The Nutritional Breakdown of Ready Brek
Ready Brek Original is primarily composed of wholegrain rolled oats (60%) and wholegrain oat flour (38%), making it a wholegrain-based cereal. The fine milling of the oats is what gives it its characteristic 'super smooth' texture and quick cooking time. While this processing differentiates it from traditional porridge, its nutritional foundation remains solid. A typical 30g serving, prepared with semi-skimmed milk, provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and is relatively low in fat.
One of the key selling points for Ready Brek is its fortification. The cereal is enriched with a number of essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health. These include:
- Calcium: Abundant in Ready Brek, with one serving providing a significant portion of the recommended daily intake. Calcium is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
- Vitamin D: Often referred to as the 'sunshine vitamin', this is vital for the normal function of the immune system.
- Iron: An important mineral for oxygen transport and energy production in the body.
- B Vitamins: The cereal is fortified with Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12, which play key roles in energy metabolism and nervous system function.
The Original version of Ready Brek notably contains no added sugar or salt, relying on the naturally occurring sugars within the oats. However, it is essential to check the nutritional information for other flavoured varieties, which may have added sugars.
Ready Brek vs. Traditional Porridge Oats: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The primary differences between Ready Brek and traditional rolled oats lie in their processing, texture, and nutritional content. This table provides a clear comparison:
| Feature | Ready Brek (Original) | Traditional Rolled Oats |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Highly milled and refined for a smooth texture, resulting in a powdered form. | Minimally processed, with whole oats either rolled or steel-cut, retaining more of their original structure. |
| Glycemic Index (GI) | Moderate-to-high due to finer milling, which breaks down faster in the body and can cause a quicker rise in blood sugar. | Lower GI, providing a slower, more sustained energy release as the body takes longer to digest the larger oat particles. |
| Nutritional Fortification | Enriched with added vitamins (D, B-vitamins) and minerals (Calcium, Iron). | Contains naturally occurring vitamins and minerals; not typically fortified. |
| Fibre Content (Beta-Glucan) | Contains oat fibre (beta-glucan), which aids digestion and can help lower cholesterol. | Also rich in beta-glucan and other fibres, offering similar benefits. |
| Cooking Time | Very quick, often ready in 90 seconds in a microwave. | Typically takes longer to cook, around 5-10 minutes, depending on the type. |
| Added Sugar/Salt | None in the Original version, but contains naturally occurring sugars. | Contains no added sugar or salt, being 100% oats. |
Benefits of a Ready Brek Breakfast
Ready Brek offers several advantages, especially for those seeking a quick and nutrient-dense meal:
- Convenience: Its rapid cooking time makes it a perfect option for busy mornings, ensuring a wholesome breakfast is always within reach.
- Accessibility of Nutrients: The fortification ensures that a significant dose of key vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium is delivered in a single bowl, which can be particularly beneficial for children and those with dietary restrictions.
- Cholesterol Management: The presence of oat beta-glucan fibre is clinically shown to help reduce blood cholesterol levels, a risk factor for heart disease.
- Digestive Health: The oat fibre contributes to increased faecal bulk, supporting healthy digestion and regularity.
- Suitable for Weaning: The smooth texture and fortification make it a practical and safe option for babies over six months, providing essential iron during the weaning process.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Despite its benefits, there are some aspects to consider when evaluating Ready Brek:
- Higher Glycemic Index: The highly processed nature leads to a higher GI compared to chunkier, less-refined oats. This can result in a quicker spike in blood sugar, potentially leading to less sustained energy and feeling hungry sooner.
- Missing Texture: For some, the super-smooth texture is a drawback. The chewier texture of traditional porridge provides a different sensory experience and can contribute to a greater feeling of fullness.
- Cross-Contamination: While a good source of nutrients, some packs may carry warnings about potential cross-contamination with allergens like milk, wheat, and barley, which is important for individuals with severe allergies.
How to Boost the Healthiness of Your Ready Brek
The key to maximizing the health benefits of Ready Brek lies in how you prepare it and what you add. Here are some tips:
- Choose Healthy Milk: Prepare with semi-skimmed milk or a fortified plant-based milk alternative for a creamier texture and extra nutrients.
- Add Natural Sweetness: Avoid adding sugar, syrups, or honey (especially for babies under one). Instead, use mashed banana, berries, or other fresh fruit for natural sweetness and fibre.
- Boost the Fibre: Mix in chia seeds, ground flaxseed, or a handful of berries for an extra fibre kick that will aid digestion and prolong feelings of fullness.
- Increase Protein and Healthy Fats: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter or sprinkle with chopped nuts and seeds for an extra boost of protein and healthy fats.
- Get Creative: Incorporate Ready Brek into smoothies with a mix of fruits and vegetables for a nutrient-packed, on-the-go breakfast.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
So, is Ready Brek actually healthy? The answer is a qualified yes. As a breakfast food, the Original variety is a solid, nutrient-rich option, particularly for children and busy adults. Its fortification with essential vitamins and minerals, combined with no added sugar or salt, makes it a superior choice to many other sugary breakfast cereals. However, it is not without its trade-offs. The higher level of processing means a higher glycemic index than traditional, less-milled porridge oats, which can influence energy release and satiety. Ultimately, the overall healthiness of your Ready Brek meal is greatly influenced by the toppings you choose. For a truly wholesome start to the day, opt for natural additions like fruit, nuts, and seeds. Read more about the benefits of a nutritious breakfast on Healthline.com.
