Quaker Life Cinnamon Nutrition Facts & More
A Balanced Breakfast Option
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal offers a delightful twist on the classic breakfast staple. This cinnamon-infused version adds a warm, spicy kick to the familiar multigrain squares, creating a flavor-packed morning experience.
One cup (42g) of Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal contains 160 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 80% carbohydrates, 11% fat, and 10% protein. The cereal provides 3g of dietary fiber and 10g of sugars per serving. It also contains essential nutrients like calcium, with each serving providing 12% of the daily recommended value.
The cinnamon flavor enhances the overall taste profile without compromising the nutritional benefits of the original Life cereal. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking a balance between indulgence and nutrition in their breakfast routine. The cereal's texture strikes a balance between crunchiness and softness, contributing to its popularity among cereal enthusiasts.
Overview of Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal combines the classic crunch of Life Cereal with a warm cinnamon flavor. This popular breakfast option offers a balance of taste and nutrition.
Brand History
Quaker Oats introduced Life Cereal in 1961, expanding its product line beyond traditional oatmeal. The original Life Cereal quickly gained popularity for its unique square shape and lightly sweetened taste. Cinnamon Life, a flavored variant, was launched later to cater to consumers seeking more diverse breakfast options.
The cereal's iconic "Mikey Likes It" commercial campaign in the 1970s significantly boosted its recognition. Over the years, Life Cereal has maintained its position as a household favorite, with Cinnamon Life becoming one of the brand's most successful flavors.
Product Varieties
Quaker offers several varieties of Life Cereal:
Original Life
Cinnamon Life
Vanilla Life
Chocolate Life
Cinnamon Life stands out for its bold flavor profile. It combines the classic Life Cereal base with a generous dusting of cinnamon, creating a sweet and spicy taste experience.
The cereal is available in various package sizes, from single-serving bowls to family-sized boxes, catering to different household needs and preferences.
Cereal Composition
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal is made primarily from whole grain oat flour, providing a good source of fiber. The ingredient list includes:
Whole grain oat flour
Sugar
Corn flour
Cinnamon
Salt
Calcium carbonate
Vitamin and mineral fortifications
A one-cup serving (42g) of Cinnamon Life contains:
160 calories
2g fat
33g carbohydrates
4g protein
Various vitamins and minerals
The cereal maintains a balance between nutrition and taste, offering a moderately sweet flavor while still providing essential nutrients. Its crunchy texture and cinnamon-enhanced taste make it a popular choice for both direct consumption and as an ingredient in various recipes.
Nutritional Profile
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal offers a mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. It contains added sugars and some dietary fats, providing energy and essential nutrients.
Macronutrients
A 1-cup (42g) serving of Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal contains 160 calories. The primary macronutrient is carbohydrates, with 33g per serving. This includes 4g of dietary fiber, contributing to daily fiber intake.
Protein content is moderate at 4g per serving, supporting muscle maintenance and growth. The cereal contains 2g of total fat, making it a relatively low-fat breakfast option.
Vitamins and Minerals
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal is fortified with several essential vitamins and minerals. It provides calcium carbonate, supporting bone health. The cereal also contains iron, important for oxygen transport in the body.
Other notable nutrients include phosphorus, magnesium, and B-vitamins like riboflavin and folate. These contribute to various bodily functions, including energy metabolism and cell growth.
Sugars and Sweeteners
Sugar is the second ingredient listed, indicating a significant presence in the cereal. The exact amount of added sugars is not specified in the available information.
Consumers should be mindful of their daily sugar intake. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to 25g per day for women and 37g for men.
Dietary Fats
The cereal contains 2g of total fat per serving. The fat content is relatively low, making it suitable for those monitoring their fat intake.
The specific types of fats (saturated, unsaturated, trans) are not detailed in the provided information. However, whole grain ingredients like oats and wheat typically contribute some healthy unsaturated fats.
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal does not contain cholesterol, making it a heart-friendly option for those managing their cholesterol levels.
