Does All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes contain dairy or gluten?

No, the ingredients list does not contain dairy. However, it contains whole grain wheat and wheat bran, so it is definitely not gluten-free.

Is All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes good for weight loss?

Yes, the high fiber content (100% daily value) helps keep you full longer, which can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.

Where can I buy All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes?

You can find it at most major grocery stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online through Amazon.

Is All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for children, though the high fiber content might be heavy for very young toddlers. It does not contain caffeine.

Is All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes Vegan?

The short answer is MAYBE. While All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes do not contain obvious animal products like milk or honey, they contain sugar that may be processed using bone char, making them a gray area for strict vegans. This article breaks down exactly why this popular fiber cereal poses a dilemma for plant-based eaters.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food fits a vegan lifestyle, we have to look beyond the obvious. All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes are built on a foundation of whole grain wheat and wheat bran, which are undeniably plant-based. However, the processing aids and additives are where things get complicated.

The primary sticking point is the sugar. In the United States, a significant portion of refined white sugar is processed using bone char (charred animal bones) to remove impurities and whiten the product. While the sugar itself is chemically plant-derived, the filtration method renders it non-vegan for many. Unless the manufacturer explicitly states they use organic sugar, beet sugar, or unrefined cane sugar, it is impossible to guarantee the sugar is vegan.

Another ingredient to watch is malt flavoring. While malt flavoring is typically derived from barley, it is sometimes processed on equipment shared with dairy products. Additionally, the inclusion of BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve freshness. While BHT is lab-made and not an animal product, it is a controversial additive that some health-conscious vegans prefer to avoid due to animal testing concerns.

Finally, we must analyze the vitamins and minerals. The fortification list includes Vitamin D. Most Vitamin D used in cereals is Vitamin D3, which is usually derived from lanolin (sheep's wool). While some D3 is now synthesized from lichen (vegan), General Mills does not typically specify the source on the box, leaving the Vitamin D source ambiguous.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

sugar

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, All-Bran Complete Wheat Flakes are a powerhouse. They are designed specifically to provide a massive dose of fiber—100% of your daily value in just one serving. This makes them an excellent choice for digestive health and maintaining satiety throughout the morning.

Regarding the macronutrients, the cereal is relatively low in fat and moderate in calories (around 90-100 calories per serving depending on the specific variation). The protein content is decent for a grain-based cereal, hovering around 4-5 grams. However, the sugar content is the main nutritional flag. While not as high as frosted desserts, it contains roughly 5-6 grams of added sugar per serving. For a strict vegan diet focused on whole foods, this added sugar is often the reason to skip this product.