Reviews and Information for Oat-based Cereals
Oats (Rolled and Steel-Cut) Review
Find the best oats, oatmeal, and steel-cut oats based on our tests and comparisons. See which products pass or failed our tests, find out if contamination with gluten, lead, cadmium, arsenic, or mercury, and yeast and mold is a problem, and see our Top Picks based on quality, taste, and cost.
Oats (Rolled and Steel-Cut) Review Review
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CL Answer
Is it true that oat cereals, like Cheerios, oatmeal, oatflakes and steel-cut oats can be contaminated with a toxin?
Find out if oat cereals, like Cheerios and oatmeal, can be contaminated with the fungal toxin ochratoxin A (OTA). ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
Product Review
Farro and Bulgur Review
See How Bob's Red Mill Compares to Trader Joe's
Product Review
Gluten-Free Grains Review (Buckwheat, Quinoa, Sorghum, Millet, and Teff)
31% of Gluten-Free Grains Fail Our Tests Due to Contaminants. Quinoa, Buckwheat, Sorghum, Millet and Teff Tested.
Product Review
Plant-Based Milks Review (Almond, Cashew, Coconut, Flax, Hemp, Macadamia, Oat, Pea, and Soy)
Find the Best Non-Dairy Milk Alternative. ConsumerLab Tests Reveal What's Really In Plant-Based Milks.
CL Answer
Should I be concerned about phytic acid in oat cereals? I've heard that it can be harmful, but also that it can have health benefits.
Get information on phytic acid levels found in oats and oat cereals.
CL Answer
Do gluten-free diets increase your exposure to toxins like arsenic and mercury?
Find out if your gluten-free diet is increasing your exposure to toxic heavy metals like arsenic and mercury.
CL Answer
How concerned should I be about glyphosate in foods and supplements?
Find out if you should be concerned about glyphosate in foods and supplements. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
How can I find supplements that are gluten-free on ConsumerLab.com?
Gluten-Free supplements & vitamin information including other dietary features like vegetarian, vegan, and kosher on ConsumerLab.com. Our answer explains.
Product Review
Nutrition Bars & Cookies Review (For Energy, Fiber, Protein, Meal Replacement, and Whole Foods)
Find the Best Nutrition Bar or Cookie. ConsumerLab Tests Reveals Not All Nutrition Bars and Cookies Contain What They Claim.
News Release
December 05, 2024
Some Oats Surprisingly High in Gluten, According to ConsumerLab Tests
White Plains, NY, December 5, 2024 — Oats are a healthy source of fiber and naturally gluten-free. However, it’s not uncommon for oats to become contaminated with gluten during processing, which can cause problems for people with celiac disease and others who follow a gluten-free diet.
CL Answer
I enjoy oat milk in my coffee, but how healthy is it for me?
Is oat milk healthy? Information about oat milk contents, how much sugar and calcium is in oat milk, and if it is a healthy alternative to cow milk.
CL Answer
Supplements That May Be Needed When Following a Gluten-Free Diet
Find out if supplements such as folate, vitamin B-12, niacin, thiamin, iron, vitamin D, and/or fiber are needed when following a gluten-free diet. Also learn how to find gluten-free supplements on ConsumerLab.com.
Clinical Update
5/11/2019
Best Oats for Controlling Blood Sugar?
A recent study compared the effects on blood sugar and insulin levels of steel-cut oats, old fashioned rolled oats, instant ("quick") oats, and honey nut oat cereal. The surprising results are found in the Oat Cereals Review. Also see our Top Pick for oat cereals.
Product Review
Reishi Mushroom Supplements Review
Find the Best Reishi Mushroom Supplement. See How Reishi Supplements Differ.
Clinical Update
10/24/2024
Oat Cereals & Blood Sugar Control
Do different forms of oats affect blood sugar differently? Yes, and this also depends on how they are prepared, as discussed in the ConsumerTips section of our Oat Cereals Review, which includes our Top Picks among oat cereals.
