Why is Special K classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

Special K is labelled NOVA 4 because its formulation relies on refined whole‑grain wheat and rice, added sugars, a malt flavouring, brown‑sugar syrup (≤2 %), and a vitamin‑mineral premix that includes beta‑carotene (which may be derived from palm oil), vitamin E acetate, niacinamide, and other fortified nutrients; these ingredients and the extrusion cooking process make it an ultra‑processed product.

How does the high sugar and moderate salt content of Special K affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

The 28 g of sugars per 100 g can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making the cereal unsuitable for tight diabetic control, while the 1.6 g of salt contributes to daily sodium intake and may raise blood pressure, so individuals with hypertension should limit their portions.

Is Special K suitable for a vegan or gluten‑free diet?

All ingredients are plant‑based, so the cereal is vegan‑friendly, but it contains wheat and wheat bran, which provide gluten; therefore it is not suitable for a gluten‑free diet.

Kellogg's, Special K • 331 g

Special k

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

Special K is a plant‑based breakfast cereal from Kellogg's that falls under the "Cereals and potatoes" food group. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), reflecting its use of refined grains, added sugars and flavourings. While it supplies 7.7 g of protein and 7.7 g of fiber per 100 g, it also contains 28 g of sugars and 1.6 g of salt, giving it a mixed nutritional profile.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal359 kcal

Fat1.3 g

Saturated Fat0 g

Trans Fat0 g

Monounsaturated Fat0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast cereal, Special K contains roughly twice the sugar, markedly less fat, and slightly below‑average salt.

Ingredients

whole grain wheat, rice, sugar, freeze-dried strawberries, wheat bran, contains 2% or less of brown sugar syrup, salt, malt flavor, vitamins and minerals: vitamin c (ascorbic acid), reduced iron, vitamin e acetate, niacinamide, beta-carotene, vitamin b6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), vitamin b1 (thiamin hydrochloride), vitamin b2 (riboflavin), folic acid, vitamin d3, vitamin b12,

84%

35%

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