Search our database for specific raisin bran products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Raisin Bran products →Raisin Bran vs Grape-Nuts Comparison
Both are positioned as "adult" health cereals, but their ingredient lists differ significantly. Raisin Bran has a longer ingredient list including BHT preservative, glycerin on the raisins, and synthetic vitamin fortification. Grape-Nuts is one of the simplest mainstream cereals with just 4 ingredients.
Breakfast CerealsQuick Answer
Grape-Nuts (Level 3, 4 ingredients) is significantly less processed than Raisin Bran (Level 4, 15+ ingredients). Raisin Bran's raisins are coated with glycerin and sunflower oil, and the cereal flakes include BHT preservative, added sugar, and malt flavoring. Grape-Nuts is the cleaner choice.
Raisin Bran vs Grape-Nuts
Raisin Bran
Grape-Nuts
Search our database for specific grape-nuts products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Grape-Nuts products →Our Verdict
Grape-Nuts (Level 3, 4 ingredients) is significantly less processed than Raisin Bran (Level 4, 15+ ingredients). Raisin Bran's raisins are coated with glycerin and sunflower oil, and the cereal flakes include BHT preservative, added sugar, and malt flavoring. Grape-Nuts is the cleaner choice.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Raisin Bran have so many ingredients?
Raisin Bran has two processing challenges: the bran flakes need fortification and preservatives (including BHT) for shelf stability, and the raisins require glycerin and sunflower oil coatings to prevent them from drying out and hardening in the box. These practical requirements add up to a much longer ingredient list than Grape-Nuts.
Is Raisin Bran actually healthy?
Raisin Bran has 17-19g of sugar per serving (more than Frosted Flakes at 12g), largely from the sugar-coated raisins. It does provide fiber and iron, but the sugar content and BHT preservative make it more processed than its health image suggests.
Related Food Guides
Learn more about the individual foods in this comparison.