Also see: Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?
Clinical Update
5/15/2019
How Do "Overnight Oats" Affect Blood Sugar?
We recently reported on the effects of various types of oats on blood sugar. A study by the same researchers has evaluated overnight oats – rolled oats soaked overnight in milk. Find out how overnight oats compare, see the Oat Cereals Review. Also see our Top Picks among oat cereals.
Clinical Update
1/09/2024
Oats vs Supplement for Cholesterol?
Can eating oats every day reduce total and LDL cholesterol as much as taking a phytosterol/stanol supplement, like Cholestoff? Find out in our Oat Cereals Review. Also see our Top Picks among oat cereals, including steel-cut, rolled, and instant oats, and oat bran.
Also learn about red yeast rice for lowering cholesterol and our Top Pick among such supplements.
Clinical Update
2/07/2023
Chemical In Oats
Chlormequat – a compound with potential negative effects – has been found in many oat-based food products sold in the U.S. Should you be concerned? Get the details, including products with the highest amounts, in the Quality Concerns section of our Oat Cereals Review.
Clinical Update
11/04/2017
Cereal Fiber Reduces Risk of Death from Colorectal Cancer
Higher intakes of dietary fiber are associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. A new study suggests that higher intakes of fiber from cereal may reduce the risk of dying among those who have the disease. How much is needed for a benefit? Get the details in the "What It Does" section of the Oat Cereals Review >> [Also see our Top Picks for oat cereals in the Review.]
Clinical Update
1/12/2019
Fiber Benefits
Higher fiber intake was associated with a lower risk of many major diseases in a recent study. However, the average American consumes far below the recommended daily intake of fiber. As oats are a good source of fiber, we’ve added details from the new study in the "Benefits" section of the Oat Cereals Review. (Also see our Top Picks oat cereals.)
Clinical Update
6/14/2019
Glyphosate in Cheerios
A new report shows the amounts of the herbicide glyphosate in oat cereals, like Cheerios, and oat-based snacks. Should you be concerned? See our updated answer to the question: How concerned should I be about glyphosate in foods and supplements?
Clinical Update
Clinical Update
10/19/2016
How Much Do Oats Lower Cholesterol?
A new report shows that you can lower bad cholesterol by nearly 5% when eating certain amounts of whole oats or oat bran. For details, as well as our tests of products, see the Oat Cereals Review >>
Clinical Update
9/20/2022
Oats for Lowering Cholesterol & Improving Gut Health
Regularly consuming oatmeal may lower cholesterol and promote beneficial changes in gut bacteria in people with mildly elevated cholesterol. Get the details based on a recent study in our Oat Cereals Review.
Also see our article about supplements and foods for lowering cholesterol.
CL Answer
What are "hypoallergenic" supplements? How can I find hypoallergenic supplements on ConsumerLab.com?
Hypoallergenic supplements are typically formulated without ingredients known to be common food allergens, such as milk, fish, shellfish, eggs and nuts, and/or gluten , and certain artificial coloring agents, and fillers. ConsumerLab has tested many hypoallergenic supplements including multivitamins, probiotics, protein powders and more.
Clinical Update
4/18/2023
Lowering Cholesterol with Beta-glucan?
Consuming oats, which contain beta-glucan, can help lower cholesterol. But do beta-glucan supplements help? See what a study showed in the Benefits section of our Oat Cereals Review, which includes our Top Picks among oat products.
Also see our article about supplements for heart health to learn which other supplements may help lower cholesterol.
CL Answer
Which foods are a good source of B vitamins?
Find out which foods are a good source of B vitamins (like folate and B-12) and when you should take Vitamin B supplements.
CL Answer
Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?
Information about heart health supplements & vitamins that help with cholesterol, including sterol esters, CoQ10, and vitamin D, and which may be bad for the heart, like calcium.
