Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares Nutrition Facts & More
A Balanced Breakfast Option
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares offer a convenient and satisfying snack option for those seeking a balance of flavor and nutrition. These soft-baked oatmeal squares combine the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a tasty treat that appeals to many palates.
Each serving of Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contains 150 calories and provides 12 grams of whole grains. The squares are made with whole grain oats and whole wheat flour, contributing to their hearty texture and nutritional profile. They also contain brown sugar, canola oil, and a molasses-flavored coating for added sweetness and moisture.
These portable snacks are designed for on-the-go consumption, making them suitable for lunchboxes, hiking trails, or quick energy boosts throughout the day. While they offer some nutritional benefits, it's important to consider their sugar content as part of a balanced diet.
Nutritional Profile
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares offer a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients in a convenient snack format. These soft-baked oatmeal squares provide energy from carbohydrates, some protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Macronutrients
A single 35g serving of Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contains 150 calories. The squares provide 23g of total carbohydrates, including 3g of dietary fiber and 9g of sugar.
The fat content is 5g per serving. This includes some saturated fat, though the exact amount is not specified in the available information.
Each square contains 2g of protein, contributing to the overall nutritional value. The protein content, while modest, can help with satiety.
Vitamins and Minerals
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contain several important vitamins and minerals. The exact quantities are not provided in the search results, but these squares likely contribute to daily intake of nutrients.
Whole grain oats, a key ingredient, typically provide B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients support energy metabolism and overall health.
The squares may also contain small amounts of calcium and potassium. However, without specific data, it's difficult to determine how significantly they contribute to recommended daily intakes.
Sodium content should be considered, especially for those monitoring their salt intake. The exact amount is not specified in the available information.
Ingredients Analysis
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contain a mix of grains, sweeteners, oils, and additives. Understanding the key components provides insight into the nutritional profile and potential health impacts of this snack.
Grains and Sugars
Whole grain oats and whole grain wheat flour form the base of these squares. These grains provide fiber and essential nutrients. However, the product also contains multiple sweeteners. Sugar and brown sugar are listed prominently on the ingredient list. Tapioca syrup, a less refined sweetener, is also included.
Raisin juice concentrate adds natural sweetness. Chicory root extract may contribute additional fiber and sweetness. The combination of these sugars likely contributes significantly to the total sugar content and overall calorie count of the product.
Additives and Preservatives
Canola oil provides fat content and helps bind the ingredients. Vegetable glycerin acts as a humectant, keeping the squares moist. Baking soda serves as a leavening agent.
Natural flavor enhances the cinnamon-brown sugar taste. Soy lecithin is an emulsifier that helps blend ingredients and extend shelf life. These additives improve texture, flavor, and product stability but add minimal nutritional value.
Allergens
The squares contain several common allergens. Wheat and soy are present in the grain base and additives. Milk-derived whey and egg whites are also included.
While not directly listed, the product may be processed in facilities that handle peanuts and tree nuts. This poses a potential cross-contamination risk for individuals with severe nut allergies.
Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the wheat content. Individuals with milk, egg, or soy allergies should also exercise caution.
Dietary Considerations
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares offer a mix of nutritional benefits and potential concerns. These oatmeal squares contain whole grains and natural flavors, but also include added sugars and allergens.
Allergy Information
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contain several common allergens. The ingredients list includes wheat, milk, egg, and soy. These components may pose risks for individuals with specific food sensitivities or allergies.
The product is made with whole grain wheat flour, which is unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Whey, a milk derivative, is present and may affect lactose-intolerant consumers.
Egg white is used in the recipe, making the squares unsafe for people with egg allergies. Soy lecithin, a common emulsifier, is also included.
It's important to note that the squares do not contain nuts or peanuts as ingredients. However, cross-contamination during manufacturing is always a possibility.
Whole Grain Benefits
The primary ingredients in these oatmeal squares are whole grain oats and whole grain wheat flour. Whole grains offer numerous health benefits.
Each serving provides 12g of whole grains, contributing to the recommended daily intake. Whole grains are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
These complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy release. They also contain essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
Whole grains have been linked to reduced risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. They may also support weight management due to their satiating properties.
Healthier Sweetening Options
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares contain multiple sweeteners. Brown sugar and regular sugar are used, contributing to the total sugar content.
The product also includes tapioca syrup and raisin juice concentrate as sweeteners. These natural options may be perceived as healthier alternatives to refined sugar.
Chicory root extract is another ingredient that can add sweetness while providing fiber. It's a prebiotic that may support gut health.
For those seeking to reduce sugar intake, homemade alternatives could use natural sweeteners like mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. These options add flavor and moisture while reducing added sugars.
Cinnamon, a key flavor in these squares, can enhance sweetness perception without adding calories or sugar.
Product Information
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares offer a convenient and flavorful snack option. These bars combine whole grain oats with cinnamon and brown sugar for a satisfying treat.
Packaging and Serving
Nature Valley packages these oatmeal squares in individual wrappers for easy portability. Each bar weighs 35 grams and contains 150 calories. The serving size is one bar, making it simple to track nutritional intake.
The product comes in boxes containing multiple individually wrapped bars. This packaging allows for freshness and convenience, whether at home, work, or on outdoor adventures.
UPC codes on the packaging help with inventory tracking and purchasing. The nutrition label provides detailed information on calories, carbohydrates, sugars, and other nutritional components per serving.
Company Background
General Mills, a major American multinational food manufacturing company, produces Nature Valley products. The company has a long history in the food industry, dating back to the 1860s.
Nature Valley, as a brand under General Mills, focuses on creating snack bars and granola products. The brand emphasizes the use of whole grains and natural flavors in its offerings.
General Mills has positioned Nature Valley as a go-to option for health-conscious consumers seeking convenient, wholesome snacks. The brand's product line has expanded over the years to include various flavors and formats.
Product Variants
Nature Valley offers several variants of their Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares. The Cinnamon Brown Sugar flavor is one popular option in this product line.
Other flavors in the Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares range may include:
Peanut Butter
Honey
Blueberry
These variants provide different taste experiences while maintaining the core concept of soft-baked oatmeal bars. Each flavor has its unique nutritional profile, though they generally share similar calorie counts and whole grain content.
Nature Valley also produces other product lines like crunchy granola bars and protein bars, catering to diverse consumer preferences and dietary needs.
Consumer Insights
Nature Valley Cinnamon Brown Sugar Squares receive generally positive reviews from consumers. Many appreciate the soft, chewy texture of these oatmeal squares, finding them more enjoyable than harder granola bars.
The natural ingredients appeal to health-conscious snackers. Whole grain oats provide a nutritious base, while cinnamon and brown sugar offer familiar, comforting flavors.
Portability is a key selling point. The individually wrapped squares are convenient for on-the-go snacking, fitting easily into lunchboxes, gym bags, or hiking packs.
Some consumers report using these squares as a quick breakfast option. The 12g of whole grains per serving contributes to their perceived nutritional value.
Taste preferences vary, but many find the cinnamon-brown sugar combination satisfying without being overly sweet. The light drizzle topping adds a touch of indulgence.
A few concerns arise regarding sugar content. While marketed as a healthier snack option, some consumers note the presence of added sugars.
Packaging receives mixed feedback. The individual wrappers are praised for freshness and portion control, but environmentally-conscious consumers express concerns about excess waste.
Overall, these squares are viewed as a balanced option in the natural snack category, offering a mix of taste, convenience, and perceived nutritional benefits.
