Corn Pops, a popular breakfast cereal, has been a staple in many households for decades. This sweet, crunchy treat appeals to both children and adults alike with its unique corn-based flavor. While it may be tasty, many consumers are curious about its nutritional value.

A single serving of Kellogg’s Corn Pops (1 1/3 cups or 40 grams) contains 150 calories, with 95% of those calories coming from carbohydrates. The cereal is low in fat and provides a small amount of protein. It also contains added vitamins and minerals, including iron, niacin, vitamin B6, and folic acid.

Despite its fortification with nutrients, Corn Pops is relatively high in sugar. The cereal’s main ingredients include milled corn, sugar, and corn syrup. Those watching their sugar intake may want to consider portion sizes or alternative breakfast options. Understanding the nutritional content of Corn Pops can help consumers make informed decisions about incorporating this cereal into their diet.

Nutritional Profile

Corn Pops cereal offers a mix of nutrients, though it is primarily a carbohydrate-rich food. The cereal contains fortified vitamins and minerals, but also has a high sugar content.

Basic Nutrition Facts

A standard serving size of Corn Pops is typically 1 cup (29g). This serving provides approximately 110 calories. The cereal is low in fat, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Sodium content is moderate, around 105 mg per serving. This represents about 4% of the daily recommended value.

Corn Pops contains no cholesterol. The cereal is also free from trans fats.

Macronutrients

Carbohydrates are the primary macronutrient in Corn Pops. A serving contains about 26 grams of total carbohydrates.

Of these carbohydrates, a significant portion is sugar. Each serving has approximately 12 grams of sugar, which includes added sugars.

The cereal is low in dietary fiber, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Protein content is minimal, typically around 1 gram per serving.

Micronutrients

Corn Pops is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals. A serving provides 10% of the daily value for vitamin D and 25% for several B vitamins.

These B vitamins include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and folate. The cereal also contains vitamin B12.

Iron is present at 25% of the daily value per serving. Other minerals include zinc and small amounts of calcium and potassium.

Corn Pops does not naturally contain significant amounts of vitamins A, C, or E. The cereal’s vitamin and mineral content largely comes from fortification during processing.

Serving Size and Recommendations

Corn Pops cereal comes in various package sizes, each with specific serving size information and nutritional recommendations. Understanding these details helps consumers make informed choices about their cereal consumption.

Understanding Serving Size

A typical serving size of Corn Pops is 1 1/3 cups or 40 grams. This amount provides approximately 150 calories. Smaller packages, like single-serve containers, may have different serving sizes.

For example, a 1.5 oz (42g) container is considered one serving. A 0.75 oz (21g) container represents a smaller single serving.

It’s important to note that actual consumption may vary from the recommended serving size. Many people tend to pour more cereal than the suggested amount.

Recommended Daily Intake

The recommended daily intake of Corn Pops depends on individual dietary needs and goals. As part of a balanced diet, cereal can contribute to daily nutritional requirements.

A serving of Corn Pops provides about 7.5% of the daily value for calories, based on a 2,000-calorie diet. It’s low in fat but relatively high in sugar.

Nutritionists often advise limiting added sugars in the diet. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25-36 grams of added sugar per day for adults.

Consumers should consider their overall daily intake of nutrients when incorporating Corn Pops into their diet. Balancing cereal consumption with other food groups is key to maintaining a healthy eating pattern.

Ingredients and Allergens

Corn Pops cereal contains a mix of ingredients, with some potential allergens to be aware of. Understanding the components and possible allergens is crucial for consumers with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Main Ingredients

Milled corn forms the primary base of Corn Pops. Sugar and corn syrup are added for sweetness. The cereal also includes small amounts of molasses, salt, and vegetable oils.

Specific vegetable oils used may include hydrogenated coconut, soybean, and cottonseed oils. Annatto provides the cereal’s characteristic color. BHT is included as a preservative to maintain freshness.

Corn Pops are fortified with several vitamins and minerals. These include vitamin C, niacinamide, reduced iron, zinc oxide, and various B vitamins (B6, B2, and B1).

Potential Allergens

Wheat starch is present in Corn Pops, making the cereal unsuitable for those with wheat allergies or celiac disease. Soy, another common allergen, may be present due to the use of soybean oil.

The cereal does not contain milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, crustacean shellfish, or sesame as ingredients. However, manufacturing processes may introduce cross-contamination risks.

Individuals with allergies should always check the product packaging for the most up-to-date allergen information. Kellogg’s typically lists major allergens and potential cross-contamination risks on their labels.

Health Considerations

Corn Pops cereal raises several important nutritional factors to consider. While it provides some essential nutrients, there are also potential drawbacks to be aware of when incorporating this cereal into your diet.

Fat Content

Corn Pops are virtually fat-free, containing less than 0.5 grams of fat per serving. This low fat content can be beneficial for those watching their fat intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight.

