10 Best Whole Grain Cereals of 2024 (Registered Dietitian-Reviewed)
Whole grain cereal is a healthy breakfast food that can provide you with the necessary fiber, protein, and nutrients to keep you feeling full and give you energy for the day. There are many delicious choices; for instance, you might enjoy a hot cereal, a low-sugar option, or one with dried fruit. Whole grain cereals are enjoyed by kids and adults alike; whatever your preference, there's a perfect cereal for you!
To help you with your search, we've created a list containing the 10 best whole-grain cereals available online. If you need some tips to help you choose the best whole grain cereal, scroll down to our buying guide reviewed by a registered dietitian.
Quick List - Top Whole Grain Cereals
Rachel Binkley is a registered dietitian who helps individuals develop healthy habits that fit into their lifestyle. She recommends adequate intakes of all micronutrients to help prevent deficiency as well as chronic conditions that may arise. You can keep up with her recipes, lifestyle, and more on Instagram or her blog, S'more Satisfaction.
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How to Choose a Whole Grain Cereal - Buying Guide
When choosing a whole grain cereal, there are many factors that you should take into consideration, including the types of whole grains, nutritional content, flavor, and texture. Continue reading to learn more about all these important aspects.
Choose Whole Grains That Meet Your Needs
Whole grains have all parts of the seeds intact, including bran, endosperm, and germ. Compared to refined grains that have had all their bran and germ stripped off, whole grains contain a higher amount of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, and iron. They are a great source of protein and carbohydrates, too.
There are many different whole grains. The types that you usually find in cereals include wheat, oat, brown rice, corn, rye, millet, barley, and spelt. These whole grains usually have a slightly sweet, nutty, and earthy flavor.
Some cereals are also made of sprouted grains, such as sprouted barley, sprouted oat, and sprouted millet. These are whole grain seeds that have been soaked in water until they start to germinate. This process breaks down starches and makes sprouted grains easier to digest, as well as more nutrient-dense than regular whole grains.
Note the Amount of Whole Grains per Serving
Some manufacturers might not indicate the whole grains per serving on the packaging, so check the ingredients. Ingredients are listed in order of weight. If a cereal has a type of whole grain listed as the first or second ingredient, you can assume that it can provide you with a significant amount of whole grains.
Another way to see if a cereal contains a significant portion of whole grains is to look for the whole grains stamp created by the Oldways Whole Grains Council. There are three versions of the whole grains stamp: the 100 percent stamp, 50 percent stamp, and basic stamp.
The 100 percent stamp means that all of the cereal's grains are whole grains, and the 50 percent stamp indicates that half of the grains used are whole grains. A cereal that bears the basic stamp must provide at least eight grams of whole grains per serving. You will also find the specific whole grains per serving on the stamp.
Checking the ingredients list is one of the easiest ways to get an overall picture of the food's nutritional value. It can be especially helpful for those who tolerate some whole grains better than others.
I also like to look at the ingredients list for sweeteners. If sugar or something similar is towards the beginning of that list, I might be careful about how much I'm eating at once. It all comes back to how specific foods make you feel and what you want to get out of that meal or snack.
Go for a Flavor That You Will Enjoy
Whole grain cereals come in many different flavors. Simple ones that are only lightly sweetened with sugar are great as a base for you to add your favorite toppings. They go well with all kinds of milk or even yogurt.
If you prefer something flavorful and with added texture, look for cereals that contain extra ingredients. There are many cereals with dried fruit like blueberries or strawberries, or added nuts and seeds.
Many cereals also contain chunks of chocolate or are flavored with cacao powder. Cereals that include chocolate or dried fruits are popular with kids, who are sometimes resistant to try "healthy" foods. They also enjoy cereal flavored with cinnamon and sugar or honey.
It's awesome to spice up your favorite cereal with new flavors and textures. If you want something a little sweeter but don't like the taste of cereals with lots of added sugars, you could try adding some fresh fruit to your bowl. Additional toppings can support satiety and help balance your meal. Nut butters, yogurt, and seeds add protein and healthy fats.
