Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches

Common questions

Is Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches healthy?

Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. Quaker Instant Grits Original is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, containing beneficial fortifying ingredients like calcium carbonate and various B vitamins.

How processed is Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches?

Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Niacin, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin count in its favor; BHT is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Quaker Instant Grits Original (12 - 1 Ounce) 12 Ounces 12 Count Paper Pouches

Quaker
Bioengineered
65 Fair

Analysis updated May 2026 · How Scout scores

$34.99 · 12 count · 12 oz · pack of 6 · $5.83 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Oats and Cereal
Summary

Quaker Instant Grits Original is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, containing beneficial fortifying ingredients like calcium carbonate and various B vitamins. However, it includes BHT, a controversial preservative, and has a relatively high sodium content. The presence of additives and the processed nature of the product limit its score, despite the nutritional fortification.

Key ingredients 10

Niacin
Good

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is important for energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin and nerves. It is often added to foods to prevent deficiencies. It is water-soluble and generally safe in fortified foods.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and helps maintain healthy skin and nerves.

See more about Niacin →
Thiamin Mononitrate
Good

Thiamin mononitrate is a synthetic form of vitamin B1 used to fortify foods. It is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. Fortification helps prevent thiamin deficiency in populations.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and nerve function.

See more about Thiamin Mononitrate →
Riboflavin
Good

Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is important for energy production and cellular function. It is often added to foods to ensure adequate intake. It is water-soluble and generally safe in fortified foods.

Benefits

Supports energy production and cellular function.

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Degerminated White Corn Grits
Neutral

Degerminated white corn grits are a processed form of corn where the germ and bran are removed. This process reduces fiber and nutrient content compared to whole corn. It provides a source of carbohydrates but lacks significant nutritional benefits.

Risks

The removal of the germ and bran reduces fiber and essential nutrients.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of carbohydrates for energy.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor in foods. It is a common ingredient but should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues. Excessive intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular problems.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

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Calcium Carbonate
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium which is essential for bone health and various metabolic functions.

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Reduced Iron
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, but this is rare from food sources.

Benefits

Essential for the production of hemoglobin and prevention of anemia.

See more about Reduced Iron →
Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer found in citrus fruits. It is widely used in the food industry for its acidic properties. Generally recognized as safe, it poses minimal health risks.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.

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Folic Acid
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Essential for DNA synthesis and preventing neural tube defects.

See more about Folic Acid →
BHT
Bad

BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve freshness in foods. There are concerns about its potential carcinogenic effects and impact on liver health. It is a controversial additive with limited long-term safety data.

Risks

Potential carcinogenic effects and liver health concerns have been raised in some studies.

Benefits

Helps preserve food by preventing oxidation and extending shelf life.

See more about BHT →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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