Quaker Life Cinnamon Multigrain Cereal
by Pepsico
A heavily processed cereal with whole grains as positives but loaded with artificial colors, preservatives, and added sugar. The multiple synthetic dyes and BHT preservative raise health concerns, especially for children.
- WHOLE GRAIN OAT FLOUR – beneficial · Nutritious whole grain providing fiber, protein, and B vitamins with good blood sugar stability.
- SUGAR – controversial · Second ingredient by weight, contributing to blood sugar spikes and empty calories in a breakfast cereal.
- CORN FLOUR – safe · Refined grain flour providing carbohydrates but minimal nutrients compared to whole grain versions.
- WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR – beneficial · Whole grain providing fiber, protein, and B vitamins, though potential gluten sensitivity concern.
- RICE FLOUR – safe · Gluten-free grain flour providing carbohydrates with neutral nutritional profile.
- CALCIUM CARBONATE – safe · Common calcium supplement for bone health, well-tolerated by most people.
- SALT – safe · Sodium chloride for taste enhancement, present in moderate amounts.
- CINNAMON – beneficial · Natural spice with antioxidant properties and potential blood sugar benefits.
- DISODIUM PHOSPHATE – safe · Food additive used as a leavening agent and texture modifier, generally recognized as safe.
- NATURAL FLAVOR – safe · Derived from natural sources but processed, specific ingredients not disclosed.
- CARAMEL COLOR – controversial · May contain 4-methylimidazole, a potential carcinogen formed during manufacturing process.
- DEXTRIN – safe · Modified starch used as a thickener and stabilizer, generally well-tolerated.
- REDUCED IRON – beneficial · Iron fortification to prevent deficiency, important for oxygen transport and energy.
- YELLOW 6 – controversial · Synthetic food dye linked to hyperactivity in children and potential allergic reactions.
- NIACINAMIDE – beneficial · Vitamin B3 supplement supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function.
- BHT – controversial · Synthetic antioxidant preservative with concerns about hormone disruption and potential carcinogenicity.
- ZINC OXIDE – beneficial · Essential mineral supplement supporting immune function and wound healing.
- YELLOW 5 – controversial · Synthetic food dye that may cause hyperactivity and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
- RED 40 – controversial · Most widely used synthetic food dye with links to behavioral issues and potential cancer concerns.
- THIAMIN MONONITRATE – beneficial · Vitamin B1 supplement essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
- RIBOFLAVIN – beneficial · Vitamin B2 supporting energy production and cellular function.
- PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE – beneficial · Vitamin B6 supplement important for protein metabolism and brain function.
- BLUE 1 – controversial · Synthetic food dye with potential links to hyperactivity and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- FOLIC ACID – beneficial · Essential B vitamin for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation, especially important for women.
Whole grain oat flour first ingredient
Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals
Contains anti-inflammatory cinnamon
Provides some fiber
Four artificial food dyes
BHT preservative
Added sugar as second ingredient
Highly processed
Potential glyphosate residues