The cereal contains negligible amounts of saturated and trans fats, which are often associated with negative health impacts when consumed in excess. For individuals concerned about heart health, the minimal fat content in Corn Pops may be seen as a positive attribute.

However, it’s important to note that some dietary fat is necessary for proper nutrient absorption and overall health. Consumers may need to obtain healthy fats from other sources in their diet.

Sugar and Dietary Fiber

Corn Pops are high in sugar, with around 12 grams per serving. This elevated sugar content can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, potentially causing energy crashes later.

The cereal is low in dietary fiber, providing only about 1 gram per serving. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, blood sugar regulation, and feelings of fullness.

The combination of high sugar and low fiber may not promote satiety, potentially leading to overeating or frequent snacking. This nutritional profile makes Corn Pops less ideal for individuals managing diabetes or trying to control their sugar intake.

Vitamins and Minerals

Corn Pops are fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing their nutritional value. A serving typically provides:

• Vitamin D: 10% of Daily Value (DV)
• Iron: 50% of DV
• Vitamin B6: 20% of DV
• Vitamin B12: 25% of DV

These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, oxygen transport, and energy metabolism. The iron content is particularly noteworthy, as iron deficiency is a common nutritional concern.

However, it’s important to consider that fortified foods may not provide the same benefits as naturally occurring nutrients in whole foods. The bioavailability of these added vitamins and minerals can vary.

Product Packaging and Branding

Kellogg’s Corn Pops cereal comes in distinctive packaging that reflects the brand’s identity. The product’s packaging and branding elements play a crucial role in its market presence and consumer recognition.

Packaging Information

Kellogg’s Corn Pops are typically sold in cardboard boxes. The packaging features bright colors, often yellow and blue, with the product name prominently displayed. A standard box contains 8 ounces (226 grams) of cereal. The product’s UPC code is 036800195202.

Case packaging for retail distribution includes the following specifications:

• Case Net Weight: 8.750 LB
• Case Gross Weight: 10.350 LB
• Case Dimensions: 16.000 IN x 12.000 IN x 11.880 IN

The product package includes essential information such as nutrition facts, ingredients, and allergen warnings. It also features the SmartLabel™ logo, providing consumers with easy access to detailed product information.

Brand Details

Kellogg’s Corn Pops is a well-established brand under the Kellogg Company umbrella. The cereal is distributed by WK Kellogg Co, headquartered in Battle Creek, MI 49016. Kellogg’s branding for Corn Pops emphasizes the cereal’s sweet corn flavor and crispy texture.

The brand maintains a strong digital presence through the Kellogg Company US website and a dedicated SmartLabel page. These platforms offer comprehensive product details, nutritional information, and brand history. Kellogg’s uses consistent branding across its product line, with Corn Pops fitting into the company’s broader cereal portfolio.

Kellogg’s emphasizes transparency in its branding, encouraging consumers to refer to the product package for the most up-to-date nutrition and ingredient information. This approach aligns with the company’s commitment to consumer trust and product quality.

Manufacturing and Certifications

Kellogg’s Corn Pops undergo rigorous production processes and quality controls to ensure safety and compliance. The cereal meets various certifications and regulatory standards for food manufacturing in the United States.

Production Process

Corn Pops start with milled corn that is mixed with sugar, salt, and other ingredients. This mixture is cooked, shaped into small pieces, and then puffed using high pressure. The puffs are dried and coated with a sugar solution to give them their characteristic sweet taste and crunchy texture.

The cereal is then fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. This fortification process helps enhance the nutritional value of Corn Pops, adding key nutrients like iron, vitamin B6, and folic acid.

Finally, the cereal is packaged in bags or boxes, sealed, and prepared for distribution. Throughout production, automated systems and skilled workers monitor each step to maintain consistency and quality.

Quality and Safety

Kellogg’s implements strict quality control measures in Corn Pops production. Regular testing occurs at multiple stages to check for contaminants, ensure proper nutritional content, and verify taste and texture consistency.

Food safety protocols are rigorously followed, including:

• Sanitation of equipment and facilities
• Employee hygiene practices
• Allergen control measures
• Temperature monitoring during storage and transport

The company also conducts periodic audits and inspections to maintain high safety standards. Any issues detected are promptly addressed to prevent potential health risks to consumers.

Certifications and Compliance

Corn Pops manufacturing adheres to various industry certifications and regulatory requirements. The production facilities are certified under food safety management systems like FSSC 22000 or SQF.

Kellogg’s complies with FDA regulations for food manufacturing, including:

• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems
• Labeling requirements for nutritional information and allergen warnings

The company also voluntarily participates in third-party audits to verify compliance with food safety standards. These certifications help ensure that Corn Pops meet or exceed industry benchmarks for quality and safety.