Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a popular breakfast cereal known for its sweet, cinnamon-sugar flavor and satisfying crunch. This article provides a detailed look at the nutritional aspects of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, helping you make informed choices about incorporating it into your diet.
Product Overview
Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal consists of crispy, sweetened squares made from whole wheat and rice, each coated with a blend of real cinnamon and sugar, known as CINNADUST. Marketed as a ready-to-eat breakfast food, it can be enjoyed with milk, offering a sweet and flavorful cereal milk known as CINNAMILK at the bottom of the bowl. It can be eaten as a part of breakfast and meals.
Key Ingredients
The primary ingredients in Cinnamon Toast Crunch are:
- Whole Grain Wheat: Provides fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Sugar: Contributes to the cereal's sweetness.
- Rice Flour: Adds to the cereal's crispy texture.
- Canola and/or Sunflower Oil: Used in the production process.
- Fructose: Another source of sweetness.
- Maltodextrin and Dextrose: These are added sugars.
- Cinnamon: Provides the characteristic cinnamon flavor.
- Soy Lecithin: An emulsifier that helps bind ingredients.
- Caramel Color: For visual appeal.
- Rosemary Extract: Used as a preservative.
The cereal is also fortified with various vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin C, iron, zinc, and several B vitamins.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Cinnamon Toast Crunch (amount per serving as packaged) contains approximately 170 calories. The following table breaks down the key nutritional components per serving:
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| Nutrient | Amount, As Packaged | % Daily Value**, As Packaged |
|---|---|---|
| Total Fat | 4g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | N/A |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | N/A |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2.5g | N/A |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 230mg | 10% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33g | 12% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 11% |
| Total Sugars | 12g | N/A |
| Incl. Added Sugars | 12g | 24% |
| Protein | 2g | N/A |
| Vitamin D | 4mcg | 20% |
| Calcium | 130mg | 10% |
| Iron | 3.6mg | 20% |
| Potassium | 0mg | 0% |
| Vitamin A | N/A | 10% |
| Vitamin C | N/A | 10% |
| Thiamin | N/A | 20% |
| Riboflavin | N/A | 10% |
| Niacin | N/A | 10% |
| Vitamin B6 | N/A | 20% |
| Folate | N/A | 20% |
| Vitamin B12 | N/A | 20% |
| Zinc | N/A | 20% |
Note: *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Analysis of Key Nutrients
- Carbohydrates: Cinnamon Toast Crunch is relatively high in carbohydrates, with 33 grams per serving. A significant portion of these carbohydrates comes from added sugars (12 grams per serving, which is 24% of the daily value). While carbohydrates provide energy, it's important to be mindful of added sugar intake.
- Fiber: With 3 grams of dietary fiber per serving, Cinnamon Toast Crunch contributes to digestive health. Fiber helps promote satiety and regulate blood sugar levels.
- Fat: The cereal contains 4 grams of total fat per serving, with minimal saturated fat (0 grams). The presence of both polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats is beneficial for heart health.
- Protein: Cinnamon Toast Crunch provides 2 grams of protein per serving, which is a relatively small amount.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cinnamon Toast Crunch is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, iron, and various B vitamins. These nutrients play essential roles in maintaining overall health. For instance, it provides 20% of the daily value of Vitamin D, which is important for bone health. Additionally, the cereal contains 10% of the daily value of calcium, contributing to strong bones and teeth. The inclusion of iron (20% DV) supports energy levels and oxygen transport in the body.
Health Benefits and Considerations
- Whole Grain Content: Each serving of Cinnamon Toast Crunch provides 16 grams of whole grain, contributing to the recommended daily intake of at least 48 grams. Whole grains are associated with various health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
- Source of Calcium: Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a good source of calcium, an essential mineral for bone health.
- Added Sugars: The high sugar content in Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a significant consideration. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
- Allergens: Cinnamon Toast Crunch contains wheat and soy ingredients, which may be problematic for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.
Serving Suggestions and Uses
Cinnamon Toast Crunch can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Breakfast Cereal: Serve with milk as a quick and easy breakfast.
- Snack: Enjoy it dry as a convenient snack.
- Topping: Sprinkle over yogurt, ice cream, or desserts for added flavor and crunch.
- In Recipes: Incorporate into homemade cereal bars, trail mixes, or other snack recipes.
Allergen Information
Cinnamon Toast Crunch contains wheat and soy ingredients. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution. The ingredients, nutrition facts, and allergen statements can change.
Consumer Statements
Cinnamon Toast Crunch is marketed as a cereal that the whole family can enjoy and is a perfect addition to homemade cereal bars, party mix, ice cream toppings, and other snacks for kids and adults. It is recommended to keep a box in your pantry for any time you crave the cinnamon-y taste.
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