Why is Multi Grain Cheerios classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and which additives does it contain?

It is considered ultra‑processed because the grains are refined, sugars and golden syrup are added, and the product undergoes extrusion and coating steps; the label lists additives including trisodium phosphate (E339iii), monoglycerides, caramel colour (E150), annatto colour (E160b), calcium carbonate and tocopherols used as antioxidants.

How does the high sugar and moderate salt content of Multi Grain Cheerios affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

The 20 g of sugar per 100 g can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, requiring portion control for diabetics, while the 1.33 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake and may raise blood pressure, so individuals with hypertension should limit servings.

Is the oat ingredient in Multi Grain Cheerios a concern for people with gluten sensitivity?

The cereal contains whole‑grain oats, which are naturally gluten‑free but are often processed in facilities that handle wheat, barley or rye, so cross‑contamination can occur and the product may not be safe for those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Cheerios

Multi Grain Cheerios

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

Multi Grain Cheerios is a plant‑based breakfast cereal belonging to the Cereals and potatoes and Breakfast cereals groups. It delivers a high fiber content of 10 g per 100 g and lower saturated fat and salt than typical cereals, but it also contains 20 g of sugar per 100 g, modest protein (6.7 g) and a calorie count of 400 kcal, resulting in a Nutri‑Score of D and an ultra‑processed NOVA 4 classification. The formulation includes several additives such as trisodium phosphate (E339iii), monoglycerides, caramel (E150) and annatto colour, which contribute to its processing level.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal400 kcal

Fat5 g

Saturated Fat1 g

Carbohydrates80 g

Sugars20 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast cereal, this Cheerios variant contains considerably more sugar (20 g vs 14.13 g per 100 g) and less fat (5 g vs 8.97 g) and salt (1.33 g vs 1.77 g), while offering higher fiber (10 g vs 8.26 g) and slightly higher calories (400 kcal vs 389.1 kcal).

Ingredients

whole grain oats, whole grain corn, sugar and/or golden sugar, corn starch, brown rice flour, corn bran, whole millet flour, whole sorghum flour, golden syrup, salt, calcium carbonate, trisodium phosphate, monoglycerides, caramel and annatto colour, tocopherols vitamins , minerals: iron, niacinamide (vitamin b3), calcium pantothenate (vitamin b5), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin b6), folate, contains oat ingredients,

84%

35%

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