Health Considerations
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal offers nutritional benefits and potential drawbacks. Its composition impacts various aspects of health, from digestive function to blood sugar levels.
Dietary Fiber Benefits
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal contains 3g of dietary fiber per serving. This fiber aids digestion and promotes gut health. It helps maintain regular bowel movements and may reduce the risk of constipation.
Fiber also contributes to feelings of fullness, potentially assisting in weight management. The cereal provides 11% of the Daily Value for fiber, supporting heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.
Consuming adequate fiber through cereals like Life Cinnamon can contribute to a balanced diet. It may help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for overall metabolic health.
Sugar Content Implications
A serving of Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal contains 10g of added sugars. This amount represents 20% of the Daily Value for added sugars, based on a 2000-calorie diet.
Excessive sugar intake can lead to various health issues, including tooth decay and weight gain. It may also contribute to increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease over time.
The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to 25g per day for women and 36g for men. One serving of this cereal accounts for a significant portion of that recommended limit.
Role of Fats
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal contains 2g of fat per serving. This relatively low fat content contributes to its overall calorie count of 160 per serving.
The cereal does not contain cholesterol, which is beneficial for heart health. It also appears to be free from trans fats, which are known to increase bad cholesterol levels and decrease good cholesterol.
While the fat content is low, it's important to consider the type of fats present. The cereal likely contains small amounts of unsaturated fats, which are generally considered healthier than saturated fats.
Additives and Preservatives
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal, like many processed foods, may contain additives and preservatives. These ingredients help maintain the cereal's texture, flavor, and shelf life.
Common additives in cereals include artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of these substances.
Natural flavor enhancers, such as cinnamon, contribute to the cereal's taste without the need for excessive artificial additives. However, the exact composition of additives in this cereal would require a detailed ingredient list review.
Dietary and Nutritional Claims
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal offers several nutritional benefits and dietary considerations. The product makes specific claims about its ingredients and nutritional profile.
Whole Grain Content
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal is made with whole grains. Whole grains provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The cereal contains a significant amount of whole grain oats and whole wheat flour.
These ingredients contribute to the cereal's fiber content, which is important for digestive health. Whole grains also offer complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy throughout the morning.
Non-GMO and Organic Options
Quaker offers non-GMO versions of their Life Cereal line. This means the ingredients used in these products are not genetically modified.
Some consumers prefer non-GMO foods due to personal or environmental concerns. While Quaker produces non-GMO options, it's important to check the specific package labeling to confirm the non-GMO status of Cinnamon Life Cereal.
Organic versions of Life Cereal are not currently available. Consumers seeking organic options may need to explore other brands or cereal types.
Gluten-Free and Allergen Information
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal is not gluten-free. It contains wheat, which is a common source of gluten. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product.
The cereal may contain traces of other allergens due to manufacturing processes. Common allergens that might be present include soy and milk. Quaker provides allergen information on their packaging to help consumers make informed choices.
Those with specific food allergies should carefully review the ingredient list and allergen statements before consuming Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal.
Consumption Tips
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal offers versatile serving options and can stay fresh with proper storage. Enjoying this cereal in moderation can be part of a balanced breakfast or snack.
Serving Suggestions
Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal is traditionally enjoyed with cold milk. Pour 1 cup (43g) of cereal into a bowl and add 1/2 cup of milk for a quick breakfast. For added nutrition, top with sliced bananas, berries, or chopped nuts.
The cereal can also be used in creative ways:
• Mix into yogurt for a crunchy parfait • Use as a topping for baked apples • Crush and use as a coating for baked chicken • Incorporate into homemade trail mix
For a warm treat, heat milk before adding it to the cereal. This enhances the cinnamon flavor.
Storage and Freshness
To maintain optimal freshness, store Quaker Life Cinnamon Cereal in a cool, dry place. After opening, transfer the cereal to an airtight container or reseal the bag tightly. This prevents moisture and air from affecting the texture and flavor.
Check the "best by" date on the package. While the cereal is often safe to eat after this date, it may lose some freshness and nutritional value.
