Franken Berry, the iconic strawberry-flavored monster cereal from General Mills, has been a breakfast favorite for decades. This pink-hued treat offers more than just a sweet start to the day. A single cup serving of Franken Berry contains 127 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 85% carbohydrates, 10% fat, and 5% protein.
While Franken Berry may not be considered a health food, it does provide some nutritional benefits. The cereal contains 25% of the daily recommended value of iron, 15% of vitamin A, and 29% of vitamin B6 per serving. These nutrients play important roles in supporting overall health and wellbeing.
General Mills has formulated Franken Berry to be relatively low in fat, with only 1.4 grams per serving. The cereal does contain 9 grams of sugar per serving, which falls into the medium to high range for breakfast cereals. Consumers looking to monitor their sugar intake may want to be mindful of portion sizes when enjoying this nostalgic treat.
Nutritional Overview of Franken Berry Cereal
Franken Berry cereal offers a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients typical of sweetened breakfast cereals. It contains a moderate amount of calories primarily from carbohydrates, with small contributions from protein and fat.
Caloric Content and Macronutrients
A one-cup serving of Franken Berry cereal contains 130 calories. Carbohydrates make up the majority of these calories at 87%, while fat contributes 10% and protein accounts for 3%. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 28 grams per serving, including 9 grams of sugar.
The fat content is relatively low at 1.4 grams per serving. This includes small amounts of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. Franken Berry contains no trans fats.
Protein content is minimal, providing about 1 gram per serving. The cereal also contains a small amount of dietary fiber, though specific quantities vary between different formulations of the product.
Vitamins and Minerals Profile
Franken Berry cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals. It provides 25% of the daily recommended value for iron per serving, which is significant for a breakfast cereal. The product also contains vitamin A and various B vitamins, including vitamin B6.
Other minerals present in smaller amounts include calcium, zinc, and phosphorus. Sodium content should be noted, as it can contribute to daily intake limits. Potassium is also present in trace amounts.
The exact percentages of daily values for these micronutrients can vary based on the specific formulation and serving size. Consumers should refer to the nutrition label for the most accurate and up-to-date information on vitamin and mineral content.
Ingredients and Allergens
Franken Berry cereal contains a mix of grains, sugars, and additives. Its ingredients pose potential concerns for those with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.
Whole Grain and Sugar Content
Whole grain corn forms the base of Franken Berry cereal. This provides some fiber and nutrients. Corn meal is also included, adding texture and bulk. Sugar appears high on the ingredient list, indicating significant sweetness. Corn syrup adds additional sugar content.
The cereal contains 9 grams of sugar per serving. This amount may concern those monitoring sugar intake. The presence of multiple sugar sources contributes to the cereal’s sweet taste and pink color.
Marshmallows and Additives
Marshmallows are a key component of Franken Berry. These contain sugar, dextrose, modified corn starch, and gelatin. Artificial colors like Red 40 and Blue 1 & 2 give the marshmallows their distinctive hue.
The cereal includes canola oil and salt for flavor. Trisodium phosphate acts as a preservative. Natural and artificial flavors enhance the strawberry taste. These additives help create Franken Berry’s unique flavor profile and extend shelf life.
Potential Allergenic Compounds
Wheat is not listed as an ingredient, making Franken Berry potentially suitable for those avoiding gluten. However, corn is a main component, which some individuals may need to avoid.
The cereal contains gelatin in the marshmallows, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. Those with sensitivities to artificial colors or flavors should note their presence. The “natural flavors” listed may pose concerns for individuals with specific allergies, as their exact sources are not disclosed.
Health Considerations
Franken Berry cereal’s nutritional profile impacts daily dietary intake. Its composition affects how it fits into a balanced meal plan and overall health goals.
Impact on Diet and Daily Value Intake
Franken Berry contains 130 calories per cup, with 87% from carbohydrates. It provides 1g of fat and minimal protein. The cereal is fortified with vitamins and minerals, contributing to daily nutritional needs. Iron, calcium, and B vitamins are notable additions.
Sugar content is a primary concern. A serving contains a significant portion of recommended daily sugar intake. This high sugar level may affect blood glucose and contribute to excess calorie consumption if not moderated.
Sodium levels are relatively low, which is beneficial for those monitoring salt intake. The cereal is cholesterol-free, aligning with heart-healthy dietary guidelines.
Cereal as Part of a Balanced Meal
Incorporating Franken Berry into a balanced diet requires consideration. Its vitamin and mineral fortification can supplement nutrient intake, particularly for children who may be picky eaters.
Pairing the cereal with protein-rich foods like milk or yogurt can improve the meal’s nutritional balance. Adding fresh fruit increases fiber content and provides natural sweetness.
Portion control is crucial due to the cereal’s high sugar content. Mixing Franken Berry with lower-sugar cereals can reduce overall sugar intake while still enjoying its flavor.
For adults, Franken Berry may be better suited as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast staple. Its nostalgic appeal can be balanced with more nutrient-dense options throughout the week.
