Which cereals are not ultra-processed?

Written By Kat Myers

Deliciously Ella, Sainsbury’s Granola So Organic, Tesco Organic Oats, Rude Health and Dorset Cereals all made our list of natural supermarket cereals

When it comes to ultra-processed food, breakfast cereal is one of the first foods that comes to mind– hoops, pops or clusters promising ‘vitamins’ and ‘whole grain’ but are often full of artificial additives and flavourings.

So, which cereals are not ultra-processed? We’ve scoured the supermarket shelves to find you 6 minimally processed, great-tasting breakfast cereals so you can start your day right, without the added ultra-processed ingredients.

Natural Breakfast Cereals: At A Glance

Deliciously Ella Nutty Granola

If you’re a fan of crunchy, nutty cereals, Deliciously Ella Nutty Granola is a must-try. Created by the well-known plant-based blogger Ella Woodward, this granola is packed with high-quality plant-based protein and healthy fats.

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains rapeseed oil

  • Cost per bowl: £0.48

  • High in plant protein & healthy fats

  • Fibre: 6.1g per serving

  • Protein: 6g per serving

  • Sugar: 3.4 per serving

Dorset Cereals Simply Delicious Muesli

One of the more well-known 'healthy cereal’ brands on this list, the Dorset Cereal Simply Delicious Muesli is a fantastic option for those who prefer a simple flavour. It’s one of the most natural choices in their range, free from highly processed 'seed oils.'

This muesli is a tasty mix of whole grains and nuts, making it a perfect way to start your morning with a boost of whole food energy and fibre.

  • Non ultra-processed

  • Cost per bowl: £0.23

  • A low-calorie option: just 166 calories per serving.

  • Fibre: 4g per serving

  • Protein 4.3g per serving

  • Sugar: 6.6g per serving 

Note: Some products in the Dorset Cereals range contain preservatives and flavourings – although these might be from ‘natural’ sources, they are often highly processed - always check the ingredients before you buy!

Supermarket Branded Oats

Most supermarket-branded 'big bag' oats are completely natural, low in sugar and high in fibre & protein. Look for 'whole rolled' or 'rolled' oats on the packet to ensure you're getting the real deal.

Rolled oats, such as these Tesco Organic Oats are produced by simply removing the oat kernel and flattening the oat. This means they keep a lot of their fibre, which is great for your gut. Unlike lots of instant or ‘quick’ oats, rolled oats don’t tend to have any artificial ingredients added to them. Always check the ingredients list to make sure there’s no hidden processed ingredients in there, like flavourings, syrups or extracts.  

  • Non ultra-processed

  • Cost per bowl: £0.15*

  • Cheapest, lowest sugar option: just 15p per serving*

  • Fibre: 5g per serving*

  • Protein: 6.1g per serving*

  • Sugar: 0.5g per serving*

Oats are very versatile. Top them with peanut butter for a dose of healthy fat or add your favourite fresh fruit for a naturally sweet kick.

*Nutritional and price information based on Tesco Organic Oats 750G.

Rude Health Chocolate Crunch Granola

Who says healthy eating can’t include a bit of indulgence? With added cocoa powder in every mouthful, Rude Health’s Chocolate Crunch Granola is one for the chocolate lovers.

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains sunflower oil

  • Cost per bowl: £0.42

  • Fibre: 3.2g per serving

  • Protein: 4.2g per serving

  • Sugar: 5.8g per serving

Sainsbury’s So Organic Granola

An affordable granola option at just 16p per bowl, Sainsbury’s So Organic Granola is a crunchy, sweet treat that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. A blend of sultanas and honey (without any added preservatives), this is a great choice if you like a fruity breakfast cereal.

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains rapeseed oil

  • Cost per bowl: £0.16

  • Sweetened with honey and sultanas: higher in sugar at 9.9g per bowl

  • Fibre: 2.9g per serving

  • Protein: 4.3g per serving

  • Sugar: 9.9g per serving

Kellogg’s Weetabix

Kellogg’s Weetabix, described on Tesco’s website as being "packed with 100% wholegrain goodness," is a popular choice for a healthy breakfast. But is Weetabix ultra-processed?

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains malted barley extract and is fortified with vitamins

  • Cost per bowl: £0.26

  • Good source of fibre and protein:

    • Fibre: 3.8g per serving

    • Protein: 4.5g per serving

    • Sugar: 1.6g per serving

Tips for Choosing Healthy Cereals

When choosing a natural cereal, be wary of those containing dried fruit - fruit is hard to preserve naturally, so it can come paired with added preservatives. Instead, why not keep some fresh fruit in your fridge and top your favourite cereal with it in the mornings?

It’s also worth keeping an eye out for seed oils, like rapeseed oil or sunflower oil. These oils, despite being sourced from real, whole seeds, are usually refined, bleached and deodorised (aka ultra-processed) before being used in food manufacturing.

And finally, it’s important to remember that packaging food is part of ‘ultra-processing’, as it is carefully designed to increase the amount you eat. Be aware that cereal packaging might encourage you to eat more than recommended. While cooking at home is the best way to avoid ultra-processed foods altogether, sometimes we’re too busy and just need a quick, 'add-milk-and-go' breakfast. These cereals are some of the most natural options on your supermarket shelves. Enjoy your healthy breakfast!

Kat Myers
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