Waitrose Special Flakes

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Common questions

Is Waitrose Special Flakes healthy?

Waitrose Special Flakes scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cereal contains beneficial whole grains like rice and wholegrain wheat, which provide fiber and essential nutrients.

How processed is Waitrose Special Flakes?

Waitrose Special Flakes is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Waitrose Special Flakes' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Rice, Wholegrain Wheat, Niacin 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.

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Waitrose Special Flakes

Waitrose
70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$23.72 · 750 g · pack of 4 · $5.93 / count
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 5
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by John Lewis Partnership PLC
Category Oats and Cereal
Summary

This cereal contains beneficial whole grains like rice and wholegrain wheat, which provide fiber and essential nutrients. However, the presence of refined sugar, which contributes empty calories and potential health risks, lowers its health profile. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of some vitamins and minerals.

Key ingredients 15

Rice
Good

Rice is a staple grain providing carbohydrates for energy. It is minimally processed and generally well-tolerated by most individuals. As a whole grain, it can contribute to a balanced diet.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates and energy, and is generally easy to digest.

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Wholegrain Wheat
Good

Wholegrain wheat is a source of fiber and essential nutrients. It is less processed than refined grains, retaining more of its natural nutrients. Consuming whole grains is associated with various health benefits, including improved digestion.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Niacin
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

Excessive intake from supplements can cause flushing and liver damage.

Benefits

Supports energy production and helps maintain healthy skin and nerves.

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Riboflavin
Good

Essential B vitamin — beneficial micronutrient.

Benefits

Supports energy production and helps maintain healthy skin and eyes.

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Vitamin B12
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Supports nerve health and aids in the production of red blood cells.

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Barley Malt Extract
Neutral

Barley malt extract is used as a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer. It is less processed than refined sugars but still contributes to the overall sugar content. It provides some vitamins and minerals but in small amounts.

Risks

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

Benefits

Offers a natural source of sweetness and can enhance flavor without artificial additives.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a necessary nutrient but should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

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

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

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Vitamin E
Neutral

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It is commonly added to foods to enhance nutritional value. While beneficial, it is usually obtained in sufficient amounts from a varied diet.

Risks

High doses from supplements can interfere with blood clotting and increase bleeding risk.

Benefits

Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting immune function.

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Pantothenic Acid
Neutral

Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, crucial for fatty acid metabolism. It is added to foods to ensure adequate intake. Generally, deficiencies are rare due to its wide availability in foods.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and the synthesis of hormones and cholesterol.

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Iron
Neutral

Iron is a vital mineral for oxygen transport in the blood. It is often added to cereals to prevent anemia. While beneficial, excessive iron intake can be harmful, particularly in individuals with hemochromatosis.

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity and organ damage.

Benefits

Essential for the production of hemoglobin and myoglobin, supporting oxygen transport and muscle function.

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Thiamin
Neutral

Thiamin, or vitamin B1, is crucial for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. It is commonly added to fortified foods to prevent deficiencies. Generally, it is well-tolerated and necessary for energy production.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and proper nerve function.

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Vitamin B6
Neutral

Vitamin B6 is involved in amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is added to fortified foods to prevent deficiencies. While beneficial, it is typically consumed in adequate amounts through a balanced diet.

Risks

Excessive intake from supplements can cause nerve damage.

Benefits

Supports brain health and aids in the production of neurotransmitters.

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Folic Acid
Neutral

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, important for DNA synthesis and cell division. It is added to foods to prevent neural tube defects in pregnancy. While beneficial, excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.

Risks

High intake can mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially leading to neurological damage.

Benefits

Essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, particularly important during pregnancy.

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Vitamin D
Neutral

Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. It is often added to foods to prevent deficiencies, especially in regions with limited sunlight. While beneficial, excessive intake can lead to toxicity.

Risks

Excessive intake can cause hypercalcemia and associated health issues.

Benefits

Supports bone health and immune function by aiding calcium absorption.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is associated with increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders. It provides empty calories with no essential nutrients. Excessive consumption can lead to various health issues, including dental problems and insulin resistance.

Risks

High intake of sugar can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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