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

The cereal is labeled NOVA 4 because it undergoes industrial processing that adds refined sugars, malt flavoring and a vitamin‑mineral fortification blend; although the label lists zero additives, the malt flavoring and the added vitamins are considered processing aids that qualify the product as ultra‑processed.

How does the sugar and salt content in Special K Classic affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 15 g of sugar per 100 g, the cereal can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable as a primary staple for people managing diabetes; the 1 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake but is below the average cereal level, so its impact on hypertension is moderate but still worth monitoring.

Is the wheat in Special K Classic a concern for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes, the product contains wheat and barley, both sources of gluten, so it is not safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Kellogg's • 500 g

Special K Classic

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

Special K Classic is a breakfast cereal classified under the PNNS groups "Cereals and potatoes" and "Breakfast cereals". It carries a Nutri-Score of C and is placed in NOVA group 4, indicating an ultra‑processed product with added sugars, malt flavoring and fortified vitamins and minerals; it provides 9 g protein and 4.5 g fiber per 100 g but also contains 15 g of sugar and 1 g of salt. While it is a good source of iron and vitamins B12 and D, the high sugar level and its ultra‑processed nature are nutritional drawbacks.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal375 kcal

Fat1.5 g

Saturated Fat0.3 g

Carbohydrates79 g

Sugars15 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast cereal, Special K Classic has much lower fat (1.5 g vs 8.97 g) and salt (1 g vs 1.77 g) but higher sugar (15 g vs 14.13 g), more carbohydrates (79 g vs 63.94 g), less fiber (4.5 g vs 8.26 g) and slightly less protein (9 g vs 10.15 g).

Ingredients

Riz (46 %), _blé_ complet (37 %), sucre, _orge_ (5%), farine de malt d'_orge_ (3.5 %), arôme de malt d'_orge_, sel, vitamines (Niacine, B2, B1, B6, acide folique, D, B12), minéraux (fer et zinc)

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Special K Classic.

Kellogg's

335 g