Multi Grain Lightly Sweetened Cereal

by Cheerios

A moderately processed multi-grain cereal with decent whole grain content but undermined by added sugars and synthetic fortification. Better than highly processed cereals but still contains refined sweeteners and industrial additives.

• WHOLE GRAIN OATS – beneficial · Excellent source of beta-glucan fiber which helps lower cholesterol and provides sustained energy.
• WHOLE GRAIN CORN – safe · Provides carbohydrates and some fiber, though less nutritionally dense than oats.
• SUGAR – controversial · Added refined sugar increases blood glucose response and provides empty calories.
• CORN STARCH – safe · Refined carbohydrate used for binding and texture, minimal nutritional value.
• WHOLE GRAIN RICE – safe · Adds variety to grain profile and some B vitamins, though less fiber than other grains.
• CORN BRAN – beneficial · High-fiber outer layer of corn kernel that supports digestive health.
• WHOLE GRAIN SORGHUM – beneficial · Ancient grain rich in antioxidants and naturally gluten-free.
• WHOLE GRAIN MILLET – beneficial · Nutrient-dense ancient grain with good protein content and minerals.
• BROWN SUGAR SYRUP – controversial · Concentrated sugar syrup that spikes blood glucose despite minimal molasses content.
• SALT – safe · Moderate amount for flavor enhancement, not excessive for cereal category.
• TRIPOTASSIUM PHOSPHATE – controversial · Food additive used as pH buffer, generally safe but represents industrial processing.
• CARAMEL COLOR – controversial · Some forms may contain trace 4-methylimidazole, though risk is considered low at typical consumption levels.
• ANNATTO EXTRACT – safe · Natural coloring from annatto seeds, generally well-tolerated.
• MIXED TOCOPHEROLS – beneficial · Natural vitamin E compounds that prevent rancidity and provide antioxidant benefits.
• CALCIUM CARBONATE – safe · Synthetic calcium fortification to support bone health.
• IRON – safe · Essential mineral fortification to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
• ZINC – safe · Important mineral for immune function and wound healing.
• NIACINAMIDE – safe · Vitamin B3 fortification supporting energy metabolism.
• SODIUM ASCORBATE – safe · Vitamin C fortification in sodium salt form for stability.
• CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE – safe · Vitamin B5 fortification supporting energy metabolism.
• PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE – safe · Vitamin B6 fortification supporting protein metabolism and brain function.
• RIBOFLAVIN – safe · Vitamin B2 fortification supporting cellular energy production.
• THIAMIN MONONITRATE – safe · Vitamin B1 fortification supporting nervous system function.
• FOLIC ACID – safe · Synthetic folate fortification important for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
• VITAMIN B12 – safe · Essential vitamin fortification supporting nerve function and red blood cell formation.
• VITAMIN A PALMITATE – safe · Fat-soluble vitamin A fortification supporting vision and immune function.
• VITAMIN D3 – safe · Essential vitamin fortification supporting bone health and immune function.

Multiple whole grains provide diverse nutrients and fiber

Good source of beta-glucan fiber from oats

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals

No artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup

Contains beneficial ancient grains like millet and sorghum

Contains two forms of added sugar despite 'lightly sweetened' claim

Processed with industrial additives like tripotassium phosphate

Caramel coloring may contain trace carcinogenic compounds

Ultra-processed (NOVA Class 4) food product

Potential glyphosate residue contamination from conventional grains