Sweetened Corn Puffs Cereal Fruit
by General Mills
A heavily processed cereal with sugar as the second ingredient, but redeemed somewhat by whole grain corn base and extensive vitamin fortification. Contains seed oils and synthetic additives that detract from overall healthiness.
- WHOLE GRAIN CORN – beneficial · Good source of fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Being the first ingredient is positive for nutritional value.
- SUGAR – controversial · Second ingredient indicates high sugar content, contributing to blood sugar spikes and potential metabolic issues.
- CORN MEAL – safe · Refined corn product that adds bulk and texture but lacks the fiber of whole grain corn.
- CORN SYRUP – controversial · High glycemic sweetener that can cause rapid blood sugar elevation and contribute to insulin resistance.
- CANOLA OIL – controversial · Highly processed seed oil that's prone to oxidation and may contribute to inflammation.
- SALT – safe · Standard sodium addition for taste enhancement, likely within reasonable limits for cereal.
- COLOR (VEGETABLE AND FRUIT JUICE, TURMERIC EXTRACT AND ANNATTO EXTRACT) – beneficial · Natural coloring agents from plants, much preferable to artificial food dyes.
- TRISODIUM PHOSPHATE – controversial · Chemical additive that can interfere with calcium absorption and may cause digestive irritation in sensitive individuals.
- NATURAL FLAVOR – safe · Undefined flavoring agent derived from natural sources, generally safe but lacks transparency.
- CITRIC ACID – safe · Natural preservative that's well-tolerated and helps maintain product freshness.
- MALIC ACID – safe · Natural acid found in fruits that adds tartness and is generally well-tolerated.
- CALCIUM CARBONATE – beneficial · Calcium fortification that supports bone health, though bioavailability may be limited.
- TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE – safe · Calcium and phosphorus source that's generally well-absorbed and supports bone health.
- ZINC – beneficial · Essential mineral fortification supporting immune function and metabolism.
- IRON – beneficial · Important mineral fortification, especially valuable for preventing iron deficiency anemia.
- VITAMIN C (SODIUM ASCORBATE) – beneficial · Antioxidant vitamin that supports immune function and collagen synthesis.
- NIACINAMIDE – beneficial · B-vitamin (B3) essential for energy metabolism and cellular function.
- VITAMIN B6 (PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE) – beneficial · Important for protein metabolism, brain function, and immune system support.
- VITAMIN B2 (RIBOFLAVIN) – beneficial · Essential B-vitamin for energy production and antioxidant function.
- VITAMIN B1 (THIAMIN MONONITRATE) – beneficial · Critical for carbohydrate metabolism and nervous system function.
- VITAMIN A (PALMITATE) – beneficial · Essential for vision, immune function, and cellular development.
- FOLIC ACID – beneficial · B-vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
- VITAMIN B12 – beneficial · Essential for nervous system function and red blood cell formation.
- VITAMIN D3 – beneficial · Important for bone health, immune function, and calcium absorption.
Whole grain corn as first ingredient
Extensive vitamin and mineral fortification
Natural coloring agents instead of artificial dyes
No artificial preservatives
Sugar as second ingredient
Contains corn syrup for additional sweetening
Canola oil (processed seed oil)
Ultra-processed with multiple additives
High glycemic impact
About This Analysis
This health analysis for Sweetened Corn Puffs Cereal Fruit 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