Product Review
Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review (Including Spirulina and Chlorella)
Avoid Lead in Greens, Problems with Pills, and Don't Give Up Eating Whole Foods.
Product Review
Lion's Mane and Chaga Supplements Review
Read Labels Carefully -- Many Can Mislead
Clinical Update
9/28/2022
Beta-glucan Supplements for Lowering Cholesterol?
Beta-glucan from cereals such as oats and barley may help lower cholesterol, but be aware that other sources of beta-glucan (including some supplements) may not. Find out in our CL Answer about supplements for heart health.
Clinical Update
5/06/2022
Toxin In Coffee?
Is roasted coffee likely to be contaminated with ochratoxin A? Find out what a recent study found in our updated article about contaminants in coffee.
Also see our articles about ochratoxin A in cocoa and chocolate and oat cereals.
CL Answer
Does taking a laxative interfere with the absorption of vitamins or minerals?
Information on laxative interactions with other medications and supplements such as Maalox, antibiotics, and statins and diabetes medications.
Product Review
Baobab Dried Fruit Pulp Review Article
What Are the Benefits of Baobab Dried Fruit Pulp? Find Out What's In Baobab Super Fruit Products, Safety, Side Effects & More.
News Release
May 22, 2020
Best Alternative Milks? ConsumerLab Tests Reveal What's Really in Plant-Based Milks
White Plains, New York, May 22, 2020 — Plant-based milks such as soy, oat and almond milk are often promoted as a healthy alternative to regular milk.
CL Answer
Is it true that most coffee is contaminated with mold?
Learn more about mold toxins that may be present in coffee, including mycotoxins, aflatoxin B1, and ochratoxin A (OTA).
Clinical Update
6/09/2023
Glyphosate in Oat Milk?
Do oat milks contain glyphosate (the herbicide often used on oats)? Find out what a recent study showed in our Plant-Based Milks Review.
Also see our Top Picks among plant-based milks.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of nutritional yeast and is it safe?
Learn about the nutritional content and health benefits of nutritional yeast (nooch), evidence for or against nutritional yeast for boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol and blood sugar, plus safety and side effects of nutritional yeast.
Clinical Update
12/16/2024
Oats and PFAS
Could consuming oat β-glucan reduce levels of toxic PFAS in the body? See what a recent study in mice found in the Benefits of Oats section of our new Oats Review, which includes our Top Picks for rolled ("old-fashioned") and steel-cut oats.
Also see our Top Pick water filter pitcher for removing PFAS from water, and our article about avoiding PFAS in food, water, and other products.
Clinical Update
1/02/2025
Gluten Concern with Trader Joes’ Oats
Be aware that a separate testing group reported excessive gluten in an oat product from Trader Joe’s. For details, see our Oats Review, which includes our Top Picks among oat products.
Clinical Update
12/09/2024
Are Oats Safe for Babies?
A CL member asked if any oats we recently tested exceeded proposed federal limits for infants and toddlers. Some would, as explained in the Heavy Metals section of our Oats Review, which includes our Top Picks for rolled ("old-fashioned") and steel-cut oats.
Product Review
St. John's Wort Supplements Review
Find the Best St. John's Wort Supplement. Only 40% of St. John's Wort Supplements Pass Tests & Strength Varies Widely.
CL Answer
Top 8 vitamins and nutrients for vegetarians and vegans
Find out which 8 supplements may be needed by vegetarians or vegans to meet all their daily nutrient requirements and learn ways to find supplements that do not contain ingredients objectionable to people following vegetarian or vegan diets.
Product Review
Prebiotic Supplements Review
You Can't Tell How Much Fiber Is Really In Most Prebiotics Without Testing
Clinical Update
5/29/2021
Plant Milks and Kidney Stones
Do almond, cashew, oat, soy or other plant-based milks increase the risk of kidney stones due to their oxalates? Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Plant-Based Milks Review and see which carry the highest risk. Also see our Top Picks among plant-based milks.