Look at the Nutritional Label for a Healthier Choice
If you're picking whole grain cereals for health reasons, try to balance the flavorings and extras so as not to negate the health benefits of whole grains. High sugar content can be an issue for young kids, those managing weight, and diabetics.
Chocolate chunks and dried fruits can add a significant amount of sugar and calories. Many nutritionists recommend cereal that contains no more than 10 grams of sugar per serving, or for low-sugar diets, five to six grams. Pay attention to the nutrition label, as many whole grain cereals are fortified with vitamins and minerals that contribute to a healthy breakfast, such as vitamin C, iron, and zinc.
Take a look at the protein and fiber content, too. They can keep you feeling full and provide energy throughout the morning. Pick a cereal high in fiber and protein, and you can supplement it with milk or plant-based milk, or other foods for added protein. Ideally, you want to consume at least 15 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber for breakfast.
Decide Between Dense or Airy Textures
There are many types of cereals, including flakes, rounds, squares, puffs, and granolas. Flakes have a thin and crunchy texture, but they do get soggy in milk. Puffed cereals are lighter and airier in texture; they are fun to eat but can easily become mushy in milk.
If you like cereals that are dense and have a great crunch, look for squares or granolas. They don't soak up a lot of milk and will stay crunchy.
If you're looking for something with a softer texture, try hot cereals like cream of wheat or cornmeal mush. Hot cereals are especially good for people who have issues chewing harder textured foods, and they are good for babies who have just started eating solid food. If you like a variety of textures, look for hot cereals with dried fruit for an added chewy bite.
The texture of cereal is all about preference. Something else to consider is serving size. Lighter textured cereals tend to have larger serving sizes than ones that are denser. You will have to eat more of a lighter cereal to get the same amount of nutrients.
If you like eating smaller meals in the morning, a granola may be a more desirable option. You can also start with a lighter cereal as a base and add more substantial toppings. There will be exceptions to this concept, of course.
10 Best Whole Grain Cereals
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Whole Grain Type | Total Sugar | Flavor | Cereal Type | Amount | Gluten-Free | Whole Grain Content | |||||
1 | Cheerios Cheerios｜Honey Nut Cheerios | | A Classic Cereal Sweetened With Honey | Whole Grain Oats | 12 g | Honey Nut | 27.2 oz | 28 g | |||
2 | Cheerios Cheerios｜Original Cheerios | | Gluten-Free Option for Heart Health | Whole Grain Oats | 2 g | Original | 20 oz | 34 g | |||
3 | Post Honey Bunches of Oats® with Almonds | | Crisp, Nutritious, and Heart-Healthy Breakfast Cereal | Whole Grain Oats | 9 g | Almond | Flaked | 18 oz | 16 g | ||
4 | Cheerios Multi Grain Cheerios | | Heart-Healthy and Kid-Friendly Nutrition | Whole Grain Oats | 8 g | Multi Grain | 18 oz | 28 g | |||
5 | Cascadian Farm No Added Sugar Mixed Berry Cereal | | Wholesome Goodness with a Burst of Berry Flavor | Whole Grain Wheat | 6 g | Mised Berry | Flaked | 12.2 oz | 32 g | ||
6 | Post Great Grains Raisins Dates and Pecans | | Delicious and Nutritious for Daily Wellness | Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Oats | 13 g | Raisin, Date, Pecan | Flaked、Granola | 16 oz | 32 g | ||
7 | Chex Peanut Butter Chex™ | | Delicious Peanut Butter Flavor for Breakfast and Beyond | Whole Grain Corn | 9 g | Peanut Butter | Squares | 12.2 oz | 12 g | ||
8 | Post Weetabix Original | | Wholesome Choice for Breakfast | Whole Grain Wheat | 2 g | Whole Grain | Granola | 14 oz | 50 g | ||
9 | Total Breakfast Cereal With Whole Grain Flakes | | Best Cereal Packed With Vitamins and Minerals | Whole Grain Wheat | 5 g | Whole Grain | Flaked | 16 oz | 34 g | ||
10 | Cheerios Pumpkin Spice Cheerios | | Fall Flavor in Every Bite | Whole Grain Oats | 11 g | Pumpkin Spice | 18.5 oz | 22 g | |||
CheeriosCheerios ｜ Honey Nut Cheerios
| Total Sugar | 12 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 28 g |
A Classic Cereal Sweetened With Honey
Honey Nut Cheerios Gluten Free Breakfast Cereal is a popular choice among consumers for its delicious taste and health benefits. Made with whole-grain oats and real honey, this cereal provides a naturally sweet flavor that is both satisfying and nutritious.
