Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar
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The Real Cereal Co. Organic Rice Crisps The Real Cereal Co. · 3 pack View on Amazon See all Cereal, ranked At a glance
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 5Very 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.
Yellow 6Very 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.
Brown sugarBad
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.
SugarBad
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.
MaltodextrinBad
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.
Natural flavorBad
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.
BHTBad
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.
Malted barley extractNeutral
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.
MolassesNeutral
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.
SaltNeutral
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.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
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.
Sodium bicarbonateNeutral
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.
Reduced ironNeutral
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.
Folic acidNeutral
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.
Vitamin A palmitateNeutral
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.
Whole grain oat flourGood
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.
Whole wheat flourGood
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.
Sodium ascorbateGood
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.
Alpha tocopheryl acetateGood
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.
NiacinamideGood
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.
Zinc oxideGood
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.
Thiamin mononitrateGood
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.
Pyridoxine hydrochlorideGood
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.
RiboflavinGood
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.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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