Clinical Update
5/14/2024
Plant-Based Milks: Iodine Concern
Be aware that almond, oat, and soy milk tend to contain very little iodine compared to cow’s milk, which could increase the risk of iodine deficiency and thyroid problems in people who do not get enough iodine from other sources. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Plant-Based Milks Review. This is particularly important for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding – due to increased iodine requirements, see our Top Pick prenatal multivitamin for more details.
Also see: Top 8 vitamins and nutrients for vegetarians and vegans
CL Answer
How likely are Americans to be deficient in vitamins or minerals?
Read info based on the CDC about vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin A, B-6, B-12, C, D, and E, folate, and iron in the United States.
CL Answer
What is lunasin and does it really reduce cholesterol?
Lunasin supplement information, whether lunasin can lower cholesterol, safety and side effects, foods that contain lunasin, like soy.
Recalls & Warnings
July 18, 2024
Great Value & Silk Plant-Based Milks Recalled in Canada, Linked With Deadly Listeria Outbreak
On July 8, 2024, Health Canada (the Canadian equivalent of the FDA) announced the recall of 18 varieties of Great Value and Silk brand oat, almond, coconut, and nut milks sold and distributed in Canada due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
CL Answer
I've heard that soaking dried beans for 24 hours reduces the phytate level, allowing for greater access to nutrients. Is this true?
Does soaking dried beans in water help reduce phytate levels to help gain greater access to nutrients?
CL Answer
I've heard that rice has high levels of arsenic. Does that mean rice bran oil does too?
Find out if rice bran oil can contain high levels of arsenic like whole rice and other rice products do.
CL Answer
Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?
Find out which supplements can help lower or control blood sugar. Supplements including turmeric/curcumin, fiber, cinnamon, and ginseng are believed to help lower blood sugar.
Clinical Update
4/15/2022
Mushrooms for Lowering Cholesterol?
The beta-glucan in oats can help lower elevated levels of cholesterol, but can the beta-glucan in mushrooms do the same? Find out in our article about Supplements and Foods for Lowering Cholesterol.
Clinical Update
11/18/2022
Psyllium For Lowering Cholesterol?
A CL Member asked if psyllium could help lower cholesterol and how it differs from oats. Find out in our updated CL Answer about supplements for lowering cholesterol.
Clinical Update
1/10/2023
More Vitamin D in Cereals
Be aware that more vitamin D can now be added to breakfast cereals and nutrition bars based on a recent FDA ruling. Get the details in the What to Consider When Buying section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.
Recalls & Warnings
July 24, 2023
ONO Overnight Oats Recalled Due to Allergen Risk
On July 18, 2023, ONO LLC issued a voluntary recall of the company’s ONO Vegan Blueberry Muffin Protein Overnight Oats due to undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
December 13, 2023
Bobo’s Peach Oat Bars Recalled Due to Undeclared Coconut
On December 9, 2023, Bobo’s issued a nationwide recall of multiple lots of Bobo’s Peach Oat Bars because they may contain undeclared coconut.
News Release
September 11, 2019
Some Nutrition Bars Contain More Carbs and Less Fiber Than Listed, ConsumerLab Tests Reveal
White Plains, New York, September 11, 2019 — Nutrition bars and cookies are promoted as a convenient way to get protein, fiber and other nutrients on-the-go, but recent ConsumerLab tests of popular nutrition bars and cookies reveal that some contain more carbohydrates (as well as fat and ...
CL Answer
What is acrylamide? Is it true that coffee and cocoa contain this toxin?
Find out what acrylamide is, how much is found in coffee and cocoa, and how you can minimize your intake of acrylamide.
CL Answer
Which supplements and foods reduce or increase the risk of kidney stones?
Find out which supplements, foods and beverages may increase or decrease the risk of kidney stones, including information about potassium, calcium, choline, turmeric and curcumin, vitamin C, as well as foods and beverages such as green tea, lemon juice, orange juice, cranberry juice, chocolate and almonds.
