Krave is trying to come across as something that is good for you. It’s packed with B vitamins and iron and doesn’t have any artificial colours or flavours. But can this chocolatey breakfast really be good for your health? In this post, we’re going to take a close look at what’s in Krave cereal and what it means for you. Let’s find out if this cereal should be part of your breakfast!
Ingredients Analysis
When it comes to understanding what we eat, a closer look at the ingredients can be quite revealing. Kellogg’s Krave Milk Chocolate Cereal, the focus of our analysis, lists the following ingredients:
- Cereal Flours (55%): This includes wheat, oat, and rice flours. These are common cereal grains that provide the base for the product. They are a source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy.
- Milk Chocolate Flavoured Filling: A significant part of the cereal’s appeal, this filling contains sugar, a blend of vegetable oils (palm, sunflower, rapeseed), and milk chocolate. It also includes glucose syrup, fat reduced cocoa powder, and various forms of milk powder. The presence of palm oil, a saturated fat, is noteworthy, as is the high sugar content.
- Sugar: Listed separately, indicating it’s an added ingredient, sugar contributes to the overall sweetness of the cereal. High sugar content is often a concern in breakfast cereals.
- Salt: Used for flavouring, salt content is another factor to consider, especially for those monitoring their sodium intake.
- Colours (Annatto Norbixin, Carotenes): These are natural colouring agents. Annatto Norbixin is derived from the annatto tree, and carotenes are organic pigments found in plants.
- Antioxidants (Ascorbyl Palmitate, Alpha Tocopherol): These are added to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C, and alpha tocopherol is a form of vitamin E.
Vitamins & Minerals
The cereal is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, which are added to enhance its nutritional profile:
- Iron: Iron is a crucial mineral that aids in the production of red blood cells and the transportation of oxygen throughout the body. Adequate iron intake is essential for energy, cognitive function, and overall health.
- B Vitamins (Niacin, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin, Thiamin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12): The B vitamins play a key role in maintaining good health. They help in converting our food into fuel, keeping us energized throughout the day. These vitamins also support brain function, nerve health, and the production of red blood cells. Each B vitamin has its unique functions.
Nutritional Profile
Understanding the nutritional content of Krave cereal is key to evaluating its healthiness. Let’s break down the nutritional profile:
Calories in Krave Cereal: With and Without Milk
Krave cereal offers a moderate calorie count that’s important to consider, especially if you’re watching your daily intake. A standard 30g serving of Krave cereal provides approximately 134 calories.
However, when you add milk, the calorie count changes. Assuming you’re adding about a half-cup (approximately 120ml) of semi-skimmed milk, this adds roughly 61 calories, bringing the total to about 195 calories per serving.
It’s worth noting that using different types of milk can further alter the calorie content.
Carbohydrates and Sugar Content
Carbohydrates are a primary component in Krave cereal, mainly coming from the cereal flours and added sugars. Each 30g serving contains about 21g of carbohydrates, which is a considerable amount for a breakfast option.
When it comes to sugar, Krave cereal has a notable amount. With 25g of sugar per 100g, a 30g serving contains about 7.5g of sugar. This is roughly equivalent to nearly two teaspoons of sugar.
Considering the daily recommended sugar intake should not exceed 30g for adults, a single serving of Krave cereal uses up about a quarter of this limit.
It’s crucial for those mindful of their sugar consumption to factor this in, especially if other sugary foods are consumed throughout the day.
Fats, Fibre, and Protein in Krave Cereal
Krave cereal contains a mix of fats, fibre, and protein, each playing a role in its overall nutritional profile. The fat content stands at 15g per 100g, which includes 4.7g of saturated fats per 100g. This equates to about 4.5g of fat and 1.4g of saturated fat in a 30g serving, making up a small but notable part of the daily fat intake.
In terms of fibre, Krave cereal provides 3.7g per 100g. While it’s not a high-fibre option, it contributes to the recommended daily fibre intake. Fibre is essential for digestive health and maintaining a feeling of fullness.
Protein in Krave cereal is relatively modest, with 7.5g per 100g. A 30g serving provides around 2.3g of protein, which contributes to muscle maintenance and growth.
Vitamins and Minerals Content
A standard 30g serving of Krave cereal provides a good portion of your daily vitamin and mineral needs. For instance, each serving offers about 25% of the daily recommended intake of B vitamins like Thiamin, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12. These B vitamins are essential for converting food into energy, supporting brain function, and maintaining healthy blood cells.
Additionally, iron is a key mineral present in Krave cereal. In each 30g serving, you get around 25% of your recommended daily iron intake. Iron is crucial for making red blood cells and for transporting oxygen throughout the body, playing a vital role in energy levels and cognitive function.
In the context of a typical diet, these amounts are significant. Getting a quarter of your daily requirement of B vitamins and iron from a single serving of cereal is beneficial, especially for those who might not get enough of these nutrients from other dietary sources. However, it’s important to balance this with other foods throughout the day to ensure a varied and balanced diet.
Is Krave Cereal Healthy?
When we cut through the marketing and look at the facts, the answer to whether Krave cereal is a healthy choice becomes quite clear. Despite its added vitamins and minerals, and claims of having no artificial flavours or colours, Krave cereal falls short in terms of being a healthy breakfast option.
The biggest concern with Krave cereal is its high sugar content. Each serving contains nearly two teaspoons of sugar, which significantly contributes to the daily sugar limit. Regular consumption of high-sugar foods can lead to various health issues, including weight gain and heart problems.
Additionally, Krave cereal is low in fibre and only provides small amounts of protein. Fibre is essential for digestive health and keeping you full, while protein is important for muscle health and overall energy. The lack of these two key nutrients makes it less than ideal for a wholesome start to the day.
Moreover, the nutrition label itself indicates areas of concern with colour-coded warnings. The sugar content is highlighted in red, while other nutritional values like fat, saturated fat, and salt are marked in orange. These warnings are a clear indication that Krave cereal should be consumed with caution.
In conclusion, despite its added nutrients, Krave cereal is not a very healthy choice. Its high sugar content and low levels of fibre and protein outweigh the benefits of the added vitamins and minerals. For those seeking a nutritious breakfast, there are healthier alternatives that offer more balanced nutritional values.
FAQs about Krave Cereal
Is Krave Cereal Good for Weight Loss?
Krave cereal might not be the best option for weight loss. Its high sugar content and moderate calorie count can be counterproductive for those trying to lose weight. For weight loss, cereals with higher fibre and protein and lower sugar are typically recommended, as they help keep you fuller for longer and avoid sugar spikes.
Is Krave Cereal Fattening?
Like any food, Krave cereal can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities, particularly due to its sugar and fat content. It’s important to consume it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake.
Can You Eat Krave Cereal When Pregnant?
Pregnant women can eat Krave cereal, but it should be a part of a balanced diet. The added vitamins and minerals can be beneficial, but the high sugar and low fibre content are less ideal. Pregnant women are often advised to consume nutrient-rich foods, and while Krave cereal offers some nutrients, there are healthier cereal options available.
Why does Krave Give Me Diarrhea?
If you find that Krave cereal is causing digestive issues like diarrhea, it could be due to its ingredients. Some individuals may be sensitive to certain components like gluten or the added sugar and fats. If Krave cereal consistently causes discomfort, it’s advisable to stop consuming it and consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
