CEREAL, ORIGINAL

Common questions

Is CEREAL, ORIGINAL healthy?

CEREAL, ORIGINAL scores 88/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This cereal is composed of minimally processed ingredients, primarily wheat farina and malted barley, which provide essential nutrients and fiber.

How processed is CEREAL, ORIGINAL?

CEREAL, ORIGINAL is NOVA Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive CEREAL, ORIGINAL's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Wheat farina, Ferric orthophosphate, Niacinamide count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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CEREAL, ORIGINAL

Malt O Meal
88 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 6
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by MOM Brands Company
Category Oats and Cereal
Summary

This cereal is composed of minimally processed ingredients, primarily wheat farina and malted barley, which provide essential nutrients and fiber. The inclusion of vitamins and minerals like calcium carbonate and ferric orthophosphate enhances its nutritional profile. The product's clean label and lack of harmful additives contribute to its high rating.

Key ingredients 9

Wheat farina
Good

Wheat farina is a minimally processed grain product that provides essential carbohydrates and some protein. It is a good source of energy and contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. Compared to refined grains, it retains more nutrients and fiber.

Risks

Contains gluten, which may cause issues for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Benefits

Provides a good source of energy and dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and sustained energy levels.

Ferric orthophosphate
Good

Ferric orthophosphate is used as an iron supplement to prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is a stable form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport and energy production.

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms like nausea and abdominal pain.

Benefits

Prevents iron deficiency anemia and supports healthy oxygen transport and energy production.

See more about Ferric orthophosphate →
Niacinamide
Good

Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It is a water-soluble vitamin that supports skin health and reduces inflammation. As a supplement, it helps prevent niacin deficiency.

Risks

High doses may cause liver damage and gastrointestinal issues.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and skin health, and reduces inflammation.

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Pyridoxine hydrochloride
Good

Pyridoxine hydrochloride, or vitamin B6, is vital for protein metabolism and cognitive development. It is involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and immune function. As a supplement, it helps prevent vitamin B6 deficiency.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to nerve damage and sensory neuropathy.

Benefits

Supports protein metabolism, cognitive development, and immune function.

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Thiamin mononitrate
Good

Thiamin mononitrate, or vitamin B1, is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. It is a water-soluble vitamin that supports energy production and prevents beriberi. As a supplement, it helps prevent thiamin deficiency.

Benefits

Supports carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function, and prevents beriberi.

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Riboflavin
Good

Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is essential for energy production and cellular function. It is a water-soluble vitamin that supports skin health and antioxidant protection. As a supplement, it helps prevent riboflavin deficiency.

Benefits

Supports energy production and cellular function, and provides antioxidant protection.

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Malted barley
Neutral

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

Risks

Contains gluten, which may be problematic for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Rich in enzymes that aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption, contributing to overall gut health.

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Calcium carbonate
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia, which can cause kidney stones and impaired absorption of other minerals.

Benefits

Supports bone health and is essential for muscle function and nerve transmission.

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Folic acid
Neutral

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

Risks

High doses may mask vitamin B12 deficiency and lead to neurological damage.

Benefits

Essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, and prevents neural tube defects during pregnancy.

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Processing

Group 1 · Minimally processed

Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

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