Why is Strawberry Cheerios Protein classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The cereal is deemed ultra‑processed because it includes refined ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, and concentrated fruit purees, along with added vitamins, colorings, and stabilisers. The label lists additives E340 (tripotassium phosphate), E306 (mixed tocopherols), and E340iii, which are typical of highly processed foods.

How does the high sugar and moderate salt content in this product affect diabetic or hypertensive diets?

The 32.4 g of sugar per 100 g can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for strict diabetic control, while the 1.42 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake and may exacerbate hypertension if consumed regularly.

Is Strawberry Cheerios Protein suitable for vegan, gluten‑free, or kosher diets?

The cereal is certified gluten‑free and kosher, and most of its main ingredients like oats, pea protein, and vegetable oils are vegan. However, a few components such as natural flavour, vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), and some colour additives have uncertain vegan status, so strict vegans should verify those ingredients.

General Mills • 15 oz

Strawberry Cheerios Protein

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

Strawberry Cheerios Protein is a breakfast cereal belonging to the Cereals and potatoes group, offering 21.6 g of protein and 5.4 g of fiber per 100 g. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified as NOVA 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed nature with added sugars, corn syrup, and several food additives. While it provides a notable protein boost, the product is high in added sugars (32.4 g/100 g) and contains moderate salt (1.42 g/100 g), which may offset some of its nutritional advantages.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal405 kcal

Added Sugars18.9 g

Vitamin C27 mg

Vitamin B60.7 mg

Iron9.7 mg

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast cereal, Strawberry Cheerios Protein contains far more sugar (32.4 g vs 14.1 g) and almost double the protein (21.6 g vs 10.2 g) while having slightly lower fat and salt levels.

Ingredients

Whole Grain Oats, Sugar, Pea Protein, Corn Starch, Strawberry Puree, Apple Puree Concentrate, Corn Syrup, Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Tripotassium Phosphate, Vegetable Juice Color, Fruit Juice Color, Natural Flavor, Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate), Iron, Zinc, Niacinamide, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), Vitamin B1 (thiamin mononitrate), Vitamin A (palmitate), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3.

84%

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