Why is Corn Flakes classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 3) and what specific additives does it contain?

The cereal undergoes industrial extrusion and includes added sugar, salt, a malt extract from barley, an emulsifier (mono‑ and diglycerides of fatty acids), fortified vitamins, iron and a tocopherol‑rich antioxidant extract, all of which qualify it as ultra-processed under the NOVA classification.

How does the sugar and salt content in Corn Flakes affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 7.1 g of sugar per 100 g, the cereal can raise blood glucose levels and should be eaten in limited portions by people with diabetes; the 1 g of salt contributes to daily sodium intake and may be a concern for those managing hypertension, so portion control and pairing with low‑salt foods are advisable.

Is the barley malt extract in Corn Flakes a concern for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes, the malt extract is derived from barley and contains gluten, making the product unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Nacional

Corn Flakes

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

Corn Flakes are a plant-based breakfast cereal made mainly of corn (90%) with added sugar, salt, barley malt extract, an emulsifier, vitamins and minerals. The product carries a Nutri-Score of C, belongs to NOVA group 3, and its nutritional profile shows low fat (1.1 g), low saturated fat (0.5 g), moderate sugar (7.1 g) and salt (1 g) per 100 g, while providing 6 g protein and 3.4 g fiber. It contains gluten from the barley malt extract and may have traces of tree‑nut residues, which are relevant for consumers with specific allergies.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

moderate

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal378 kcal

Fat1.1 g

Saturated Fat0.5 g

Carbohydrates84 g

Sugars7.1 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average breakfast-cereal values, Corn Flakes contain far less fat (1.1 g vs 8.97 g), less sugar (7.1 g vs 14.13 g) and lower salt (1 g vs 1.77 g) per 100 g, while providing slightly more protein and carbs.

Ingredients

Maíz (90%), azúcar, sal, extracto de malta de CEBADA (gluten), emulgente (mono y diglicéridos de ácidos grasos), vitaminas (tiamina (B1), riboflavina (B2), niacina (B3), ácido pantoténico (B5), B6, biotina (B8), ácido fólico (B9) y B12), hierro y antioxidante (extracto rico en tocoferoles). Puede contener trazas de FRUTOS DE CÁSCARA

84%

35%

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