To extend shelf life:
• Keep away from direct sunlight • Store in a pantry rather than near appliances that generate heat • Use a clip to tightly seal the bag between uses
Properly stored, an opened box typically stays fresh for 2-3 months.
Comparative Analysis with Similar Products
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal offers a unique nutritional profile compared to other breakfast options. Its macronutrient balance, vitamin fortification, and market positioning set it apart from competitors.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Quaker Life Cinnamon contains 160 calories per 39g serving. It provides 33g of total carbohydrates, including 3g of dietary fiber and 10g of sugar. The protein content is 4g per serving.
Compared to similar cinnamon-flavored cereals, Life Cinnamon has a moderate sugar content. Some competitors offer lower sugar options, while others contain significantly more.
The whole grain content in Life Cinnamon gives it an edge in fiber. Many comparable cereals have 1-2g of fiber per serving, while Life Cinnamon provides 3g.
Vitamin and Mineral Density
Life Cinnamon is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. It contains 25% of the daily value for several B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and B6.
The cereal also provides 10% of the daily value for iron and 15% for zinc. These levels are competitive with other fortified cereals on the market.
Calcium content in Life Cinnamon is notable at 12% of the daily value per serving. This is higher than some similar products but lower than cereals specifically marketed for calcium content.
Price and Availability
Quaker Life Cinnamon is widely available in most grocery stores across the United States. It is typically priced in the mid-range for branded cereals.
Compared to generic or store-brand cinnamon cereals, Life Cinnamon may be more expensive. However, it is often more affordable than premium or organic cinnamon-flavored options.
Quaker frequently offers promotions and coupons for Life cereal, which can make it more cost-competitive with other brands. Family-size boxes provide better value per serving than smaller packages.
Market Presence and Availability
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal has established a strong presence in the breakfast food market. The product is widely available through various retail channels and online platforms, catering to consumers across different regions.
Retail Distribution
Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal can be found in most major grocery store chains across the United States. Large retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger stock this popular breakfast option on their shelves. Many regional supermarkets and local grocery stores also carry the product. Convenience stores and some drugstore chains may offer smaller package sizes for on-the-go consumers.
Online Shopping Options
E-commerce platforms provide convenient access to Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal. Amazon, a major online retailer, offers the product through its marketplace, often with Prime shipping options. Walmart.com and Target.com also list the cereal for online purchase and home delivery. Some online grocery delivery services like Instacart and Shipt include Quaker Life Cinnamon in their product catalogs.
International Availability
While Quaker Life Cinnamon cereal is primarily marketed in North America, it has limited availability in select international markets. Canada has widespread distribution similar to the United States. In some European countries, the product may be found in specialty stores catering to American food products. Online retailers occasionally offer international shipping options, allowing consumers in other countries to purchase the cereal, albeit at higher costs due to import fees and shipping charges.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Quaker's Life Cinnamon cereal production involves various sustainability practices and corporate responsibility initiatives. The company aims to balance consumer satisfaction with environmental stewardship and ethical business conduct.
Sustainability Practices
Quaker implements several eco-friendly measures in producing Life Cinnamon cereal. The brand uses recyclable packaging materials, reducing plastic waste. Quaker has also invested in energy-efficient manufacturing processes, lowering its carbon footprint.
The company sources ingredients responsibly, partnering with farmers who employ sustainable agricultural practices. This approach helps conserve soil health and water resources.
Quaker has set targets to reduce food waste in its production facilities. The brand repurposes cereal byproducts, minimizing landfill contributions.
Corporate Responsibility
Quaker, as part of PepsiCo, adheres to strict ethical guidelines in its business operations. The company maintains fair labor practices, ensuring safe working conditions and fair wages for employees involved in Life Cinnamon cereal production.
Quaker supports local communities through various initiatives. The brand participates in hunger relief programs, donating surplus cereal to food banks.
The company invests in nutrition education programs, promoting healthy eating habits among consumers. Quaker also engages in transparent labeling practices, providing clear nutritional information on Life Cinnamon cereal packaging.