CL Answer
Which supplements can help treat anemia? Do any supplements cause a low red blood cell count?
Find out which vitamin and nutrient supplements can help prevent and treat anemia in people who are nutrient deficient and learn which supplements may cause low blood cell counts, especially when used in excess.
CL Answer
How do the Beyond Burger, the Impossible Burger, and a beef burger compare in terms of vitamins and minerals, and which is best?
Read our comparison of the Beyond Burger and the Impossible Burger, plant-based, meat alternative burgers. Compare nutrition, vitamins and minerals. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Best Supplements to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss
Discover the top supplements to prevent age-related muscle loss after 60. Learn how protein, fish oil, vitamin D, and more can help maintain muscle strength and combat sarcopenia.
News Release
August 30, 2016
Surprising Results in Oat Cereals Study by ConsumerLab.com -- Popular Brands Tested for Fungal Toxin, Gluten and Heavy Metals
White Plains, New York, August 30, 2016 — Cheerios, rolled oats, steel-cut oats and other oat cereals can be a healthy choice for breakfast.
CL Answer
Why does my multivitamin make me nauseous? Is there anything that can help?
Find out if ingredients in multivitamins can cause nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.
CL Answer
Which supplements and foods help relieve constipation and which can cause constipation?
Find out which supplements can cause constipation, including iron, calcium, protein powders and drinks and others. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Does Alpha Brain really improve memory, focus and cognition?
Find out if Alpha Brain really improves memory, focus and cognition. See the clinical evidence and get details about Alpha Brain ingredients, as well as potential side effects and drug interactions. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
Recalls & Warnings
August 01, 2022
53 Protein, Meal Replacement and Nutritional Beverages Recalled Due to Bacterial Contamination
On July 29, 2022, Lyons Magnus LLC issued a recall of 53 protein, meal replacement, and nutritional beverages, including those sold under the brand names of Glucerna, Premier Protein, Oatly, and others, due to the potential for microbial contamination, including from Cronobacter sakazakii.
Recalls & Warnings
April 29, 2024
Longreen Reishi and Xlim Express Coffee Recalled Due to Undeclared Allergens
On April 18, 2024, BF Suma Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2024
FDA Warns Lipari Foods for Mislabeled Walnuts, Other Violations
On April 9, 2024, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Lipari Foods Operating Company, LLC following multiple complaints and subsequent product recalls in August and September of 2023, which found the company did not follow the requirements of Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP), Hazard ...
Recalls & Warnings
September 23, 2024
Lactaid Milk Recalled Due to Allergen
On September 20, 2024, HP Hood LLC voluntarily recalled five SKUs of refrigerated Lactaid Milk due to the product potentially containing trace amounts of almond, which is not declared on the label. No illness has been reported to date.
Recalls & Warnings
October 10, 2024
Seaweed Recalled Due to Allergen Risk
On October 10, 2024, Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc. recalled its 3.52 oz packages of Shirakiku Korean Seasoned Seaweed.
Recalls & Warnings
May 09, 2024
Walnuts, Other Nuts, Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds Recalled Due to Undeclared Allergens
On May 8, 2024, Texas Pecan recalled various lots of the company’s 1 lb. and 8 oz.
News Release
August 12, 2008
ConsumerLab.com finds improvements in labeling of nutrition bars but potential pitfalls exist -- New report compares 20 bars, including those for protein, fiber, energy and whole food
WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 12, 2008 — Labeling on nutrition bars has become more accurate, according to a new report by ConsumerLab.com.
Recalls & Warnings
October 09, 2023
Orgain Protein Powder Recalled Due to Allergen Risk
On October 4, 2023, Orgain LLC issued a recall of four lots of the company’s Organic Protein Powder + Superfoods, Creamy Chocolate Fudge flavor protein powder after a co-manufacturer informed the company that the product contained undeclared sesame, which is now one of nine food ...
