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Is Life multigrain cereal original Vegan?

The short answer is MAYBE. Life multigrain cereal original does not contain obvious animal products like milk, eggs, or honey. However, strict vegans may want to avoid it due to the processing of the sugar. Here is the full breakdown of why this cereal sits in a gray area.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is vegan, we have to look beyond the front of the box. For Life multigrain cereal original, the ingredient list is surprisingly clean regarding obvious animal products, but there is one major flag.

Whole Grain Oat Flour, Corn Flour, and Whole Wheat Flour: These form the base of the cereal. They are 100% plant-based. However, it is important to note that while the ingredients themselves are vegan, oats are frequently processed in facilities that also handle wheat and dairy. This poses a risk of cross-contamination, though it does not change the ingredients list itself.

Sugar: This is the most controversial ingredient. In the United States, table sugar (sucrose) is often processed using bone char (charred animal bones) to bleach it white. Unless the manufacturer specifies "organic," "unrefined," or "cane sugar," the sugar in Life cereal may not be strictly vegan. Additionally, the annatto used for color is plant-derived, but the tocopherols (Vitamin E) can sometimes be derived from soy or other plant sources, which is safe for vegans.

Vitamins and Minerals: The fortified vitamins like niacinamide and riboflavin are synthetic or fermented, making them vegan. However, calcium carbonate is a mineral salt that is typically vegan (derived from limestone), but reduced iron is added to fortify the cereal.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:
sugar

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Life cereal is marketed as a healthy breakfast option. It is a whole grain cereal, meaning it provides fiber which is essential for digestive health. A serving provides a significant portion of your daily whole grain needs.

Regarding sugar, a serving contains roughly 6 to 8 grams of added sugar. While this is lower than many sugary kids' cereals, it is still a consideration for those on a low-sugar diet. The cereal is fortified with 11 vitamins and minerals, making it a decent source of iron and B vitamins. For vegans, who sometimes struggle to get B12 from plant sources, the fortification is a nutritional plus, provided you are comfortable with the sugar source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Life multigrain cereal original contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy ingredients. However, it contains whole wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. It may also be processed in facilities that handle milk.

Is Life multigrain cereal original good for weight loss?

It can be part of a weight loss plan due to its fiber content, which promotes satiety. However, the added sugar content means portion control is necessary.

Where can I buy Life multigrain cereal original?

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

Is Life multigrain cereal original safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally marketed as a family cereal. It is low in sodium and does not contain caffeine, but parents should monitor the sugar intake.
Life multigrain cereal original

Life multigrain cereal original

Vegan Analysis

The Verdict
Risky / Complicated
Find Alternative

We recommend searching for certified Vegan alternatives.

Pro Tip

Always double-check the label. Manufacturers change ingredients frequently without notice!