Does Maple pecan granola cereal contain dairy or gluten?

It does not contain dairy ingredients, but it definitely contains gluten via barley malt syrup and potential wheat cross-contamination.

Is Maple pecan granola cereal good for weight loss?

Not really. It is high in calories and sugar, which can lead to energy crashes and overeating. It is better suited as a high-energy snack.

Where can I buy Maple pecan granola cereal?

This type of granola is widely available at major grocery chains, supermarkets, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is Maple pecan granola cereal safe for kids?

It is safe for kids who do not have gluten allergies, but the high sugar content means it should be eaten in moderation.

Is Maple pecan granola cereal Gluten Free?

No, Maple pecan granola cereal is not gluten-free. While oats are the primary ingredient, the inclusion of wheat and barley malt syrup makes this cereal unsafe for anyone with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. This article explains exactly which ingredients to watch out for.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims and go straight to the ingredient label. For this Maple pecan granola cereal, the verdict is clear: it contains gluten. The primary issue lies in the specific grains and flavorings used.

The first ingredient is whole rolled oats. While pure oats are naturally gluten-free, they are almost always processed in facilities that handle wheat. Unless the oats are certified gluten-free, there is a high risk of cross-contamination. Even worse, this cereal explicitly lists wheat in the 'may contain' warning, indicating that the facility processes wheat products alongside the oats.

The most definitive gluten-containing ingredient here is barley malt syrup. This is a common sweetener derived from barley, a grain that contains gluten. It is often used in granolas to add a distinct, malty flavor and aid in browning, but it is strictly off-limits for a gluten-free diet. Additionally, rice flour is used as a thickener; while rice is naturally gluten-free, it must be processed in a gluten-free environment to be safe, which this product likely is not given the presence of wheat.

Finally, the natural flavor and the warning that the product may contain traces of wheat seal the deal. Even if you were to pick out the visible wheat grains (which aren't listed as an active ingredient but are present in the facility), the cross-contamination risk is too high. Therefore, this cereal fails the gluten-free test.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

wheatbarleymalt

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this Maple pecan granola cereal is a calorie-dense food. A standard serving typically contains between 200 and 250 calories, with a significant portion coming from added sugars like milled cane sugar, maple syrup, and honey. While these provide energy, they also spike blood sugar levels, which isn't ideal for sustained energy throughout the morning.

Fat content is moderate to high, largely due to the pecans and the added vegetable oil. While pecans offer healthy monounsaturated fats, the processed oils add to the overall caloric load without providing substantial micronutrients. If you are watching your fat intake or trying to lose weight, portion control is essential here. This cereal fits better as an occasional treat or a topping for yogurt rather than a daily breakfast staple for weight management.