Why does SPECIAL K receive a Nutri‑Score of C, and which nutrients drive this rating?

The C rating stems mainly from its high sugar level (15 g per 100 g) and moderate salt (0.82 g), which add negative points, while its low fat (1.3 g) and modest saturated fat (0.3 g) provide some positive points, resulting in an overall score of 9.

How might the sugar and salt content of SPECIAL K affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

The 15 g of sugar can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it less suitable for diabetic diets, and the 0.8 g of salt contributes to daily sodium intake, which may raise blood pressure for those with hypertension, so portion control or alternative lower‑sugar cereals are advisable.

Is SPECIAL K suitable for vegan, gluten‑free, or dairy‑free diets?

No. Although many ingredients are plant‑based, the cereal contains gluten from wheat and barley and is labeled with possible milk traces, so it is not gluten‑free or dairy‑free, and the presence of milk allergens also means it is not suitable for a vegan diet.

Kellogg's • 440g

SPECIAL K The Original

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

SPECIAL K The Original is a plant‑based breakfast cereal classified in the “Cereals and potatoes” PNNS group, offering 8 g of protein and 6 g of fiber per 100 g. It carries a Nutri‑Score of C and belongs to NOVA group 3, indicating a moderately processed product, but it is high in sugars (15 g) and contains 0.8 g of salt, which may be a concern for those monitoring sugar or sodium intake. The cereal is certified Kosher, contains gluten and traces of milk, and provides 393 kcal per 100 g, making it suitable for a quick energy boost yet requiring mindful portion control.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal393 kcal

Fat1.3 g

Saturated Fat0.3 g

Carbohydrates84 g

Sugars15 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast cereal, SPECIAL K has markedly lower fat, salt and protein but slightly higher sugar and energy content.

Ingredients

(EN) CRUNCHY RICE, WHOLEWHEAT AND BARLEY FLAKES FORTIFIED WITH VITAMINS AND IRON. INGREDIENTS: Rice (47%), wholewheat (37%), sugar, barley (5%), malted barley flour, salt, barley malt extract, niacin, iron, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin D, vitamin B12. For allergens see ingredients highlighted in bold. May contain gluten from other cereals, milk. Best before: see top. Store in a cool, dry place.

84%

35%

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