processing level prevent it from being a top choice.

• Whole Grain Oats – beneficial · Nutrient-dense whole grain providing fiber, protein, and beta-glucan for heart health and blood sugar stability.
• Whole Grain Corn – safe · Whole grain providing carbohydrates and some nutrients, though less nutrient-dense than oats.
• Sugar – controversial · Refined sugar contributing to blood sugar spikes and potential metabolic issues when consumed regularly.
• Kamut Brand Khorasan Wheat – beneficial · Ancient wheat variety with higher protein and mineral content than modern wheat, offering better nutritional profile.
• Spelt – beneficial · Ancient grain with higher protein and B-vitamin content than modern wheat, easier to digest for some people.
• Corn Starch – safe · Refined starch used for texture, provides empty calories but generally considered safe.
• Corn Bran – beneficial · Fiber-rich outer layer of corn providing digestive benefits and nutrient density.
• Whole Grain Rice – safe · Whole grain providing carbohydrates and some nutrients, gluten-free option in the mix.
• Whole Grain Sorghum – beneficial · Nutrient-dense ancient grain high in antioxidants, protein, and fiber, naturally gluten-free.
• Whole Grain Millet – beneficial · Alkaline ancient grain rich in magnesium and phosphorus, supports heart health and blood sugar control.
• Refiner's Syrup – controversial · Concentrated sugar syrup contributing to total sugar content and potential blood sugar spikes.
• Salt – safe · Essential mineral in moderate amounts, helps enhance flavor of the cereal.
• Maple Syrup – safe · Natural sweetener with trace minerals, but still contributes to total sugar content.
• Tripotassium Phosphate – safe · Food additive used as pH buffer and emulsifier, generally recognized as safe by FDA.
• Caramel Color – controversial · Coloring agent that may contain trace amounts of 4-methylimidazole, a potential carcinogen in high doses.
• Annatto Extract – safe · Natural coloring derived from annatto seeds, generally safe with antioxidant properties.
• Mixed Tocopherols – beneficial · Natural vitamin E compounds used as antioxidant preservatives, provide additional nutritional benefits.
• Calcium Carbonate – beneficial · Calcium supplement supporting bone health and meeting daily calcium requirements.
• Zinc – beneficial · Essential mineral supporting immune function and wound healing.
• Iron – beneficial · Essential mineral preventing iron deficiency anemia, especially important for children and women.
• Niacinamide – beneficial · Vitamin B3 supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function.
• Calcium Pantothenate – beneficial · Vitamin B5 supporting energy metabolism and hormone production.
• Sodium Ascorbate – beneficial · Stable form of vitamin C supporting immune function and collagen synthesis.
• Pyridoxine Hydrochloride – beneficial · Vitamin B6 supporting protein metabolism and neurotransmitter production.
• Riboflavin – beneficial · Vitamin B2 supporting energy metabolism and cellular function.
• Thiamin Mononitrate – beneficial · Vitamin B1 supporting nervous system function and energy metabolism.
• Vitamin A Palmitate – beneficial · Stable form of vitamin A supporting vision, immune function, and cell growth.
• Folic Acid – beneficial · B vitamin essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation, especially important during pregnancy.
• Vitamin B12 – beneficial · Essential vitamin supporting nervous system function and red blood cell formation.
• Vitamin D3 – beneficial · Essential vitamin supporting bone health and immune function.

Multiple whole grains provide fiber and nutrients

Ancient grains like kamut and spelt offer superior nutrition

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals

No artificial colors or flavors

Contains beneficial antioxidants from grains

9 grams of added sugar per serving

Moderate processing level

Potential glyphosate residue concerns

Ancient grains are minor components despite marketing emphasis

Caramel color may contain trace carcinogens