Spartan Oven Toasted Corn Squares Cereal
by Mcilhenny
A basic corn cereal with moderate processing and synthetic vitamin fortification. While free from seed oils and artificial sweeteners, it contains added sugar and the preservative BHT in packaging, making it an occasionally acceptable but not optimal breakfast choice.
- CORN MEAL – safe · Processed corn that forms the cereal base, though refined and stripped of some natural nutrients.
- SUGAR – controversial · Added refined sugar as the second ingredient contributes to blood sugar spikes and metabolic stress.
- SALT – safe · Standard table salt used for flavor enhancement in moderate amounts.
- CORN BRAN – beneficial · The outer layer of corn kernel providing fiber and some nutrients.
- MOLASSES – safe · Natural sweetener that provides some minerals like iron and potassium, though still contributes sugar.
- POTASSIUM CHLORIDE – safe · Salt substitute that provides potassium, an essential mineral for heart and muscle function.
- BAKING SODA – safe · Sodium bicarbonate used as a leavening agent to create texture in the cereal.
- CALCIUM CARBONATE – safe · Calcium supplement for bone health, commonly used in fortified foods.
- REDUCED IRON – safe · Iron supplement to prevent deficiency, though synthetic form may be less bioavailable than natural sources.
- ZINC OXIDE – safe · Zinc supplement for immune function and wound healing.
- SODIUM ASCORBATE – safe · Vitamin C supplement in sodium salt form for immune support and antioxidant function.
- NIACINAMIDE – safe · Vitamin B3 supplement important for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
- VITAMIN A PALMITATE – safe · Synthetic vitamin A for vision and immune health.
- PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE – safe · Vitamin B6 supplement for protein metabolism and neurotransmitter production.
- RIBOFLAVIN – safe · Vitamin B2 for energy production and cellular function.
- THIAMIN MONONITRATE – safe · Vitamin B1 for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function.
- FOLIC ACID – safe · Synthetic folate for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
- VITAMIN D – safe · Essential vitamin for bone health and immune function.
- VITAMIN B12 – safe · Important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
- BHT – controversial · Synthetic antioxidant preservative in packaging with potential endocrine disrupting properties.
No seed oils
Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals
Contains some fiber from corn bran
Simple ingredient list
No artificial colors or flavors
Added sugar as second ingredient
BHT preservative in packaging
Highly processed corn meal
Moderate blood sugar impact
Synthetic vitamin fortification rather than natural nutrients
About This Analysis
This ingredient analysis for Spartan Oven Toasted Corn Squares Cereal was performed by Truelabel, an AI-powered food scanner that grades products from A (excellent) to F (failing) based on ingredient quality. The analysis covers seed oil content, ultra-processed ingredients, preservatives, artificial colors, allergens, and potential health risks including cancer risk, hormonal disruption, and gut irritation scores.
Category: Cereal