Cereal Claims "High in Fiber and Protein"

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Created on 01, July, 2005

A newspaper article about the advertising of “better-for-you” processed foods describes a new breakfast cereal with 2 g fiber and 6 g protein as “high in fiber and protein.”

In order to be “high in,” “rich in” or “an excellent source of” a nutrient, the food must contain at least 20% of the Daily Value (DV) for that nutrient in one serving (21 CFR 101.54). This particular product’s Nutrition Facts label shows only 10% of the DV for fiber and protein. It is therefore not “high in” those nutrients, but simply a “good source.” There are many cereals that are a much better source of fiber. Those with 5 g fiber are considered “high in” or “an excellent source of” fiber.