Barbara's Puffins Nutrition Facts & More
A Comprehensive Guide to This Popular Cereal
Barbara's Puffins cereal has gained popularity among health-conscious consumers seeking a nutritious breakfast option. This crunchy, lightly sweetened cereal offers a balance of essential nutrients while keeping calorie content moderate. One serving (27g) of Barbara's Original Puffins contains 90 calories, with 8% of calories from protein, 84% from carbohydrates, and 8% from fat.
The cereal provides 6 grams of dietary fiber per serving, which represents 21% of the recommended daily intake. This significant fiber content contributes to digestive health and may promote feelings of fullness. Barbara's Puffins also contain 6 grams of sugar per serving, including 6 grams of added sugars.
For those monitoring their sodium intake, it's worth noting that a serving of Original Puffins contains 210mg of sodium, which is 9% of the daily recommended value. The cereal is cholesterol-free and low in fat, making it a potential option for individuals following certain dietary guidelines.
Barbara's Puffins Cereal Overview
Barbara's Puffins is a popular cereal brand produced by Barbara's Bakery. The cereal comes in several flavors, including Original, Cinnamon, Peanut Butter, and Multigrain.
Puffins cereal is known for its crunchy, pillow-shaped pieces made primarily from corn and oats. It offers a low-fat, low-sugar alternative to many mainstream cereals.
The Original Puffins variety contains 130 calories per 3/4 cup (30g) serving. It provides 6 grams of dietary fiber and 3 grams of protein.
Nutritional highlights of Barbara's Puffins include:
Low in fat (1-2 grams per serving)
No saturated fat
6-7 grams of sugar per serving
Good source of fiber (6 grams per serving)
Fortified with vitamins and minerals
Barbara's Puffins cereal is often praised for its texture and ability to stay crunchy in milk. The different flavors offer variety while maintaining similar nutritional profiles.
The cereal can be enjoyed on its own with milk or used as a topping for yogurt and smoothie bowls. Its versatility and nutritional benefits have made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers.
Nutritional Profile
Barbara's Puffins cereal provides a mix of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein with minimal fat content. It contains several essential vitamins and minerals, though in relatively modest amounts.
Macronutrients
A 3/4 cup (30g) serving of Barbara's Original Puffins contains 90-130 calories. The primary macronutrient is carbohydrates, with 30-32g per serving. This includes 6g of dietary fiber, meeting 21% of the daily value. The cereal contains 6g of sugars, including 6g of added sugars.
Protein content is modest at 2.7-3g per serving. Fat content is very low at 1-1.3g, with no saturated or trans fats. This makes Puffins a low-fat breakfast option.
Vitamins and Minerals
Barbara's Puffins provide small amounts of several micronutrients. Calcium content is 10mg per serving, meeting 1% of the daily value. The cereal contains no vitamin D.
Sodium content is moderate at 210mg, representing 9% of the daily value. This is an important consideration for those monitoring salt intake.
Other vitamins and minerals are present in trace amounts, but specific values are not provided in the available nutritional data. The cereal does not appear to be a significant source of iron, potassium, or B vitamins based on the information given.
Ingredients Analysis
Barbara's Puffins cereals contain a mix of grains, sweeteners, and other components carefully selected for taste and nutrition. The ingredients work together to create the distinctive crunchy texture and flavor profile of Puffins while providing essential nutrients.
Main Ingredients
Whole grain oat flour forms the primary base of Barbara's Puffins cereals. This ingredient contributes fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. Corn flour is another key component, adding structure and crispness to the cereal puffs.
For sweetness, Barbara's uses a combination of cane sugar and unsulfured molasses. These natural sweeteners provide flavor without relying solely on refined sugars. Corn bran enhances the fiber content and adds a subtle nutty taste.
Additional Components
Sea salt is included in small amounts to balance flavors and enhance the overall taste profile. Baking soda serves as a leavening agent, contributing to the light, airy texture of the cereal puffs.
Tocopherols, a form of vitamin E, are added as a natural preservative. This ingredient helps maintain freshness and extend shelf life without the use of artificial preservatives.
Barbara's Puffins are notably free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The ingredient list focuses on simple, recognizable components, aligning with consumer preferences for cleaner labels.
Serving Size and Usage
Barbara's Puffins cereal typically comes in a standard serving size of 3/4 cup to 1 cup. This serving size weighs approximately 27-40 grams, depending on the specific product variant.
