Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL

Common questions

Is Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL healthy?

Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL scores 78/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cereal is primarily made from whole grain wheat flour and malted barley flour, both of which are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients and fiber.

How processed is Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL?

Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Whole grain wheat flour, Malted barley flour, Dried yeast 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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Post THE ORIGINAL CEREAL

Post
78 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

$21.16 · 20.5 oz · pack of 4 · $0.26 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Post Foods, LLC
Category Cereals and Potatoes
Summary

This cereal is primarily made from whole grain wheat flour and malted barley flour, both of which are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients and fiber. The inclusion of vitamins and minerals enhances its nutritional profile. However, as a processed food, it is subject to a score cap, and the presence of added salt and the processing level prevent it from achieving a higher rating.

Key ingredients 10

Whole grain wheat flour
Good

Whole grain wheat flour is a good source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining the bran and germ which provide vitamins and minerals. Compared to refined flour, it offers more health benefits due to its higher nutrient content.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with wheat or gluten sensitivities.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Contains essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron.

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Malted barley flour
Good

Malted barley flour is rich in enzymes that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. It is often used to enhance flavor and nutritional content in baked goods. The malting process increases the availability of certain nutrients.

Risks

May not be suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and provides enzymes that support digestion. Contains vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.

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Dried yeast
Good

Dried yeast is a source of B vitamins and protein. It is used in baking to help dough rise and improve texture. The fermentation process can enhance the nutritional profile of baked goods.

Benefits

Provides B vitamins and protein, supporting energy metabolism and cellular function.

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Niacinamide
Good

Vitamin B3 — evidence-backed skin and metabolic benefits.

Benefits

Supports energy production and skin health, and helps prevent niacin deficiency.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. While necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits

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

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Reduced iron
Neutral

Reduced iron is added to fortify foods with essential minerals. It helps prevent iron deficiency anemia. The bioavailability of iron can vary depending on dietary factors.

Risks

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

Benefits

Essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production.

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Zinc oxide
Neutral

Zinc oxide is used to fortify foods with zinc, an essential mineral. It supports immune function and wound healing. The bioavailability of zinc from zinc oxide can be lower compared to other forms.

Risks

Excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and lead to toxicity.

Benefits

Supports immune function and is essential for enzyme activity and protein synthesis.

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Vitamin B6
Neutral

Vitamin B6 is added to support energy metabolism and cognitive function. It is essential for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Fortification helps prevent deficiencies in populations with limited dietary intake.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism, cognitive function, and neurotransmitter synthesis.

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Thiamin mononitrate
Neutral

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

Benefits

Supports carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function, preventing thiamin deficiency.

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Folic acid
Neutral

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate used to fortify foods. It is crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division. Fortification helps prevent neural tube defects in developing fetuses.

Risks

Excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.

Benefits

Supports DNA synthesis and cell division, and is important for fetal development.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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