Bran Flakes

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Bran Flakes healthy?

Bran Flakes scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cereal contains beneficial ingredients like whole grain wheat and wheat bran, which provide fiber and essential nutrients.

How processed is Bran Flakes?

Bran Flakes is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Bran Flakes' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Whole Grain Wheat, Wheat Bran, Barley Malt Extract count in its favor; Sugar is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Bran Flakes

Publix
65 Fair

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 10
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Publix
Category Oats and Cereal
Summary

This cereal contains beneficial ingredients like whole grain wheat and wheat bran, which provide fiber and essential nutrients. However, the presence of added sugar and the processed nature of the product limit its health benefits. The cereal is fortified with vitamins and minerals, which is positive, but the processing level and added sugar prevent it from being rated higher.

Key ingredients 15

Whole Grain Wheat
Very Good

Whole grain wheat is a minimally processed ingredient rich in fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides sustained energy. The presence of bran and germ enhances its nutritional profile.

Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting digestive health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

See more about Whole Grain Wheat →
Wheat Bran
Good

Wheat bran is a high-fiber component of wheat that aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity. It is a byproduct of milling but retains significant nutritional value. Its inclusion enhances the fiber content of the product.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides a high amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and may help in weight management.

See more about Wheat Bran →
Barley Malt Extract
Good

Barley malt extract is a natural sweetener derived from barley grains. It provides a rich flavor and some nutritional benefits compared to refined sugars. It contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to barley or gluten.

Benefits

Offers a natural source of sweetness with some vitamins and minerals, enhancing flavor without excessive processing.

See more about Barley Malt Extract →
Zinc Oxide
Good

Zinc oxide is used to fortify foods with zinc, an essential mineral for immune function and wound healing. It is a stable form of zinc that enhances nutritional value. Fortification helps prevent zinc deficiency.

Risks

High doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption and cause gastrointestinal issues.

Benefits

Supports immune function, skin health, and enzymatic reactions in the body.

See more about Zinc Oxide →
Niacinamide
Good

Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is added to foods to support energy metabolism and skin health. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is easily absorbed. Fortification ensures adequate intake of this essential nutrient.

Benefits

Supports energy production and skin health, and may help reduce cholesterol levels.

See more about Niacinamide →
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Good

Pyridoxine hydrochloride, or vitamin B6, is added to support amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is crucial for brain health. Fortification helps prevent deficiency.

Benefits

Supports brain health and aids in the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates.

See more about Pyridoxine Hydrochloride →
Riboflavin
Good

Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is added to support energy production and antioxidant function. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for cellular function. Fortification helps ensure adequate intake.

Benefits

Supports energy production and acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage.

See more about Riboflavin →
Thiamin Mononitrate
Good

Thiamin mononitrate, or vitamin B1, is added to support carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is crucial for energy production. Fortification helps prevent deficiency.

Benefits

Essential for energy metabolism and proper nerve function.

See more about Thiamin Mononitrate →
Vitamin D3
Good

Vitamin D3 is added to support bone health and immune function. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that enhances calcium absorption. Fortification helps prevent deficiency, especially in populations with limited sun exposure.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia and associated health issues.

Benefits

Supports bone health and immune function by enhancing calcium absorption.

See more about Vitamin D3 →
Vitamin B12
Good

Vitamin B12 is added to support nerve function and red blood cell formation. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is crucial for DNA synthesis. Fortification helps prevent deficiency, especially in vegetarians and the elderly.

Benefits

Essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells.

See more about Vitamin B12 →
Molasses
Neutral

Molasses is a byproduct of sugar refining that contains some vitamins and minerals. It is used to add flavor and color to foods. While less processed than refined sugar, it still contributes to sugar intake.

Risks

Excessive consumption can contribute to high sugar intake and related health issues.

Benefits

Contains small amounts of minerals like iron and calcium, offering slight nutritional benefits over refined sugar.

See more about Molasses →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is a common seasoning used to enhance flavor in foods. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and proper muscle function.

See more about Salt →
Reduced Iron
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, particularly in individuals with hemochromatosis.

Benefits

Essential for the production of hemoglobin and prevention of anemia.

See more about Reduced Iron →
Folic Acid
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.

Benefits

Essential for DNA synthesis and prevention of neural tube defects during pregnancy.

See more about Folic Acid →
Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is a processed ingredient that provides empty calories without essential nutrients. It can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues when consumed in excess. Its presence in cereals is often for taste enhancement.

Risks

High intake of sugar is associated with increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Oats and Cereal