Let’s talk breakfast! Fortified cereals are not just a quick fix for those hectic mornings, they’re also a great way to pack in some essential nutrients without much fuss.
Lately, everyone’s on the lookout for the best picks in the UK, especially cereals that are loaded with goodies like iron, Vitamin B12, and folic acid.
So, whether you’re health-conscious or just want to add a nutritious punch to your breakfast routine, we’ve got the scoop on the top fortified cereals out there. Let’s dive in and find your new morning favourite!
Why Fortified Cereals?
Fortification is all about bumping up the nutritional value of cereals. In the UK, most fortified cereals come with a good mix of B vitamins and iron – key players for maintaining energy and overall health.
But, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. While some cereals also throw in folic acid, vitamin D, and calcium, others might skip them. This means you’ve got options to match your specific nutritional needs.
Bottom line: fortified cereals are an easy, tasty way to get more of the good stuff your body needs every day. But just keep in mind that some of them are loaded with sugar and are best to be avoided.
Best Fortified Cereals in the UK
When it comes to packing a nutritional punch in your breakfast bowl, not all cereals are created equal. Let’s break down the best options available in the UK.
Best Iron Fortified Cereal: Post Grape Nuts Cereal
When it comes to iron, Post Grape Nuts Cereal is in a league of its own. Boasting an impressive 27.9mg of iron per 100g, it significantly outperforms most UK options, which typically max out at 14mg.
| Cereal Name | Iron (mg per 100g) | % of Recommended Daily Intake |
|---|---|---|
| Post Grape Nuts Cereal | 27.9 | 199% |
| Tesco Cornflakes | 14 | 100% |
| Special K | 14 | 100% |
| Tesco Low Fat Special Flakes | 14 | 100% |
| Tesco Multigrain Hoops | 14 | 100% |
This American import, found in stores like Tesco, is the undisputed iron king in the cereal aisle. But its merits don’t stop at iron. Its health profile is equally impressive, containing only 8.6g of sugar and a solid 12g of protein per 100g.
Additionally, it’s fortified with zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium – nutrients that are not commonly found in other cereals. While its availability may be limited in some UK supermarkets, its nutritional benefits make it worth seeking out for those serious about their iron intake.
For those looking for alternatives that are more widely available, there are several UK cereals that come close with 14mg of iron per 100g. These include Tesco Cornflakes, Special K, and Tesco Low Fat Special Flakes. While they may not reach the iron levels of Post Grape Nuts, they are still excellent choices for boosting your iron intake.
Best Fortified Cereals for Iron and B12
When looking for a cereal that’s both nutritious and energizing, it’s wise to choose one that combines iron and Vitamin B12. Iron is crucial for energy production and healthy blood cells, while Vitamin B12 supports brain health and DNA synthesis. Here are some top UK cereals that deliver on both these essential nutrients:
Tesco Cornflakes: These aren’t your average cornflakes. With 14mg of iron (100% of the recommended daily intake) and a helpful dose of Vitamin B12 (2.5µg or 100% RDA), they’re a nutritional powerhouse. Their sugar content is modest at 6.1g per 100g, making them a good choice for a balanced breakfast.
Tesco Low Fat Special Flakes: Offering 14mg of iron (100% RDA) and a significant 2.50µg of Vitamin B12 per 100g, these flakes are ideal for a health-focused diet. Despite being low in fat, they have a higher sugar content at 12.3g per 100g.
Special K: A popular choice for many, Special K also brings 14mg of iron and 2.5µg of Vitamin B12 per 100g. It’s on the sweeter side, with 17g of sugar per 100g, but its light texture and variety of flavours make it a favoured breakfast option.
Tesco Multigrain Hoops: A great alternative to Cheerios, especially for children, these hoops combine nutritional benefits with fun. They contain 14mg of iron and 2.50µg of Vitamin B12 per 100g, with a sugar content of only 6.0mg per 100g.
Below is a comparison of top UK cereals that excel in both iron and Vitamin B12 content. This table will help you quickly see how they stack up in terms of iron and B12 content, as well as their sugar levels, making your choice for a nutritious start to the day easier.
| Cereal Name | Iron (mg per 100g) | Iron % RDA | Vitamin B12 (µg per 100g) | Vitamin B12 % RDA | Sugar (g per 100g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesco Cornflakes | 14 | 100% | 2.5 | 100% | 6.1 |
| Tesco Low Fat Special Flakes | 14 | 100% | 2.50 | 100% | 12.3 |
| Special K | 14 | 100% | 2.5 | 100% | 17 |
| Tesco Multigrain Hoops | 14 | 100% | 2.50 | 100% | 6.0 |
Best Cereal for Folic Acid in the UK
When it comes to folic acid, a key player in cell growth and DNA formation, not all cereals are equal. While most fortified cereals in the UK provide a decent amount of folic acid, typically between 100-170µg per 100g, we’re focusing on those that really stand out by offering over 200µg per 100g.