It is free from artificial flavors and colors, making it a healthier option for breakfast. Each serving contains essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and vitamin D, which contribute to a balanced diet. Additionally, being gluten-free, it caters to individuals with gluten sensitivities or those looking for gluten-free options.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Honey Nut |
| Cereal Type | |
| Amount | 27.2 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
CheeriosCheerios ｜ Original Cheerios
| Total Sugar | 2 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 34 g |
Gluten-Free Option for Heart Health
Original Cheerios, a staple in many households, offers a gluten-free option that's not only delicious but also heart-healthy. Made from whole-grain oats, each serving provides essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and folic acid. The absence of artificial flavors and colors makes it a wholesome choice for breakfast.
Cheerios are well-known for their simple, wholesome ingredients, and the gluten-free version stays true to this reputation. They are low in sugar, with only one gram per serving, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious consumers.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Original |
| Cereal Type | |
| Amount | 20 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
PostHoney Bunches of Oats® with Almonds
| Total Sugar | 9 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 16 g |
Crisp, Nutritious, and Heart-Healthy Breakfast Cereal
Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds is a deliciously crunchy and wholesome breakfast cereal that’s low in fat and cholesterol-free. With crispy flakes, crunchy oat clusters, and sliced almonds, it offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture to fuel your morning. Packed with 10g of whole grains per serving and 9 essential vitamins and minerals, this cereal helps support heart health while delivering a satisfying, nutritious start to your day.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Almond |
| Cereal Type | Flaked |
| Amount | 18 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
CheeriosMulti Grain Cheerios
| Total Sugar | 8 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 28 g |
Heart-Healthy and Kid-Friendly Nutrition
Cheerios Multi Grain Cereal combines the goodness of whole grains, including whole grain oats, in a gluten-free and cholesterol-free cereal that promotes heart health. With 3 grams of dietary fiber and 100% of the daily value of nine essential vitamins and minerals, this multigrain cereal provides a balanced start to your day. Versatile and nutritious, it’s perfect on its own, as a snack, or mixed into trail mix for kids.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Multi Grain |
| Cereal Type | |
| Amount | 18 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
Cascadian FarmNo Added Sugar Mixed Berry Cereal
| Total Sugar | 6 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 32 g |
Wholesome Goodness with a Burst of Berry Flavor
Cascadian Farm Organic Mixed Berry Cereal offers a nutritious start to your day with a delicious blend of dried blueberries and strawberries. Made with USDA organic and Non-GMO ingredients, this cereal is packed with 32 grams of whole grain per serving. Sweetened naturally with fruit, it contains no added sugar, making it a healthy, guilt-free option for breakfast. Enjoy the natural berry goodness in every bite and feel good about fueling your body with wholesome, organic ingredients.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Wheat |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Mised Berry |
| Cereal Type | Flaked |
| Amount | 12.2 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
PostGreat Grains Raisins Dates and Pecans
| Total Sugar | 13 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 32 g |
Delicious and Nutritious for Daily Wellness
Great Grains Cereal offers an excellent source of fiber and whole grains, making it a nutritious way to begin your day. Each serving provides 32g of whole grains, supporting heart health and overall wellness. With 4g of total fat per serving, this cereal aligns with nutritionists' recommendations for whole grain intake, contributing to a balanced diet rich in plant foods.
