Is Malt-O-Meal Cereal Healthy (From a Nutritionist)?

Most people associate Malt-O-Meal with the plain hot breakfast cereal made from wheat farina and malted barley, plus added synthetic vitamins and minerals.

Malt-O-Meal also makes processed cereals from refined grain flour, including wheat, corn, and oat flour.

These cereals are marketed as a fast and easy breakfast option and is available in several flavors, including Golden Honey O’s, Apple Zings, Berry Colossal Crunch, Coco Roos, Frosted Flakes, Marshmallow Mateys, and Honey Graham Toasters.

These products are manufactured by Post Consumer Brands, a company known for producing a wide range of cereal products.

Many flavored versions of Malt-O-Meal cereals contain chemical additives like preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial food colorings, including Red 40 and Yellow 5.

See my related review, “Is Cream of Rice Healthy?“

Added sugar is commonly used in foods to enhance flavor, increase shelf life, and improve texture, making products like Malt-O-Meal more appealing to consumers.

Sugar has some nutritional value but only in moderation. Some varieties of Malt-O-Meal cereals contain up to 21 grams of added sugar per serving, which can cause serious health risks, especially for those sensitive to high sugar intake.

Corn syrup, like added sugar, is added to foods as a sweetener to improve texture, moisture retention, and shelf life, making products like Malt-O-Meal taste better.

However, some varieties of Malt-O-Meal contain up to 21 grams of added sugar, including corn syrup, which poses several health problems.

Sodium is added to foods to enhance flavor, preserve freshness, and improve texture. However, some varieties of Malt-O-Meal contain up to 360 mg of sodium per serving.

Although this may seem like a small amount for the average person, even small amounts can add up over time, raising health concerns, particularly for those sensitive to high sodium intake.

Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney issues. Individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular conditions or those aiming to maintain a heart-healthy diet should limit foods high in sodium.

Soy and canola oils are commonly added to foods like Malt-O-Meal cereals to act as emulsifiers and extend shelf life. While these oils are cheap and widely used in processed foods, they often undergo refining processes that strip away nutrients and may produce harmful compounds, including trans fats.

Canola and soy oils are often derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). There are major concerns about the potential health risks associated with GMO consumption.

Canola and soy oils can also cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to these oils, particularly those with soy allergies, as soy oil is derived from the soybean plant.

Artificial food colorings like Yellow 6, Yellow 5, Red 40, and Blue 1 are added to foods like Malt-O-Meal cereals to make them more visually appealing, enhancing their color to look brighter and more attractive. However, these additives come with serious health risks.

Studies have linked artificial dyes to hyperactivity in children, particularly in those with ADHD, and they may also cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in certain individuals.

People who are sensitive to artificial food colorings, particularly children, should avoid products containing these dyes.

For the general population, regularly consuming foods with these artificial ingredients may increase the risk of long-term health complications such as inflammation or even carcinogenic effects in some cases.

Research has raised concerns that these synthetic dyes may be linked to an increased risk of cancer. Studies have shown that Yellow 6 and Red 40, in particular, contain benzidine and other carcinogenic compounds.

These dyes have been flagged for their potential to cause tumors in animal studies, prompting health experts to question their safety for human consumption.  Given the widespread concerns, it’s best to avoid foods like Malt-O-Meal cereals that contain these synthetic dyes, opting instead for more natural, whole-food options.

Natural Flavor

While the term “natural flavor” may give consumers a sense that these flavors come from wholesome sources, it can be misleading. The actual extraction process of these flavors can involve using harsh solvents or unhealthy chemicals.

The term encompasses a broad range of flavor compounds derived naturally and synthetically through processes that may not align with the health-conscious image that the label suggests.

Without clear labeling, company transparency, or regulations on what qualifies as “natural,” consumers may unknowingly consume processed ingredients that undergo extensive refining, raising concerns about the overall nutritional value of the product.

Malt-O-Meal cereal is a convenient, ready-to-eat cereal that requires minimal preparation. It may appeal to busy individuals or families looking for a quick breakfast.

The hot cereal made from just wheat and barley is much less processed than the flavored cereals.

The nutritional cons of consuming Malt-O-Meal cereals are significant and numerous, overshadowing its convenience by far.

The cereals are highly processed products that are not healthy at all, and the potential health risks associated with them make it a poor choice for those seeking a nutritious breakfast option.