Are Weetabix Actually Healthy?

Many of us grew up with Weetabix, a cereal that stands out for its simplicity compared to the sugar-laden "fun" cereals. Marketed as "good food you can trust," it’s easy to assume that something so wholesome-looking must be good for you. But with the recent focus on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), questions have arisen about just how healthy Weetabix really is.

Adding to the confusion, Weetabix now comes in various types catering to different tastes and dietary preferences, from high protein and organic versions to crispy flakes and minis with added fruits and nuts. Despite the variety, one thing remains constant: if left unrinsed, Weetabix tends to harden into a paste, due to its high starch content. While this might seem unappetizing, rest assured that this process doesn't occur in your digestive system. According to Emma Shafquat, a paediatric dietitian, your stomach and intestines break down food using enzymes and bacteria, preventing it from "drying out" as it does in a bowl.

Should You Avoid Weetabix Because It's a UPF?

If you’re cautious about consuming UPFs, you might be concerned about ingredients in foods like Weetabix that you wouldn’t typically find in your kitchen. However, Rhiannon Lambert, a registered nutritionist and author, suggests this isn't always a problem. "People often worry when they see terms like ‘niacin,’ ‘riboflavin,’ and ‘folic acid’ on cereal boxes, fearing they are unnatural chemicals. In reality, these nutrients are essential for health and are added to foods like Weetabix to ensure a balanced intake," she explains.

Shafquat agrees, highlighting that fortified cereals can be especially beneficial for children and adults who may struggle to get enough nutrients, such as iron, from their diet. "Folic acid, for example, reduces the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy, so the fortification of Weetabix is a positive thing," she adds.

Five Reasons Why Weetabix Can Be Considered Healthy

According to experts, here are five reasons why Weetabix is a healthy option:

1. Low in sugar: "Weetabix has minimal sugar content, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, crucial for sustained energy, especially in children," says Lambert.
2. High in fibre: "This supports digestive health and helps you feel fuller for longer," notes Shafquat.
3. Fortified with nutrients: "Weetabix is a significant source of iron, particularly from fortified cereals," says Lambert. However, she points out that organic versions cannot be fortified by law, making the original Weetabix nutritionally superior.
4. Low in salt: "With just 0.10g of salt per two biscuits, Weetabix is a low-sodium option, aligning with the UK’s daily salt intake recommendations," says Shafquat.
5. Convenient: "Weetabix is quick to prepare with milk or a plant-based alternative and can be topped with fruits for added nutrition," says Lambert, making it ideal for busy mornings.

Is Weetabix a UPF?

Technically, Weetabix falls under the category of UPFs because of ingredients like malted barley extract, which isn’t typically found in home kitchens. However, Lambert clarifies, "Despite being a UPF, original Weetabix varieties offer whole grains, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, which contribute to a balanced diet. This highlights why not all UPFs should be labeled as unhealthy."

Shafquat concurs, stating that Weetabix ranks low on the list of foods to avoid due to its UPF status.

Verdict: Is Weetabix Healthy?

Based on the nutritional information, the original Weetabix ticks all the boxes for healthy eating. However, not all varieties are equal. Flavoured versions like chocolate or fruit and nut minis contain significantly more sugar, and even options like Weetabix Protein have a higher sugar content than the original.

"While these cereals offer a good amount of protein, it comes at the cost of increased sugar," explains Lambert. Our experts agree that a bowl of original Weetabix is a healthy way to start the day, provided you stick to the plain varieties.

Lambert concludes, "I recommend choosing original Weetabix or Oatibix for their balanced nutritional profile and minimal added sugars. These options also allow you to customize your breakfast with healthy toppings."

How to Boost Your Bowl of Weetabix

If you find Weetabix a bit bland, Lambert offers these suggestions to make it tastier and more nutritious:

• Add nut butter: "A spoonful of almond or peanut butter increases the unsaturated fat content, slowing down digestion and providing a more gradual blood glucose response, keeping you fuller for longer."
• Sprinkle on nuts: "Nuts are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress."
• Top with fresh fruit: "Berries, bananas, or apples add natural sweetness, vitamins, and fibre. Pairing Weetabix with an orange is particularly beneficial, as the vitamin C enhances iron absorption."
• Add to yoghurt: "Crush up Weetabix and sprinkle it over yoghurt for added protein and a longer-lasting feeling of fullness."