Study Finds Kids’ Cereals Less Healthy Than Ever

Your favorite cereals are probably less good for you than you think

Your favorite cereals are probably less good for you than you think ©Image Credit: Unsplash / John Matychuk
Your favorite cereals are probably less good for you than you think ©Image Credit: Unsplash / John Matychuk

The seemingly harmless morning bowl of cereal is now part of a worrying trend indicating many American cereals are unhealthy.

A new study published in JAMA Network Open finds that newly released cereals in the U.S. have become less healthy over the last decade. Between 2010 and 2023, researchers found that sugar, fat, and sodium content all increased in American cereals, while protein and fiber dropped.

The trend points to a shift in priorities. “These trends suggest a potential prioritization of taste over nutritional quality in product development,” the study noted. That shift, researchers warn, could have long-term effects, especially for children. One serving of some kids’ cereals exceeds 45% of the daily recommended sugar limit.

The study focused only on new cereals introduced during the 13-year span, not the entire market. But it still adds to growing concern about how brands are formulating food.

Industry experts suggest this troubling pattern reflects intense market competition, where manufacturers chase immediate consumer appeal over long-term health benefits. Nutritionists recommend that parents carefully examine cereal labels, looking for options with less than 6 grams of sugar per serving and at least 3 grams of fiber.

Some advocates are calling for stricter FDA regulations on breakfast cereals marketed to children, arguing that current labeling standards don’t adequately protect young consumers from excessive sugar intake during crucial developmental years.

This study is coming to light at the same time that the State of texas is taking on General Mills for its use of artificial dyes in children’s cereals.