Puffins cereal, known for its distinct crunchy, pillow-shaped pieces, has been a popular breakfast choice for many years. Produced by Barbara's Bakery, which is part of Post Consumer Brands, the cereal is marketed as a wholesome option with non-GMO ingredients. While the exact ingredient list can vary by flavor, a core set of components provides the foundation for all Puffins cereals, with specific additions creating the different varieties.
Core Ingredients Across All Puffins Cereal
Most Puffins cereals share a common base of non-GMO grains and natural sweeteners. This foundation is what gives the cereal its consistent crunchy texture and subtle sweetness.
- Corn Flour: A primary base ingredient, often degermed yellow corn meal, that provides the cereal's light and airy structure.
- Whole Grain Oat Flour: Added alongside corn flour to contribute whole grain goodness and a hearty texture.
- Cane Sugar: A natural sweetener used to provide a pleasant, non-overpowering sweetness.
- Oat Fiber and/or Corn Bran: These added fibers help boost the overall fiber content, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
- Unsulfured Molasses: Provides a darker, richer color and a deeper, more complex sweetness compared to pure cane sugar.
- Sea Salt: Used to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Baking Soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help create the cereal's unique puffy shape.
- Tocopherols (Vitamin E): Included as an antioxidant to help maintain freshness.
Ingredients by Flavor: A Detailed Breakdown
Beyond the core ingredients, each flavor has unique additions. It's important to check the specific product's packaging for the most accurate list, as recipes can change.
- Original Puffins: Features the standard list of corn flour, whole grain oat flour, cane sugar, oat fiber, corn bran, unsulfured molasses, sea salt, baking soda, and tocopherols.
- Cinnamon Puffins: Adds real cinnamon and natural flavor to the base mixture for a spicy-sweet taste.
- Peanut Butter Puffins: Incorporates real peanut butter for a nutty flavor, and includes rice flour and sunflower oil in its blend.
- Multigrain Puffins (Gluten-Free): Specifically formulated to be gluten-free, this version includes oats, corn, and rice grains.
- Peanut Butter & Chocolate Puffins: Combines the peanut butter base with chocolate flavorings for a richer dessert-like taste.
- Honey Rice Puffins (Gluten-Free): Another gluten-free option, this version features rice and honey for a sweeter, lighter puff.
Ingredient Comparison: Original vs. Cinnamon Puffins
| Ingredient | Original Puffins | Cinnamon Puffins |
|---|---|---|
| Corn Flour | Yes | Yes |
| Whole Grain Oat Flour | Yes | Yes |
| Cane Sugar | Yes | Yes |
| Oat Fiber | Yes | Yes |
| Corn Bran | Yes | Yes |
| Unsulfured Molasses | Yes | Yes |
| Cinnamon | No | Yes |
| Natural Flavor | No | Yes |
| Vitamin C | Yes (as ascorbic acid) | Yes (as ascorbic acid) |
| Tocopherols (Antioxidants) | Yes | Yes |
Understanding Certifications and Allergen Information
Barbara's takes steps to accommodate various dietary needs, but consumers should be aware of potential allergens, particularly regarding cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities.
Non-GMO Project Verified
Many Puffins varieties are Non-GMO Project Verified, meaning they do not contain genetically engineered ingredients.
Vegan and Kosher
Most flavors are vegan and kosher, suitable for those following plant-based or kosher diets.
Gluten-Free vs. Wheat-Free
While some flavors (like Multigrain and Honey Rice) are specifically certified gluten-free, others like the Original, Cinnamon, and Peanut Butter are only wheat-free. This is an important distinction for those with celiac disease, as the latter may still be produced in facilities that process wheat, leading to potential cross-contamination. Always check the packaging for the official 'gluten-free' certification if you have a serious sensitivity.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in Puffins cereal are built on a foundation of simple, wholesome grains like corn and oats, along with natural sweeteners and fiber. This base is then customized with flavor-specific additions like real peanut butter or cinnamon. By understanding the ingredient differences between flavors and paying close attention to certifications, consumers can make informed choices based on their dietary preferences and needs. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive ingredient information, it is always best to check the product's packaging or the manufacturer's website, such as Post Consumer Brands, the distributor of Barbara's products.
