What is Total Cereal? A Fortified Breakfast Staple
Total cereal, a product from General Mills, is a ready-to-eat breakfast cereal primarily made from whole-grain wheat flakes. The primary selling point of Total is its extensive fortification, promising a high percentage of the daily recommended intake for many key vitamins and minerals in a single serving. While the base ingredients provide some natural nutrients, the added fortification is what sets this cereal apart as a dietary supplement source.
The Fundamental Ingredients: Base Elements and Preservatives
The basic makeup of Total cereal is quite simple, centered on whole grains. The core ingredients are:
- Whole-grain wheat
- Sugar
- Honey
- Salt
- Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) added to preserve freshness
This simple foundation is what carries the extensive list of added nutrients. The whole-grain wheat provides natural dietary fiber, carbohydrates, and some protein, but the rest of the nutritional profile comes from the intentional addition of vitamins and minerals.
The Fortified Elements: A Deep Dive into Vitamins and Minerals
The most notable feature of Total cereal is the array of added nutrients. Each serving is fortified to contain 100% of the daily value of 11 specific vitamins and minerals, along with other key elements.
Vitamins
- Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate): An essential antioxidant that supports healthy teeth and gums and aids in wound healing.
- Vitamin E (Acetate & Mixed Tocopherols): Acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect healthy body cells from oxidative damage.
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin Mononitrate): A B vitamin that promotes normal energy metabolism.
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Another B vitamin crucial for converting food into energy.
- Niacin (Niacinamide): Essential for converting nutrients into usable energy.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride): Aids in the digestion of protein.
- Folic Acid: Necessary for the formation of blood cells.
- Vitamin B12: Essential for proper cell function throughout the body.
- Pantothenic Acid (Calcium Pantothenate): Helps the body release energy from carbohydrates.
- Vitamin A (Palmitate): Supports vision and immune function.
- Vitamin D3: Important for bone health and calcium absorption.
Minerals
- Iron: Helps build red blood cells and carries oxygen throughout the body.
- Zinc: Supports immune function and proper healing of wounds.
- Calcium: Added to support bone health.
- Magnesium: Although not one of the 100% DV nutrients, it is present due to the whole grain content.
- Phosphorus: Another mineral found in the cereal that contributes to overall health.
Comparison of Fortified and Unfortified Cereals
To understand the value of Total's fortification, it's helpful to compare its nutritional profile to that of a typical, less-fortified whole-grain cereal. For this example, we will compare a serving of Total to a generic whole-grain flake cereal of a similar type, using average nutritional data.
| Nutrient | Total Cereal (Approx. 1 cup) | Generic Whole-Grain Flake Cereal (Approx. 1 cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | 100% DV (18 mg) | ~60% DV (11 mg) |
| Zinc | 100% DV | ~5% DV (1 mg) |
| Calcium | 2% DV (unfortified) | ~5% DV (unfortified) |
| Vitamin C | 100% DV | ~0% DV |
| Vitamin B12 | 100% DV | ~27% DV |
| Folic Acid | 100% DV | ~2% DV |
| Dietary Fiber | 14% DV | 14% DV |
Note: DV percentages can vary slightly based on serving size. Fortified cereals can have significantly higher levels of specific vitamins and minerals than their unfortified counterparts.
How the Elements in Total Cereal Impact Your Diet
The high level of fortification in Total makes it more than just a source of carbohydrates; it functions like a multivitamin in a bowl. For individuals with specific dietary needs, such as those with iron-deficiency anemia or individuals looking to increase their B vitamin intake, this can be a very convenient option. However, some have noted concerns about the sugar content, which is higher than what is found in natural whole grains. It is important to remember that while the fortification is high, it is still a processed food. Nutritionists often advise consuming a variety of whole, unprocessed foods to meet nutrient requirements, but fortified cereals can act as a reliable fallback or supplement. For the average consumer, Total can be a simple way to ensure a baseline of specific nutrients is met daily without needing additional supplements.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the elements that are in Total Cereal extend well beyond the simple whole-grain base, offering a powerful boost of 11 essential vitamins and minerals. The ingredients list features a robust blend of B vitamins, antioxidants like vitamin C and E, and critical minerals such as iron and zinc. While the sugar content is a consideration for some, the cereal's primary function as a highly fortified breakfast option makes it a convenient way for many people to jump-start their daily nutrient intake. When balanced with a diet of other healthy foods, Total provides a quick and accessible source of key nutritional elements that might otherwise be missing from a typical morning meal.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes.
