A Look at the Core Ingredients
While Futurelife offers several distinct Granola Crunch variants, a foundation of core components is used across most of their product line. The clusters are typically formed from a mix of baked grains and coated with a layer of the brand's proprietary Smart food™.
Primary Grains and Fibres
- Rolled Oats: As a central ingredient, rolled oats provide a key source of dietary fibre and beta-glucan. They contribute to the granola's energy content and texture.
- SmartMaize™: This is a key component of the Futurelife Smart food™ coating and is made from whole maize flour using a patented cooking process. SmartMaize™ retains more nutritional value and fibre than regular maize.
- Crispy Puffed Rice: Used to add a light, crunchy texture to the clusters.
- Soybean Flour/Isolate: A source of plant-based protein that contains all nine essential amino acids.
- Inulin: A prebiotic fibre often included to assist with optimal gut health and digestion by providing food for good bacteria.
Binders and Sweeteners
- Sucrose: A standard sugar, often used in variants like the Original Granola Crunch.
- Honey: Used in the Original and Boost variants to bind the clusters and add natural sweetness.
- Maltitol: A sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in the Zero variant to provide sweetness with zero added cane sugar.
- Sucralose: A non-nutritive, zero-calorie sweetener also used in the Zero range.
- Vegetable Fat/Oil: Ingredients such as palm oil or sunflower seed oil are used in the formulation.
Functional Additions
- Moducare®: This is an immune supplement made from a patented blend of natural plant sterols and sterolins, which is a signature addition to many Futurelife products.
- Probiotics: In some variants, such as Zero and Berries & Fruit, probiotics like Bacillus Coagulans are included to promote gut health.
- Minerals: Depending on the variant, specific minerals like iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc are added for fortification.
Ingredient Breakdown by Granola Crunch Variant
Original (Boost)
This classic variant is fortified with minerals like iron and magnesium. Its primary ingredients include wholesome rolled oats, crispy puffed rice, and soybean flour, all bound with real honey for a naturally sweet flavour profile. It is coated in the nutritious Futurelife Smart food™ mix.
Zero (Zero Added Cane Sugar)
Created for those looking to reduce sugar intake, this version is sweetened using a combination of maltitol and sucralose instead of cane sugar. The Zero variant relies on whole grain rolled oats, desiccated coconut, and barley flakes as its base. It is also high in dietary fibre, and contains probiotics and the prebiotic inulin for digestive support.
Nut & Seed Focus
For a boost of healthy fats and texture, this variant incorporates real nuts and seeds into the granola clusters. It is formulated with a mix of grains and coated in the Smart food™ mix, providing a source of energy, fibre, and minerals, including iodine, iron, and zinc. Allergens will include tree nuts and other ingredients found in the base formula.
Chocolate (Renew)
Designed for chocolate lovers, this variant incorporates real cocoa for its rich flavour. It maintains the core grain base and is coated in Smart food™ while also being fortified with minerals like copper, selenium, and zinc.
Berries & Fruit (Vitality)
This granola bursts with the flavour of real berries and fruit pieces. It contains the standard blend of grains and a probiotic powder to support gut health. The addition of dried fruits adds natural sweetness and chewiness to the crunchy clusters.
Granola Crunch Product Comparison
| Feature | Original (Boost) | Zero | Nut & Seed Focus | Chocolate (Renew) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | Honey, Sucrose | Maltitol, Sucralose (No added cane sugar) | Honey, Sucrose | Cocoa, Honey, Sucrose |
| Base Grains | Rolled Oats, Rice, Soy | Rolled Oats, Barley, Coconut | Rolled Oats, Rice, Soy, Barley | Rolled Oats, Rice, Soy |
| Key Additions | Honey, Iron, Magnesium | Desiccated Coconut, Inulin, Probiotics | Nuts, Seeds, Iodine, Zinc | Cocoa, Copper, Selenium, Zinc |
| Unique Benefit | Energy boost | Low Glycaemic Index (GI) | Added nuts and seeds for focus | Rich chocolate flavour |
| Allergens | Gluten, Soy, Cow's Milk | Gluten, Soy, Cow's Milk, Tree Nuts | Gluten, Soy, Cow's Milk, Tree Nuts | Gluten, Soy, Cow's Milk, Tree Nuts |
Potential Allergens
Futurelife clearly labels the allergens present in its granola products. It is important for consumers to review the packaging of the specific variant they intend to purchase, as ingredients can differ. Common allergens across the range include:
- Gluten: Primarily from oats, barley, and wheat used in some recipes or manufacturing facilities.
- Soy: Included as soybean flour or soy isolate for protein.
- Cow's Milk: Present in the form of sodium caseinate or skimmed milk powder in some coatings.
- Tree Nuts and Peanuts: Many variants are manufactured in facilities that also handle these allergens, so cross-contamination is possible.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Granola Choice
Futurelife's granola range offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs. The core ingredients typically feature a blend of wholesome grains like oats, rice, and soy, fortified with the unique Smart food™ coating and functional additions such as Moducare®, probiotics, and extra minerals. For those watching their sugar intake, the Zero variant is an excellent choice, while others might prefer the classic sweetness of the Original, the nutty crunch of the Focus, or the flavour of the Chocolate or Berries & Fruit varieties.
When choosing a product, it is crucial to read the specific packaging to confirm the exact ingredients and allergen information. This will help you select the right Future Life granola that aligns with your nutritional goals and flavour preferences.
For more detailed product specifications and the full list of ingredients for each variant, visit the official Futurelife website at futurelife.co.za.
