Is Kelloggs frosted flakes Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I often find that the devil is in the details when analyzing processed breakfast foods. The base of milled corn and sugar is inherently plant-based. However, the issues arise with the specific additives used to create the texture and nutritional profile of the cereal.

The most obvious red flag is the marshmallows. Within the marshmallow mixture, you will find gelatin. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. In the context of Frosted Flakes, it is used as a gelling agent to give the marshmallows their distinct chewiness. Because it is an animal byproduct, it is strictly non-vegan.

The second, more subtle issue is the Vitamin D3 listed in the fortification blend. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the most effective form of Vitamin D for the human body, but it is almost exclusively derived from lanolin, a waxy substance extracted from sheep's wool. While some vegans debate the ethics of lanolin extraction, strict vegans generally avoid Vitamin D3 as it is an animal-derived nutrient. The alternative, Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol), is plant-derived, but Kelloggs does not use it here.

Finally, the natural flavor listed within the marshmallows is a vague term. While it isn't automatically non-vegan, in sweet products like marshmallows, natural flavors can sometimes contain dairy derivatives to round out the taste profile. Combined with the gelatin and D3, the product is definitively not vegan.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Kelloggs Frosted Flakes are classified as a high-sugar, high-carbohydrate processed food. A standard serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, which contributes to the sweet taste but offers little satiety. The cereal is low in fat and moderate in calories, but the lack of fiber and protein means it likely won't keep you full for long.

Because it is fortified with a wide array of vitamins and minerals (including the non-vegan Vitamin D3), it technically meets some daily nutritional requirements. However, relying on Frosted Flakes for nutrition means you are also consuming a high glycemic load, which can spike blood sugar levels. It fits within a standard diet as an occasional treat, but it is not a health food.