Best Granola Cereals

of May 2024

Granola cereals have become a popular addition to breakfast because they’re healthy, filling and delicious. With numerous brands, flavors, and types available in the market, choosing one can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the granola world. Here are some valuable tips that will help you make an informed decision when choosing granola cereals.

1. Check the Nutritional Information

Before buying any granola cereal, read the nutritional information on the label. Since most granola cereals have added sugar, it’s important to see how much sugar per serving is included. Also, pay attention to the amount of protein, fiber, and other nutrients in the cereal. A good granola cereal should have no less than 3-4 grams of fiber, at least 6 grams of protein per serving, and be low in sugar.

2. Consider the Ingredients

Check the ingredients list wary of granola cereals that contain excessive amounts of sugar, oil, and starches. It’s important to choose granola cereals with simple ingredients, like whole grains, nuts, and fruits. Some ingredients to avoid include corn syrup, fructose, and hydrogenated oils. Look for cereals made with natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup, and healthy oils like olive or coconut oil.

3. Don't Fall for Misleading Health Claims

Many granola cereals come with health claims on their packages, such as “low fat”, “gluten-free” and “organic”. However, most of these claims are often misleading and not worth paying attention to. It’s important to read the fine print and examine the nutritional information and ingredients listing to make an informed decision.

4. Go for Homemade Granola

If you’re looking for the healthiest and most affordable granola cereal, you can always make your own. Homemade granola is healthier because you get to control the ingredients and sugar content. To make your homemade granola, simply mix rolled oats with nuts, seeds, fruit, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Then, bake in the oven until crispy.

5. Try Different Flavors

Granola cereals come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate, and fruit. Don’t hesitate to try out different flavors to find the one you like the most. Also, consider buying granola cereals with a variety of nuts, seeds, and fruits to give you a range of nutrients and tastes.

6. Pay Attention to Serving Sizes

When reading the nutritional information, make sure to check the serving size. Some granola cereals might appear healthy because they have low calories per serving, but in reality, the serving size is very small. If you eat more than one serving at a time, you might be consuming many more calories than you think. Be mindful of portion sizes and adjust accordingly.

7. Look for Shelf Life and Storage Information

It’s important to choose granola cereals that have a long shelf life and come with appropriate storage instructions. Some granola cereals might require refrigeration, while others can be stored at room temperature for a few weeks. Choose cereals that will stay fresh until the expiration date and can be stored conveniently according to your kitchen setup.

Conclusion

Choosing the right granola cereal comes down to checking the nutritional information, ingredients, and storage information. Always look for simple and healthy ingredients, avoid misleading health claims, try different flavors, be mindful of portion sizes and be sure to store your granola cereal properly. With these valuable tips, you can make the best decision when choosing granola cereals for your breakfast.