Quaker Grits

by Pepsico

Basic processed corn grits with mandatory vitamin fortification. Relatively clean ingredient list but lacks fiber and nutrients due to processing. Better than many ultra-processed foods but nutritionally inferior to whole grains.

• White Hominy Grits Made from Corn – safe · Processed corn with hull and germ removed through alkali treatment. Safe but nutritionally depleted compared to whole corn.
• Niacin (One of the B Vitamins) – beneficial · Essential B vitamin added for fortification to replace nutrients lost during processing. Important for energy metabolism.
• Reduced Iron – beneficial · Iron fortification to prevent deficiency. Well-absorbed form that helps replace minerals lost in processing.
• Thiamin Mononitrate (One of the B Vitamins) – beneficial · Vitamin B1 fortification essential for nerve function and energy production. Synthetic but bioavailable form.
• Riboflavin (One of the B Vitamins) – beneficial · Vitamin B2 added for fortification. Important for cellular energy production and antioxidant function.
• Folic Acid (One of the B Vitamins) – beneficial · Synthetic form of folate required by FDA for grain fortification. Important for DNA synthesis and preventing birth defects.

Simple, recognizable ingredients

Fortified with essential B vitamins

No artificial additives or preservatives

Gluten-free grain option

Highly processed with nutrients stripped then added back

High glycemic index causes blood sugar spikes

Lacks fiber and natural nutrients of whole corn

Potential pesticide residue concerns