The recommended serving provides around 90-130 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie breakfast option. It contains about 1 gram of total fat and minimal saturated fat.
For those tracking their nutritional intake, Barbara's Puffins can be found in many food databases and calorie counters. These tools often include detailed information on serving sizes and nutritional content.
When using Barbara's Puffins as part of a balanced diet, consumers can easily measure out the recommended serving using a standard measuring cup. This helps ensure accurate portion control and nutritional tracking.
The cereal can be enjoyed with milk, yogurt, or as a dry snack. Some people incorporate it into recipes or use it as a topping for other dishes, adjusting the serving size as needed.
Dietary Considerations
Barbara's Puffins cereal offers several nutritional benefits and accommodates various dietary needs. This popular breakfast option provides key nutrients while catering to certain dietary restrictions.
Dietary Restrictions
Barbara's Puffins are gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The cereal is also vegan, containing no animal-derived ingredients.
For those watching their calorie intake, Puffins provide a low-calorie option with approximately 130 calories per serving. The cereal is relatively low in fat, containing only about 1.3 grams per serving.
Puffins contain around 6 grams of sugar per serving, which is lower than many other breakfast cereals. This makes them a good choice for people looking to reduce their sugar consumption.
Health Benefits
Puffins are high in fiber, with about 6 grams per serving. This represents 21% of the recommended daily intake. Fiber aids digestion, promotes feelings of fullness, and may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
The cereal's whole grain content contributes to heart health. Whole grains have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and improved cardiovascular function.
Puffins are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and iron. These nutrients support bone health and help prevent anemia.
The low fat and calorie content of Puffins can be beneficial for weight management when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Comparative Analysis
Barbara's Puffins cereal occupies a distinct position in the breakfast cereal market. Its unique texture and nutritional profile set it apart from many conventional options.
Similar Products
Barbara's Puffins competes with several other cereals in the health-conscious segment. Corn Flakes, Bran Flakes, and Shredded Wheat are common alternatives. These cereals often have comparable calorie counts, ranging from 120-150 calories per serving.
Puffed Rice Cereal is another similar product, known for its light texture. However, Barbara's Puffins typically offer more fiber and protein. Compared to Corn Flakes, Puffins contain less sugar and more dietary fiber.
Bran Flakes generally have higher fiber content but may lack the crunchy texture of Puffins. Shredded Wheat provides a wholesome option but differs significantly in taste and texture.
Unique Selling Propositions
Barbara's Puffins stand out due to their distinctive puffed shape and crunchy texture. This cereal maintains its crispness in milk longer than many competitors.
The nutritional profile of Puffins is a key selling point. With 6-7 grams of fiber per serving, it surpasses many similar cereals. The low sugar content, typically around 6-7 grams per serving, appeals to health-conscious consumers.
Puffins come in various flavors, including Original, Peanut Butter, and Honey Rice. This variety caters to different taste preferences while maintaining a relatively healthy nutritional profile.
The cereal is often marketed as gluten-free, appealing to those with dietary restrictions. Its simple ingredient list aligns with the growing demand for less processed foods.
Consumer Insights
Barbara's Puffins cereal has gained popularity among health-conscious consumers. The brand's focus on whole grains and fiber resonates with those seeking nutritious breakfast options.
Customer Preferences
Consumers value Barbara's Puffins for its low sugar content and high fiber. Many appreciate the cereal's crunchy texture and light, satisfying taste. The Original flavor remains a top seller, appealing to those who enjoy simple, wholesome options.
Customers also show interest in variety. Barbara's has responded by offering flavors like Peanut Butter and Cinnamon. These alternatives cater to diverse palates while maintaining the brand's commitment to nutrition.
The gluten-free options have attracted celiac and gluten-sensitive consumers. This market segment values Barbara's dedication to providing safe, tasty alternatives to traditional wheat-based cereals.
Market Trends
Health-conscious eating continues to drive cereal market trends. Barbara's Puffins aligns well with the demand for lower sugar, higher fiber products. The brand's use of whole grains meets consumers' desire for less processed options.
Plant-based diets are gaining momentum. Barbara's Puffins, being vegan-friendly, appeals to this growing demographic. The cereal's versatility as a snack or recipe ingredient also fits the trend of all-day cereal consumption.
Sustainability concerns influence purchasing decisions. Barbara's commitment to non-GMO ingredients and environmentally friendly packaging resonates with eco-conscious consumers. This alignment with current values helps maintain brand loyalty in a competitive market.
