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Special K
Flavor:
Original
Ingredients:
Rice, wheat gluten, sugar, defatted wheat germ, contains 2% or less of salt, malt flavor, BHT for freshness. Vitamins and Minerals: Reduced iron, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), niacinamide, vitamin E acetate, beta-carotene, folic acid, vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), vitamin B1 (thiamin hydrochloride), vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), vitamin D3, vitamin B12.
Rating: Not Clean
- 2 out of 5
Ingredient Score:
Special K Original earns a rating of 2 out of 5 green leaves on our scale for cleaner food options. This cereal, while popular, falls short in the category of health-conscious foods due to several factors that affect its overall score.
The product is not organic, a significant consideration for many seeking cleaner eating options. Non-organic foods often contain traces of pesticides and may not meet the stringent standards set for organic certification. Additionally, the ingredients list reveals the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which some consumers choose to avoid due to environmental and health concerns.
Added sugars are present in Special K Original, contributing to the decrease in its health rating. Excessive sugar consumption is linked to a multitude of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Consumers looking for healthier breakfast options may prefer products without added sugars.
The inclusion of potentially harmful additives is another reason for the low score. Malt flavoring and pyridoxine hydrochloride, a form of vitamin B6, are among the ingredients that raise concerns. While these additives are common in processed foods, their necessity and impact on health are debatable.
Most notably, Special K Original contains butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve freshness. BHT is a known harmful additive that has been flagged for its potential health risks. Its presence in any food product is a red flag for those aiming to maintain a clean diet.
Special K Original does, however, include a range of added vitamins and minerals. These nutrients, such as reduced iron and vitamins C, E, and B12, are beneficial for overall health. Despite this, the negative aspects of the ingredients list overshadow the positives, resulting in its low green leaf rating.
For those seeking cleaner and healthier food options, Special K Original may not be the best choice. The product’s reliance on non-organic, GMO, and additive-laden ingredients detracts from its health potential. Consumers are encouraged to consider these factors when making informed decisions about their food purchases.
Certifications:
None
Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.
Categories:
None
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