The Truth About Ready Brek's Sugar Content
For many, Ready Brek is a classic part of a winter morning, but a common question lingers: does this 'super smooth' porridge contain a high level of sugar? The straight answer is no—at least for the original variety. The Ready Brek Original recipe explicitly states it is made with no added sugar or salt. The minimal sugar content listed on the nutritional label comes from the naturally occurring sugars found within the wholegrain oats and oat flour used in the product. Consumers who perceive Ready Brek as sweet may be recalling the addition of honey, syrup, or other sugary toppings, or mistakenly associating it with the higher sugar levels found in many other breakfast cereals.
Nutritional Breakdown: What's Really in Your Bowl
Looking closely at the nutritional information confirms that a plain bowl of Ready Brek is a very low-sugar choice. A standard 30g serving, prepared with just water, has virtually 0g of sugar. The sugar content increases when you add milk, as milk contains its own naturally occurring sugars (lactose). For instance, a 30g serving prepared with 150ml of semi-skimmed milk contains around 7.5g of sugars, which is still considered low compared to many other cereals. Beyond its low sugar profile, Ready Brek is fortified with a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin D, iron, and various B vitamins, making it a nutrient-dense option.
Ready Brek Sugar Content vs. Other Cereals
To put Ready Brek's sugar content into perspective, a comparison with other popular breakfast options is useful. Many processed breakfast cereals contain significantly higher amounts of added sugar. The following table highlights the difference in sugar content per 100g based on an analysis by OneLife Suffolk:
| Cereal | Sugar Content (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Ready Brek Original | 1.0g |
| Nestle Shredded Wheat | 0.7g |
| Weetabix | 4.4g |
| Kellogg's Cornflakes | 8g |
| Kellogg's Rice Krispies | 10g |
| Kellogg's Crunchy Nut | 35g |
| Quaker Oat So Simple Golden Syrup Porridge | 29.5g |
As the table clearly demonstrates, Ready Brek is one of the lowest-sugar cereals available, comparable to plain options like Shredded Wheat. This makes it an excellent foundation for a healthy breakfast, allowing you to control the sweetness yourself rather than relying on pre-packaged high-sugar varieties.
The Difference Between Ready Brek and Other Porridge Oats
While nutritionally similar to standard porridge oats, Ready Brek offers a key difference in its texture and preparation time. It is made from finely milled oats, which results in a smoother, less lumpy consistency than traditional rolled oats. This quickens the cooking process, allowing a hot breakfast to be ready in as little as 90 seconds in the microwave. The finer milling does not, however, compromise its wholegrain status or nutritional benefits. It remains a high-fibre, vitamin-rich food source.
How to Keep Your Ready Brek Low-Sugar
Since the original product contains no added sugar, the key to a truly low-sugar meal lies in your choice of toppings. Here are some low-sugar and healthy ways to add flavour:
- Fresh Fruit: Add sliced bananas, berries, or apples for natural sweetness and extra vitamins. Berries, in particular, are low in sugar and high in antioxidants.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon provides warmth and flavour without any sugar.
- Nut Butter: A spoonful of sugar-free peanut or almond butter adds protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full longer.
- Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds can add crunch and nutritional value.
- Unsweetened Yogurt: Stir in a dollop of unsweetened Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and protein boost.
By using these toppings, you can create a delicious and satisfying breakfast that is naturally low in sugar and packed with nutrients.
Ready Brek: A Healthy Breakfast Option?
Ready Brek is a highly nutritious breakfast option, especially when compared to many other cereals on the market. Its wholegrain oats provide a great source of fibre, which is beneficial for digestion and can help lower cholesterol. The added calcium and vitamin D are crucial for strong bones and teeth, and the iron content helps prevent fatigue. As part of a balanced diet, a bowl of Ready Brek is an excellent way to start the day with a nourishing and filling meal, providing sustained energy without the sugar crash associated with high-sugar breakfast options.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
In conclusion, for those asking 'is there a lot of sugar in Ready brek?', the answer for the original variety is a resounding no. It is a no-added-sugar product, relying only on the minimal, naturally occurring sugars from the wholegrain oats. This makes it a great, healthy choice, particularly when customized with low-sugar toppings. Its high fibre content and fortification with essential vitamins and minerals position it as a superior option compared to many sugary breakfast alternatives. For a healthy and warm start to your day, Ready Brek provides a blank canvas for a nutritious and tasty meal. It’s up to the consumer to keep it low-sugar by choosing their additions wisely.
