Is Easy Living Cereal, Crispy Oat Squares, Cinnamon Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the label. When analyzing Whole grain oats, corn flour, and rice flour, we are looking at plant-based staples. These are the foundation of a vegan diet and pose no ethical issues. However, the scrutiny must increase as we move down the list.

The first potential hurdle is the sugar. In the food industry, refined white sugar is often processed using bone char (charred animal bones) to bleach it and remove impurities. Unless the manufacturer explicitly states the sugar is organic, unrefined, or specifically sourced from beets (which never use bone char), strict vegans often avoid it.

Next, we encounter natural flavor. This is a common catch-all term in food science. While 'natural' sounds wholesome, it can technically derive from both plant and animal sources. In a cinnamon-flavored cereal, natural flavor could be synthesized from plant compounds, but it could also utilize dairy derivatives to enhance mouthfeel. Without a specific breakdown from the manufacturer, this remains an unknown variable.

Finally, we look at the additives. Trisodium phosphate is a cleaning agent and food additive that is typically mined from rocks, making it vegan. The colors, specifically caramel color, paprika oleoresin, and turmeric oleoresin, are derived from vegetables and spices, confirming they are plant-based.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this cereal is a mixed bag. It relies heavily on whole grain oats and whole grain wheat, providing a decent source of fiber which is excellent for digestion and heart health. However, the sugar content is a significant concern. Like many processed breakfast cereals, the sweetness is likely derived from refined sugar, which contributes to empty calories and potential blood sugar spikes.

The inclusion of trisodium phosphate is interesting; while it helps the cereal maintain its texture, it is a source of phosphorus. High intake of phosphorus additives can be a concern for those with kidney issues, though it is generally safe for the average consumer. The vitamin fortification (Iron, B-Vitamins, Zinc) is a positive addition, turning a simple grain product into a fortified meal that helps meet daily requirements.