Are Kellogg's Apple Jacks Bad For You? Nutrition Facts & More

A Balanced Breakfast Option

Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal has been a breakfast favorite for generations. This colorful, sweetened cereal combines the flavors of apple and cinnamon in crunchy loops. A 1-cup serving (28g) of Apple Jacks contains 110 calories, 1g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein.

The cereal also provides essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B2, vitamin B1, folic acid, vitamin D3, and vitamin B12. Kellogg's uses SmartLabel technology to provide consumers with detailed nutritional information about their products.

SmartLabel allows easy access to ingredient lists, allergen information, and serving sizes. This transparency helps consumers make informed decisions about their food choices. Apple Jacks' nutrition facts are readily available through this platform, enabling shoppers to compare it with other breakfast options.

Kellogg's Apple Jacks Compared to Other Breakfast Cereals

Nutritional Overview

Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal provides a mix of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The cereal contains added sugars and some fat, with a moderate calorie content per serving.

Key Nutrients

Apple Jacks contain several essential vitamins and minerals. The cereal is fortified with iron, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B2, vitamin B1, folic acid, vitamin D3, and vitamin B12. These nutrients support various bodily functions and overall health.

A single serving provides 25% of the daily value for many of these vitamins and minerals. The cereal also contains small amounts of dietary fiber, which aids digestion.

Sodium content is present, with each serving containing about 135 mg. This accounts for approximately 6% of the recommended daily intake.

Caloric Content

A 28-gram serving (about 1 cup) of Apple Jacks contains 110 calories. This serving size aligns with the FDA's Reference Amounts Customarily Consumed (RACCs) for breakfast cereals.

The calorie breakdown is as follows:

Total Fat: 1g (1% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 25g (9% DV)
Total Sugars: 12g
Added Sugars: 12g (24% DV)
Protein: 1g

The cereal is relatively low in fat but high in carbohydrates, particularly added sugars. These sugars contribute significantly to the overall calorie content.

Vitamins and Minerals

Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals to support overall nutrition. The fortified cereal contains key nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.

Essential Vitamins

Apple Jacks contains several B vitamins, including niacin (B3), vitamin B6, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and vitamin B12. These B vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism and nervous system function. The cereal is also fortified with vitamin D3, which aids in calcium absorption and bone health.

Folic acid, a form of vitamin B9, is added to support cell growth and development. While not prominently featured, vitamin C may be present in small amounts due to the apple flavoring.

Mineral Content

Iron is a key mineral in Apple Jacks, added in its reduced form to enhance absorption. This mineral is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels.

Calcium is included to support bone and tooth health. The exact amount may vary, but it contributes to the daily calcium needs.

Zinc, though not explicitly mentioned in the search results, is often added to fortified cereals for its role in immune function and wound healing.

Potassium, which supports heart and muscle function, may be present in small quantities from the ingredients used.

Ingredient Analysis

Kellogg's Apple Jacks contains a mix of grains, sweeteners, and additives that contribute to its unique flavor and texture. The cereal's ingredients can be grouped into several key categories.

Grains and Flours

The primary grains in Apple Jacks are corn and wheat. A corn flour blend consisting of whole grain yellow corn flour and degerminated yellow corn flour forms the base. Whole grain oat flour adds nutritional value and texture. Wheat flour and wheat starch are also present, contributing to the cereal's structure.

Modified food starch, likely derived from corn or wheat, helps maintain the cereal's crispness. Oat fiber increases the product's fiber content, potentially supporting digestive health.

Sweeteners and Flavorings

Apple Jacks derives its sweetness from sugar and apple juice concentrate. These ingredients provide the cereal's characteristic sweet taste. Dried apples are included to enhance the apple flavor profile.

Natural flavors are added to boost the overall taste experience. These may include apple and cinnamon notes to complement the cereal's theme.

Additives and Preservatives

Several artificial colors are used in Apple Jacks, including Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5. These create the cereal's vibrant appearance.

BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is added as a preservative to maintain freshness and extend shelf life. This antioxidant helps prevent oils in the cereal from becoming rancid.

Vegetable oil is included to improve texture and mouthfeel. It may also help bind ingredients together during the manufacturing process.

Dietary Considerations

Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal has important allergen and nutritional factors to consider. Its ingredients and nutritional profile impact various dietary needs and health goals.

Allergen Information

Kellogg's Apple Jacks contains wheat and may contain traces of other common allergens. The cereal includes wheat flour as a key ingredient. Soy is also present in the form of soybean oil.

Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid Apple Jacks due to its wheat content. The product may be processed on equipment that also handles tree nuts, peanuts, and milk ingredients.

Individuals with food allergies should carefully review the full ingredient list and allergen statements before consuming.

Diet and Health Implications

Apple Jacks is a high-carbohydrate cereal with significant sugar content. One cup (28g) serving contains:

110 calories
25g carbohydrates
12g sugar
1g protein
1g fat

The cereal provides some fiber (2.6g per serving) and is fortified with vitamins and minerals. However, its high sugar content may be a concern for those monitoring blood sugar or trying to reduce sugar intake.

Apple Jacks is not suitable for low-carb or keto diets. The cereal can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation as part of an overall healthy eating plan.

Packaging and Distribution

Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal comes in various packaging sizes and is distributed widely across retail channels. The product's packaging provides key information about ingredients, nutrition, and the manufacturer.

Product Packaging Details

Apple Jacks typically come in colorful cardboard boxes featuring the brand's iconic mascots. Common pack sizes include 12.2 oz, 19.4 oz, and 26.8 oz boxes. The front of the package displays the product name, logo, and appetizing images of the cereal.

Nutritional information and ingredient lists are prominently featured on the side and back panels. The packaging also includes serving suggestions, preparation instructions, and storage recommendations. Many boxes include promotional content or games to engage consumers.

Manufacturer Information

WK Kellogg Co produces Apple Jacks at facilities in Battle Creek, Michigan. The company's name and address (Battle Creek, MI 49016) are printed on each package as required by regulations.

Kellogg's provides a branded website URL on the packaging where consumers can find additional product details. The company distributes Apple Jacks through major grocery chains, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces across the United States and select international markets.

Packaging also features consumer contact information for questions or feedback about the product. This typically includes a toll-free phone number and mailing address for the manufacturer.