What is Ready Brek? A smooth start to the day
Ready Brek is a well-known brand of instant porridge oats, made by Weetabix. It was first launched in the UK in 1957 and has long been a breakfast staple, particularly for families. What sets it apart from traditional rolled oats is its distinctive smooth, finely milled texture, achieved through a specific manufacturing process. This rapid cooking time and smooth consistency make it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and easy hot breakfast, but this convenience often raises questions about its health credentials.
Unpacking the nutrition: Is Ready Brek really junk food?
To determine if a food can be considered 'junk food,' it is helpful to look at its nutritional composition. Junk food is typically defined as processed food with high levels of sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats, and low nutritional value. Here's how the original version of Ready Brek measures up:
The Positives:
- Fortified Vitamins and Minerals: A key feature of Ready Brek is its nutritional fortification. It is rich in calcium for healthy bones and teeth, and contains iron, niacin, and various B vitamins.
- No Added Sugar or Salt: The original version of Ready Brek contains no added sugar or salt, relying on the naturally occurring sugars found in the oats. This is a major plus compared to many other cereals on the market that are laden with sweeteners.
- High Oat Fibre: It provides a good source of oat fibre, which is beneficial for healthy digestion. A 30g serving contributes towards the recommended daily fibre intake.
- Wholegrain Goodness: It is made with 100% wholegrain oats.
The Caveats:
- Highly Processed: The smooth texture is a result of extensive milling and processing. This makes the oats quicker to digest than less-processed varieties, potentially leading to a faster blood sugar response.
- Low Protein: While it contains some protein, its protein content is relatively low compared to alternatives like eggs or Greek yogurt. To make it more satiating, protein-rich toppings are recommended.
- Varies by Flavour: The nutritional profile mentioned above applies to the original flavour. Other flavoured varieties, such as chocolate or honey, may contain added sugars and should be checked carefully.
The verdict: A far cry from junk
Considering its low added sugar and salt content and its fortification with essential vitamins and minerals, the original Ready Brek cannot accurately be classed as junk food. It is a nutritious and convenient breakfast option, especially when compared to heavily sugared cereals. However, its higher level of processing means it doesn't offer the sustained energy release of traditional, coarser oats.
Comparison of Ready Brek vs. other breakfast choices
To put Ready Brek's nutritional value in context, let's compare it to other common breakfast options.
| Feature | Ready Brek (Original) | Traditional Rolled Oats | High-Sugar Cereal (e.g., Frosted Flakes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Level | Highly processed (finely milled) | Minimally processed (rolled) | Highly processed |
| Added Sugar | No added sugar | No added sugar | High added sugar content |
| Fibre Content | High in oat fibre | High in oat fibre | Lower fibre content |
| Cooking Time | Very fast (90 seconds) | Longer (approx. 5-10 mins) | Instant/No cooking needed |
| Nutrient Fortification | Yes (calcium, D, B vitamins, iron) | No (naturally occurring nutrients only) | Often fortified with synthetic vitamins |
| Glycemic Impact | Quicker blood sugar response | Slower, more sustained energy release | Fast blood sugar spike |
How to create a healthy meal with Ready Brek
The nutritional value of Ready Brek can be significantly enhanced by the way you prepare and serve it. While it is a good foundation, adding certain toppings can transform it into a well-rounded meal.
Boosting the nutrition:
- Add Fresh Fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or chopped apples can add natural sweetness, vitamins, and extra fibre.
- Incorporate Healthy Fats: A sprinkle of chia seeds, flax seeds, or nuts adds healthy fats, fibre, and protein.
- Mix in Protein: To increase the protein content and staying power, stir in a spoonful of nut butter or serve with a side of Greek yogurt.
- Dairy Choice: Prepare it with milk for added protein and calcium, or use a fortified plant-based milk alternative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, calling Ready Brek 'junk food' is a mischaracterization. The original variety, with no added sugar or salt and fortified with vitamins and minerals, is a nutritionally sound breakfast option. However, it is a more processed product than traditional rolled or steel-cut oats, meaning it may not offer the same slow-release energy benefits. The ultimate healthiness of a bowl of Ready Brek depends on the additions. By choosing the original version and pairing it with healthy toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds, you can create a wholesome and satisfying breakfast. It is certainly a more beneficial choice than many highly sweetened cereals on the market.
For more information on healthy breakfast choices, you can explore resources on the NHS website.
