Breakfast cereals have been a beloved staple since childhood, through adolescence, and into adulthood. In our youth, we ignored their high sugar levels and ultra-processed ingredients. Today, we still savor a bowl soaked in fresh milk—but with a sharper eye on nutrition. We naturally gravitate toward organic or whole-grain options, though organic doesn't guarantee low sugar or minimal processing.
Consumer watchdog 60 Million Consumers rigorously tested 60 cereals, evaluating sugars, fats, additives, and fibers. Chocolate varieties lead in sweetness and additives—though some brands show progress. Surprisingly, mueslis also rank high in sugar, challenging their healthy image.
Fiber-rich cereals with fruits stand out, offering lower sugar and more beneficial fats, per the experts. Plain cereals have fewer additives and less sugar than chocolate ones but higher salt. “Five products deliver over one-tenth of daily salt needs (5 g/day, WHO guidelines),” the association warns.
Explore the top 3 per category below. Full ranking in 60 Million Consumers issue 573, on newsstands now.
