Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar

Quaker
Seed oil free Lab tested
1 Poor

Swap it for

The Real Cereal Co. Organic Rice Crisps The Real Cereal Co. · 3 pack 95 View on Amazon See all Cereal, ranked

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 7
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Cereal
Summary

Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar scores 1/100. EWG's February 2024 chlormequat study detected the pesticide at ~100 ppb. Chlormequat is a plant growth regulator linked to reduced fertility and developmental toxicity in animal studies; it is not approved for use on food crops grown in the U.S. EWG's 2023 panel also found 445.1 ppb glyphosate in this product — extremely high. The two-pesticide contamination plus maltodextrin and three sweeteners drive the score below 20.

Contaminants 2

Source: EWG

Glyphosate
445.1 ppb
High

Detected at a high level — at or above health-based benchmarks such as EWG's 160 ppb children's-health benchmark. Regular exposure at this level is a genuine health concern. Glyphosate is classified as a probable human carcinogen by IARC, and glyphosate-residue-free supply chains exist — so its presence reflects ingredient sourcing.

EWG 2023 testing detected glyphosate at 445.1 ppb — extremely high.

Chlormequat
~100 ppb
High

Detected at a high level — at or above health-based exposure limits. Regular exposure at this level is a genuine health concern. Chlormequat is a plant growth regulator (PGR) used to shorten cereal stalks pre-harvest. Animal studies link chlormequat exposure to reduced fertility, delayed puberty, and developmental toxicity (Environmental Health Perspectives 2018; Reproductive Toxicology 2020). Chlormequat is not approved for use on food crops grown in the U.S., so its presence in this product indicates pre-harvest spraying on imported (likely Canadian or European) oats. There is no FDA tolerance for chlormequat in oat-based foods sold in the U.S.

EWG's February 2024 study detected chlormequat chloride at ~100 ppb in this product. EWG detected chlormequat in 80% of urine samples from a U.S. population in 2023.

Key ingredients 24

Yellow 5
Very Bad

Yellow 5 is an artificial dye used to color food products. It is synthetically produced and has been linked to hyperactivity in children. It is heavily processed and offers no nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals.

See more about Yellow 5 →
Yellow 6
Very Bad

Yellow 6 is an artificial color used to enhance the appearance of food. It is synthetically produced and has been associated with hyperactivity in children. It is heavily processed and provides no nutritional value.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals.

See more about Yellow 6 →
Brown sugar
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and increased risk of metabolic disorders.

Benefits

Provides a richer flavor compared to white sugar due to molasses content.

See more about Brown sugar →
Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a refined carbohydrate that provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. It is highly processed and contributes to calorie intake without nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption is linked to various health issues.

Risks

High intake can lead to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation.

See more about Sugar →
Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index, which can spike blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods for texture and bulk.

Risks

May cause blood sugar spikes and is not suitable for diabetics.

Benefits

Provides texture and bulk in food products but offers no significant nutritional benefits.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Natural flavor
Bad

Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. It is highly processed and lacks transparency about its specific components. It is used to enhance taste but offers no nutritional benefits.

Risks

Potential allergens or sensitivities due to undisclosed ingredients.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without adding calories.

See more about Natural flavor →
BHT
Bad

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve food. It is highly processed and has been linked to potential health concerns. It is used to extend shelf life but offers no nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions and has been linked to potential carcinogenic effects in high doses.

Benefits

Helps prevent oxidation and rancidity in food products.

See more about BHT →
Malted barley extract
Neutral

Malted barley extract is used for flavoring and as a natural sweetener. It is derived from barley grains and contains some nutrients. It is less processed than artificial sweeteners.

Risks

May contain gluten, which can be problematic for those with celiac disease.

Benefits

Adds flavor and some nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, from barley.

See more about Malted barley extract →
Molasses
Neutral

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

Risks

High consumption can contribute to calorie intake and potential weight gain.

Benefits

Provides minerals like iron and calcium, which are beneficial for health.