Certifications and Compliance
Franken Berry cereal adheres to FDA regulations and nutrition labeling requirements. These standards ensure consumers have accurate information about the product’s ingredients and nutritional content.
FDA Regulations
The FDA oversees the safety and labeling of cereals like Franken Berry. General Mills must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to ensure product quality and safety. The cereal’s ingredients are approved for use in food products. FDA regulations also cover aspects like packaging materials and storage conditions.
Franken Berry meets FDA standards for food coloring and artificial flavors. The agency monitors these additives to ensure they are safe for consumption in the quantities used.
Nutrition Facts Labeling
Franken Berry’s packaging displays a Nutrition Facts label in accordance with FDA guidelines. This label provides essential information about serving size, calories, and nutrient content.
The serving size for Franken Berry is typically 1 cup (33g). Nutrition information is based on this standardized amount. The label lists total calories, fat, carbohydrates, protein, and various vitamins and minerals per serving.
Percentages of Daily Values are included for key nutrients. These values help consumers understand how the cereal fits into their overall diet. The label also discloses the presence of any common allergens.
Brand and Product Information
Franken Berry cereal is a well-known breakfast product from General Mills. The company offers this iconic strawberry-flavored cereal as part of its Monster Cereals line.
General Mills’ Position in the Market
General Mills ranks among the largest food companies globally. The corporation produces numerous popular cereal brands, including Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Lucky Charms. Franken Berry contributes to General Mills’ strong presence in the breakfast cereal market.
General Mills introduced Franken Berry in 1971 as part of its Monster Cereals line. The product’s distinctive pink color and strawberry flavor helped it stand out on store shelves. Over the years, Franken Berry has maintained a loyal following, especially during the Halloween season.
Variations of Franken Berry Products
General Mills has expanded the Franken Berry brand beyond the original cereal. The company has released limited-edition variations to keep the product line fresh and exciting for consumers.
Some variations include:
- Franken Berry Fruit Roll-Ups
- Franken Berry-flavored yogurt
- Franken Berry Fruit by the Foot
These spin-off products allow fans to enjoy the Franken Berry flavor in different formats. General Mills occasionally introduces seasonal packaging or special promotions to boost interest in the Franken Berry brand.
Consumer Information
Franken Berry cereal has been a popular breakfast choice for decades. Consumers can find it through various retail channels and have expressed mixed opinions about its taste and nutritional value.
Purchasing Options and Availability
Franken Berry is widely available in grocery stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Many large chains stock it year-round, while some smaller stores may only carry it seasonally. Amazon and other e-commerce platforms offer convenient purchasing options, often with bulk buying discounts.
Prices vary depending on location and retailer. A typical 9.6-ounce box ranges from $3 to $5. Some stores offer store-brand alternatives at lower price points.
Specialty shops occasionally stock limited-edition flavors or packaging. Collectors often seek these unique variants, which can command higher prices in the secondary market.
Customer Perception and Reviews
Consumer opinions on Franken Berry are diverse. Many praise its distinctive strawberry flavor and vibrant pink color. Nostalgic appeal is a common theme in positive reviews, with adults recalling fond childhood memories.
Some customers express concerns about the cereal’s nutritional content. The high sugar content is a frequent criticism. Parents often debate its suitability as a regular breakfast option for children.
Texture is another point of discussion. Some enjoy the crunchiness, while others find it too hard or that it becomes soggy quickly in milk. The cereal’s ability to turn milk pink is seen as a fun feature by many, especially younger consumers.
Taste preferences vary. Some find it too sweet, while others appreciate the strong strawberry flavor. A subset of reviewers notes an artificial aftertaste.
Nutritional Comparisons
Franken Berry cereal has a distinct nutritional profile compared to other breakfast cereals. Its strawberry flavor and marshmallow pieces contribute to a unique mix of nutrients and calorie content.
Franken Berry Versus Other Cereals
Franken Berry contains 386 calories per 100 grams, with 85 grams of carbohydrates. This calorie content is relatively high compared to many other breakfast cereals. The cereal provides 5.5 grams of protein per 100 grams.
Vitamin fortification is a key feature of Franken Berry. It contains significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly B12 and B3. When compared to non-cereal breakfast options like scrambled eggs, Franken Berry offers 145% more vitamin B12 coverage for daily needs.
The cereal’s sugar content is notable. As a frosted cereal with marshmallows, it likely contains more added sugars than unfrosted or non-marshmallow varieties.
Comparison with Other General Mills Cereals
Franken Berry shares similarities with other General Mills monster-themed cereals like Count Chocula. Both are part of the company’s line of cereals featuring marshmallow pieces.
Count Chocula and Franken Berry have comparable calorie and carbohydrate contents. The main difference lies in their flavoring – strawberry for Franken Berry and chocolate for Count Chocula.
Both cereals are fortified with similar vitamins and minerals. This makes their overall nutritional profiles quite alike, with the primary variation being in taste and appearance rather than nutritional content.
When compared to General Mills’ Cocoa Puffs, Franken Berry likely has a higher sugar content due to its marshmallow pieces. However, both cereals are similarly fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.