Packed in a convenient 16-ounce box, Great Grains Cereal is a wholesome option that supports your daily health goals. Whether enjoyed with milk or as a dry snack, this cereal is a satisfying and heart-healthy choice for any time of the day.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Raisin, Date, Pecan |
| Cereal Type | Flaked、Granola |
| Amount | 16 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
Delicious Peanut Butter Flavor for Breakfast and Beyond
Peanut Butter Chex brings you a gluten-free cereal made with real peanut butter, delivering 12g of whole grain per serving. Free from high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors or flavors, these crunchy corn lattice squares are a sweet and satisfying way to start your day. Ideal for homemade Chex Mix, Muddy Buddies, and other easy-to-make recipes, it’s a versatile snack your kids will love.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Corn |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Peanut Butter |
| Cereal Type | Squares |
| Amount | 12.2 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
PostWeetabix Original
| Total Sugar | 2 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 50 g |
Wholesome Choice for Breakfast
Weetabix Whole Grain Cereal delivers a light and crispy breakfast packed with 100% whole grain wheat. Each biscuit is heart-healthy and a good source of fiber, featuring only 2 grams of sugar per serving. Enjoy it with milk for a classic breakfast or get creative by serving it over yogurt, topped with your favorite fruits or nuts for a personalized touch.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Wheat |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Whole Grain |
| Cereal Type | Granola |
| Amount | 14 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
TotalBreakfast Cereal With Whole Grain Flakes
| Total Sugar | 5 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 34 g |
Best Cereal Packed With Vitamins and Minerals
Pros:
- No artificial flavors or colors
- High in fiber
- Supplies daily need of 11 vitamins and minerals
Cons:
- Some reviews say the cereal tastes a bit bland by itself
Total's wheat flakes breakfast cereal supplies you with 34 grams of whole grains per serving. It also meets your daily requirement of 11 vitamins and minerals to give your day a nutritious start. These crispy flakes also pair well with fruit and nuts.
According to a few reviewers, the taste of this breakfast cereal is a bit bland on its own. On another note, many buyers love that the cereal contains so many vitamins and minerals; it is especially helpful for those with iron deficiency. Another great bonus point for reviewers is the great texture that stays crunchy in milk.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Wheat |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Whole Grain |
| Cereal Type | Flaked |
| Amount | 16 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
CheeriosPumpkin Spice Cheerios
| Total Sugar | 11 g |
|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 22 g |
Fall Flavor in Every Bite
Pumpkin Spice Cheerios offer a seasonal twist to your breakfast with the natural flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, blended with whole grain oats. This gluten-free cereal is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, perfect for both kids and adults. With about 14 servings per box, it’s not just great for breakfast but also a fun addition to trail mixes, cereal bars, or a quick snack straight from the box.
| Whole Grain Type | Whole Grain Oats |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Pumpkin Spice |
| Cereal Type | |
| Amount | 18.5 oz |
| Gluten-Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Rachel also took the time to answer a commonly-asked question on the Internet.
Is whole grain cereal healthy?
"It depends on your definition of healthy!" Rachel says. "I recommend trying to make at least half of your starchy foods whole grains or starchy vegetables. This helps us incorporate more fiber and micronutrients. The fiber helps promote a healthy GI tract and potentially lower cholesterol.
That being said, you should make sure you are incorporating adequate protein and healthy fats in your breakfast as well. More variety in our diet helps us consume more nutrients."
More Healthy Breakfast Options for You
Besides whole-grain cereals, there are many other healthy breakfast options that can give you the energy and nutrients you need for the day ahead. Take a look at our articles for some suggestions!
Top 5 Whole Grain Cereals
No. 1: Cheerios｜Cheerios｜Honey Nut Cheerios
No. 2: Cheerios｜Cheerios｜Original Cheerios
No. 3: Post｜Honey Bunches of Oats® with Almonds
No. 4: Cheerios｜Multi Grain Cheerios
No. 5: Cascadian Farm｜No Added Sugar Mixed Berry Cereal
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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