This section highlights the top cereals that go above and beyond in their folic acid content, ensuring that you get more of this vital nutrient in every spoonful:
| Cereal Name | Folic Acid (µg per 100g) | % of Recommended Daily Intake |
|---|---|---|
| Kellogg’s All Bran Cereal | 250 | 62.5% |
| Tesco Cornflakes | 400 | 100% |
| Special K | 334 | 83.5% |
| Post Grape Nuts Cereal | 372.41 | 93.1% |
| Weetabix Crunchy Bran Cereal | 250 | 62.5% |
Kellogg’s All Bran Cereal: With 250µg of folic acid per 100g, All Bran is a strong contender. However, it’s worth noting that it comes with a higher sugar content of 18g per 100g. This cereal is a good option for those prioritizing folic acid intake but keep an eye on the sugar.
Tesco Cornflakes: These aren’t just your regular cornflakes. With an impressive 400µg of folic acid per 100g, they stand out as one of the healthiest options for folic acid. Plus, they’re relatively low in sugar, containing only 6.1g per 100g. They are a great choice for a health-conscious diet.
Special K: This popular cereal offers 334µg of folic acid per 100g. Known for its variety and taste, Special K is a balanced choice for those looking to increase their folic acid intake.
Post Grape Nuts Cereal: This cereal not only excels in iron content but also offers 372.41µg of folic acid per 100g, with a moderate sugar content of 8.6g per 100g. It’s a healthy choice, rich in several other vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious start to the day.
Weetabix Crunchy Bran Cereal: Providing 250µg of folic acid per 100g, this cereal is another excellent source of folic acid. It’s a good option for those who enjoy the Weetabix range and are looking to boost their folic acid intake.
Best fortified cereal for children: Ready Brek
When it comes to choosing the right cereal for children, Ready Brek stands out as an excellent choice. Here’s why it’s particularly good for the little ones:
- Low in Sugar: Ready Brek is a healthier option as it contains no added sugar. This makes it ideal for children, helping to reduce their overall sugar intake while still enjoying a tasty breakfast.
- High in Calcium: With an impressive 1340mg of calcium per 100g, Ready Brek is exceptional in providing this crucial mineral. Calcium is vital for children’s growing bones, making this cereal an excellent choice for supporting their development.
- Fortified with Vitamin D and B Vitamins: Alongside calcium, Ready Brek is fortified with Vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and overall bone health. It also contains a range of B vitamins, including B12 and folic acid, supporting energy production and overall well-being.
- Standard Iron Content: Ready Brek provides the standard 12mg of iron per 100g, contributing to the healthy development of children, particularly in supporting healthy blood and cognitive development.
- Kid-Friendly Texture and Taste: Its smooth and creamy texture is often a hit with kids, making it a go-to option for parents looking for a nutritious and child-friendly cereal.
In summary, Ready Brek is more than just a warm and comforting breakfast choice. Its nutritional profile, particularly its high calcium content and absence of added sugar, makes it an outstanding cereal for children’s growth and development.
Best Fortified Cereals for Weight Loss
Choosing the right cereal is crucial for weight loss. Look for options low in sugar but high in fibre and protein. These nutrients help manage hunger and boost energy, making them ideal for a healthy diet.
Let’s explore some fortified cereals that fit this profile and could be excellent choices for those looking to shed some pounds:
Weetabix Protein: Packed with 19g of protein and 9.9g of fibre per 100g, Weetabix Protein is an excellent choice for a filling breakfast. Its low sugar content of just 4.7g per 100g makes it an ideal option for those on a weight loss journey. The high protein and fibre content help in keeping you full for longer, reducing the temptation for mid-morning snacking.
Weetabix Original: This classic cereal offers a balanced nutritional profile with 12g of protein and 10g of fibre per 100g. With its relatively low sugar content, it’s a great option for maintaining energy levels while managing calorie intake effectively.
Weetabix Crunchy Bran Cereal: With 13g of protein and an impressive 22g of fibre per 100g, this cereal is a powerhouse for those seeking a high-fibre diet. Although it contains a moderate amount of sugar (14g per 100g), its high fibre content makes it a good option for sustained fullness and digestive health.
Kellogg’s All Bran Cereal: Another fibre-rich choice, All Bran provides 27g of fibre and 14g of protein per 100g. While it is higher in sugar (18g per 100g) compared to the others, its high fibre and protein content make it a filling option that can aid in weight loss.
These cereals offer a balance of nutrients that support weight loss by promoting fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. Whether you prefer the robust protein of Weetabix Protein or the high fibre content of Kellogg’s All Bran, there’s an option to suit your weight loss goals and taste preferences.
