Does Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal contain dairy or gluten?

It definitely contains gluten from wheat and barley. It does not appear to contain dairy ingredients like milk powder, though it is processed in a facility that may handle milk.

Is Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal good for weight loss?

Due to the high sugar content and caloric density, it is not the best choice for strict weight loss compared to lower-sugar, high-protein breakfast options.

Where can I buy Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal?

It is widely available at major grocery chains like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online retailers like Amazon.

Is Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal safe for kids?

It is safe for children who do not have wheat allergies. However, parents should monitor the high sugar intake, which can lead to energy spikes and crashes.

Is Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal Gluten Free?

No, Crunchy Raisin Bran Flakes Cereal is not gluten-free. While it offers the classic crunch and sweetness of a bran cereal, its formulation relies heavily on wheat and barley ingredients. If you are managing Celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance, this specific product should be avoided.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist looking at the label, the verdict is clear: this cereal contains multiple sources of gluten. The primary culprit is whole grain wheat, listed as the very first ingredient. This forms the base of the flakes and provides the structure, but it is a prohibited grain for anyone on a gluten-free diet.

Further down the list, we see wheat bran and whole grain rolled wheat. These are concentrated sources of wheat fiber and protein. While bran is excellent for digestion in a standard diet, in this context, it adds to the total gluten load.

Perhaps the most deceptive ingredient for those new to label reading is malted barley syrup. Barley is a distinct gluten-containing grain. Manufacturers often use malted barley syrup as a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer to provide that distinctive 'malty' taste often associated with bran cereals. Even in small quantities, barley can trigger a reaction in sensitive individuals.

Finally, we must address the whole grain rolled oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are frequently cross-contaminated with wheat during harvesting and processing unless specifically certified. Because this product already contains wheat, the oats here are almost certainly not processed in a gluten-free facility, adding another layer of risk.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheatbarley

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this cereal is a mixed bag. It is fortified with a robust blend of vitamins and minerals, including Iron, Vitamin C, and B-Vitamins, which helps support daily energy levels. The inclusion of whole grains and wheat bran does provide a respectable amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and satiety.

However, the sugar content is a significant concern. With sugar, corn syrup, and molasses high on the ingredient list, this cereal leans heavily into the sweet side. A single serving can contain a substantial portion of the recommended daily added sugar limit. Additionally, the presence of high oleic canola oil and glycerin indicates the use of processing aids to maintain texture and moisture, which adds to the overall calorie count without providing significant micronutrient benefits.