The Power of the Bean Blend: Love Grown's Core Ingredients
Love Grown cereal differentiates itself with a primary base that is not a grain like corn or wheat, but a combination of legumes and rice. This foundation is a significant reason for its higher protein and fiber content compared to many traditional cereals. The core ingredients shared across many of its varieties include a proprietary 'Bean Blend' and brown rice flour, creating the unique texture and nutritional profile.
The Foundational Bean Blend
The Bean Blend is a mix of three key legumes:
- Navy Beans: These small, white beans are packed with fiber and protein.
- Lentils: Known for their high nutritional value, lentils contribute to the cereal's protein content.
- Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): Offering a nutty flavor and creamy texture, garbanzo beans round out the base.
Brown Rice Flour
Instead of more common flour bases, Love Grown uses brown rice flour, which makes the cereal a certified gluten-free product. This ingredient provides a crisp texture while catering to individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Flavor Variations: What Gives Each Cereal its Taste?
While the bean and rice base remains consistent, Love Grown's various cereal flavors use additional ingredients to achieve their distinct profiles. These additions are sourced with a commitment to minimal processing and avoiding artificial additives.
Ingredients in Love Grown Flavored Cereals
- Original Power O's: This version has the simplest ingredient list, containing only the bean blend, brown rice flour, salt, and vitamin E to maintain freshness. It is a low-sugar option, according to the Environmental Working Group.
- Chocolate Power O's/Comet Crispies: To create the rich chocolate taste, these cereals add cane sugar, cocoa, high oleic sunflower oil, and natural chocolate and vanilla flavors. Sunflower lecithin is also included as an emulsifier.
- Cinnamon Power O's/Lion Loops: A warm, spiced flavor is achieved by incorporating cane sugar, cinnamon, high oleic sunflower oil, and sunflower lecithin into the base mix.
- Truly Fruity Sea Stars: This child-friendly cereal uses vegetable juice from radish and purple sweet potato for natural color, along with citric acid, turmeric, and paprika for a fruity flavor profile.
Comparison of Love Grown Cereal Ingredients
To better understand the variations, the following table compares the main ingredients across different Love Grown cereal types. The core bean blend and brown rice flour are standard in all listed varieties.
| Ingredient Category | Original Power O's | Chocolate Power O's | Cinnamon Power O's | Truly Fruity Sea Stars |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | None added | Cane Sugar | Cane Sugar | Cane Sugar |
| Flavoring | N/A | Cocoa, Natural Flavor | Cinnamon | Natural Flavor, Citric Acid |
| Oil | N/A | High Oleic Sunflower Oil | High Oleic Sunflower Oil | N/A |
| Emulsifier | N/A | Sunflower Lecithin | Sunflower Lecithin | Sunflower Lecithin |
| Coloring | N/A | N/A | N/A | Vegetable Juice (Radish, Purple Sweet Potato), Turmeric, Paprika |
Nutritional and Health Considerations
Love Grown's commitment to clean, plant-based ingredients has earned it certifications, such as the Clean Label Project. The use of beans as a primary ingredient offers notable health benefits.
Protein and Fiber Boost
By leveraging legumes, the cereal provides a significant amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. This can help promote satiety and support digestive health, setting it apart from traditional cereals that may be lower in these nutrients.
No Artificial Additives
Love Grown cereals are made without artificial colors, flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup. The brand opts for natural alternatives, such as vegetable juices for coloring in its Truly Fruity variant.
Allergen Information
While certified gluten-free, the company processes its products in facilities that may also handle common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, and tree nuts. Individuals with severe allergies should always check the most recent packaging and be aware of potential cross-contamination.
Conclusion: A Breakfast Revolution Rooted in Beans
Love Grown cereal stands out in the crowded breakfast aisle by focusing on a simple yet innovative core recipe. The foundational bean blend of navy beans, lentils, and garbanzo beans, combined with brown rice flour, provides a nutritious, gluten-free, and vegan alternative to conventional cereals. With thoughtful additions for flavor, such as natural cocoa or vegetable-based coloring, each variety offers a different experience while maintaining the brand's commitment to clean, plant-powered ingredients. As the market for health-conscious and transparently-produced foods continues to grow, Love Grown's ingredient-centric approach offers a clear choice for consumers seeking a nutritious start to their day. For more details on the company's ethos, you can explore their profile on the Clean Label Project website.