See more about Molasses →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative. It is a refined product that provides sodium, an essential mineral. Excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake is linked to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

See more about Salt →
Calcium carbonate
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia and kidney stones.

Benefits

Provides calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

See more about Calcium carbonate →
Sodium bicarbonate
Neutral

Sodium bicarbonate is a leavening agent used in baking. It is a simple compound that helps dough rise. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to alkalosis and electrolyte imbalances.

Benefits

Helps improve texture and volume in baked goods.

See more about Sodium bicarbonate →
Reduced iron
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity and organ damage.

Benefits

Essential for producing hemoglobin and supporting energy levels.

See more about Reduced iron →
Folic acid
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.

Benefits

Supports cell division and is crucial during pregnancy.

See more about Folic acid →
Vitamin A palmitate
Neutral

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

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to toxicity and liver damage.

Benefits

Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.

See more about Vitamin A palmitate →
Whole grain oat flour
Good

Whole grain oat flour is a source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining most of its natural nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.

Benefits

Rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

See more about Whole grain oat flour →
Whole wheat flour
Good

Whole wheat flour is a whole grain ingredient that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It is less processed than refined flour, retaining more nutrients. It supports heart health and digestion.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

See more about Whole wheat flour →
Sodium ascorbate
Good

Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C used as an antioxidant. It helps preserve food and provides vitamin C, which is essential for immune function. It is less acidic than ascorbic acid, making it easier on the stomach.

Benefits

Provides vitamin C, which supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant.

See more about Sodium ascorbate →
Alpha tocopheryl acetate
Good

Alpha tocopheryl acetate is a form of vitamin E used as an antioxidant. It helps preserve food and provides vitamin E, which is important for skin health and immune function. It is a stable form of vitamin E used in supplements and fortified foods.

Benefits

Provides vitamin E, which supports skin health and acts as an antioxidant.

See more about Alpha tocopheryl acetate →
Niacinamide
Good

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used to fortify foods. It is essential for energy metabolism and skin health. It is commonly used in fortified cereals and supplements.

Benefits

Supports energy production and skin health.

See more about Niacinamide →
Zinc oxide
Good

Zinc oxide is used to fortify foods with zinc, an essential mineral. It supports immune function and wound healing. It is a common fortification in cereals and supplements.

Risks

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

Benefits

Essential for immune function and enzyme activity.

See more about Zinc oxide →
Thiamin mononitrate
Good

Thiamin mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 used to fortify foods. It is essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. It is commonly used in fortified cereals and supplements.

Benefits

Supports energy production and nerve function.

See more about Thiamin mononitrate →
Pyridoxine hydrochloride
Good

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a form of vitamin B6 used to fortify foods. It is essential for protein metabolism and cognitive development. It is commonly used in fortified cereals and supplements.

Benefits

Supports protein metabolism and cognitive health.

See more about Pyridoxine hydrochloride →
Riboflavin
Good

Riboflavin is a form of vitamin B2 used to fortify foods. It is essential for energy production and cellular function. It is commonly used in fortified cereals and supplements.

Benefits

Supports energy production and cellular health.

See more about Riboflavin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-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.

Are you Quaker? Fix an error Get the badge Get tested

Amazon pricing & content

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar

Common questions

Is Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar healthy?

Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar scores 1/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the lower scores in Scout's catalog. EWG's February 2024 chlormequat study detected the pesticide at ~100 ppb.

Does Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar contain seed oils?

No — Scout's ingredient analysis marks Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar as seed-oil free.

Has Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar been lab-tested?

Yes. Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar carries an independent laboratory panel from EWG covering 2 contaminants (including Glyphosate, Chlormequat) — the full results are on this page.

How processed is Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar?

Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar compare to other cereals?

Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar ranks #33 of 35 cereals in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is The Real Cereal Co. Organic Rice Crisps at 95/100.

Which ingredients drive Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Whole grain oat flour, Whole wheat flour, Sodium ascorbate count in its favor; Brown sugar, Sugar, Maltodextrin are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

More from Quaker

See more