Cereals ready-to-eat, POST, GREAT GRAINS Crunchy Pecan Cereal

Post Great Grains Crunchy Pecan Cereal is a brand of ready-to-eat breakfast cereal produced by Post Consumer Brands, a major U.S. cereal manufacturer. Great Grains as a line was first introduced by Post to appeal to consumers seeking cereals made with whole grains and nuts, focusing on a combination of taste and nutrition. The Crunchy Pecan variant features whole grain flakes combined with crunchy pecan pieces to offer a mix of complex carbohydrates, plant-based fats, and fibers. While many breakfast cereals exist with various grain and nut combinations, Great Grains Crunchy Pecan positions itself as a heartier choice compared to highly processed sugar‑heavy cereals. Ready‑to‑eat cereals emerged in the early 20th century as consumers sought convenience breakfasts, culminating in iconic brands such as Corn Flakes and Bran Flakes. Post, founded in 1895 by C.W. Post, expanded its portfolio to include Great Grains in response to growing interest in whole grain foods. Whole grains like oats, wheat, and barley contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which are essential for digestive regularity and sustained energy release. The addition of pecans, a tree nut rich in monounsaturated fats, adds flavor and heart‑healthy lipids. Great Grains Crunchy Pecan stands apart for its balance of ingredients: fortified grain flakes, pecans, and added vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins. Although cereals vary widely—from sugary kids’ options to muesli and granola—the incorporation of pecans and whole grain profiles align this product with breakfast foods that deliver both sensory appeal and nutrient density. Across the Great Grains line, you’ll find other varieties such as Maple Pecan Crunch and Date & Pecan, each catering to different taste preferences but underpinned by whole grains and nuts. The historical evolution of ready‑to‑eat cereals reflects changing dietary priorities: from simple convenience to a blend of taste, convenience, and healthful eating patterns. Today, consumer demand often leans toward cereals with higher fiber and whole grain content, lower added sugar, and identifiable ingredients such as nuts and seeds.

The nutrition profile of Post Great Grains Crunchy Pecan Cereal reveals a cereal fortified with essential micronutrients and delivering a blend of macronutrients. A typical ¾ cup (52g) serving contains 210 calories, mostly from carbohydrates (~38g), fats (~5.5g), and protein (~4.7g) – demonstrating a balanced macronutrient distribution for a breakfast staple. The cereal provides ~5g of dietary fiber, which is meaningful for digestive health and satiety, helping you stay full longer when compared to low‑fiber breakfast options. Carbohydrates constitute the bulk of the energy contribution, reflecting the cereal’s role in providing quick energy for morning activities. Dietary fiber, found in whole grains and pecans, supports digestive regularity and may help moderate post‑meal blood glucose swings. The fiber content of ~5g per serving approaches approximately 18% of the daily value (DV) for fiber, depending on individual dietary needs. Dietary fiber also influences the glycemic response by slowing carbohydrate digestion and absorption, contributing to steadier blood sugar levels throughout the morning. Fats in this cereal (~5.5g) come mainly from pecans and grain oils, with ~0.52g saturated fat and a higher proportion of unsaturated fats, which are considered more heart‑friendly when replacing saturated fats. Protein at ~4.7g per serving provides a modest contribution toward daily protein requirements, though pairing this cereal with milk, yogurt, or a source of additional protein can create a more complete meal. Beyond macronutrients, Post Great Grains Crunchy Pecan is fortified with several vitamins and minerals that elevate its nutrient density. It delivers ~9mg of iron (50% DV) per serving, which is significant for supporting oxygen transport and energy metabolism, especially for individuals susceptible to iron deficiency. It also contains notable amounts of B vitamins, such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate, which play roles in energy metabolism, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Vitamin A (as retinol and provitamin A carotenoids) contributes to vision and immune function. Micronutrients such as vitamin D and vitamin B12, while present in smaller amounts, add nutritional value that might be less abundant in unfortified cereals. Calcium and potassium contribute to bone and cardiovascular health, though amounts are modest compared to fortified dairy products. Additionally, this cereal offers trace minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium, involved in enzyme function and antioxidant defense systems. In comparison to similar cereals, this product’s fiber and micronutrient fortification elevate its profile, though added sugars (~8g per serving) should be considered when evaluating overall diet quality. Compared with unfortified refined cereals, fortified breakfast cereals like Great Grains Crunchy Pecan can help close nutrient gaps in populations with insufficient micronutrient intake. When assessed on nutrient density models, higher fiber and micronutrient fortification often outweigh the moderate sugar content for many adults aiming for balanced breakfast choices.

Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 169862)