Is Flax Plus Raisin Bran Organic Cereal Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a cereal is Kosher, we look at the source of every ingredient and the processing methods used. For Flax Plus Raisin Bran Organic Cereal, the news is good. The primary ingredients are plant-based, which eliminates the most common Kosher concerns like meat and dairy mixing.

The base of the cereal consists of Whole wheat meal, wheat bran, and oat bran. While grains are inherently Kosher, they require inspection for small insects, which is standard procedure in organic processing. The sweetness comes from cane sugar and barley malt extract. Both are acceptable, provided the barley is processed correctly. The raisins are coated in sunflower oil, a safe plant fat, avoiding the issues often found with lard or non-Kosher dairy fats. Finally, tocopherols (Vitamin E) are used as a preservative; these are typically derived from vegetable oils and are perfectly acceptable.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this cereal is a solid choice for those looking to increase their fiber intake. The combination of flax seeds, wheat bran, and oat bran provides a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and heart health. However, consumers should be mindful of the cane sugar content. While organic sugar is preferred over refined white sugar, it still contributes to the total caloric load. A serving typically contains between 180 and 200 calories, making it a reasonable breakfast option if portion sizes are controlled. It fits well into a balanced diet focused on whole grains, but those strictly monitoring sugar intake should account for the raisins and added cane sugar.