News Release
February 15, 2007
ConsumerLab.com survey shows brands and merchants rated highest by dietary supplement users
CONSUMERLAB.
Recalls & Warnings
July 18, 2017
Oat Cereal Recalled Due to Listeria Risk
On July 18, 2017, Garden of Light, Inc., recalled Woodstock Organic Matcha Vanilla Oats because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Recalls & Warnings
November 10, 2020
Seller of Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Warned for Drug Claims
On October 29, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Natural Sprout Co.
News Release
July 18, 2005
ConsumerLab.com tests menopause supplements — Alternatives to hormonal therapy — Report available for 38 products including soy and red clover isoflavones, black cohosh, and progesterone creams
WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 18, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released a new report on the quality of supplements used to treat symptoms of menopause, notably hot flashes.
Recalls & Warnings
November 27, 2017
Protein Bars Recalled After Consumer Finds Piece of Plastic in Bar
On November 23, 2017, Leclerc Foods recalled one lot of Fit & Active Chocolatey Chip Protein Meal Bars distributed to ALDI stores, as a precautionary measure after a small piece of yellow plastic was discovered by a consumer.
News Release
February 08, 2005
ConsumerLab.com reports on nutrition bars — Highlights major differences, inaccuracies, and urges consumers to "know your bar"
WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 8, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com reported test results today for 34 nutrition bars, including those designed for high protein, low-carb/diet, energy, or meal-replacement.
News Release
May 21, 2004
Consumers warned of pitfalls with some multivitamins and vitamin waters — Testing by ConsumerLab.com uncovers problems with many brands
WHITE PLAINS, NY — FRIDAY MAY 21, 2004 — (Updated June 2, 2004) — ConsumerLab.com reported the results today of a major new analysis of popular multivitamin products.
Recalls & Warnings
August 03, 2017
Protein Bars Recalled Due to Listeria Risk
On August 2, 2017, Amrita Health Foods recalled several varieties of protein bars due to potential contamination with Listeria monoocytogenes.
Recalls & Warnings
July 24, 2017
Protein Bars Recalled Due to Listeria Risk
On July 21, 2017, Bhu Foods recalled a number of their products after their organic sunflower seeds, distributed by Hudson Valley Foods, Inc., were potentially contaminated with Listeria monoocytogenes.
Recalls & Warnings
July 10, 2020
Sundial Herbal Recalls More Than Sixty Products Including Turmeric, Cinnamon & Tea
On July 9, 2020, Sundial Herbal Products issued a recall of more than 60 herbal products because they were misbranded and/ or promoted with drug claims. Their labels contain drug claims stating the products can diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent disease.
Recalls & Warnings
December 05, 2014
Maker of Immune Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On November 20, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Urban Moonshine, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
April 25, 2017
Soylent Powder Recalled Due to Allergen Risk
On April 24, 2017, Soylent issued a recall of 890 boxes (containing 7 x 15 oz pouches) of Soylent 1.8 Powder, because the product may contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
October 13, 2016
Soylent Recalls Bars As It Investigates Complaints of Gastrointestinal Issues
On October 12, 2016, Soylent announced it is halting all Soylent Bar purchases and shipments while it investigates consumer complaints of gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea, after consuming the bars.
Recalls & Warnings
June 17, 2004
FTC Challenges Deceptive Weight Loss Claims for Supplement Targeted at Hispanics
On June 17, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new law enforcement action challenging false advertising for the 1-2-3 Diet Kit, a purported weight loss product.
Recalls & Warnings
April 16, 2012
Protein Supplement Maker Fails FDA Audit -- Many Products Affected
The FDA sent a Warning Letter (dated April 2, 2012) to Theta Brothers Sports Nutrition, Inc. regarding numerous violations of good manufacturing practices at its Lakewood, New Jersey facility.
Recalls & Warnings
June 13, 2013
Seller of Cardio, Immune, Greens Supplements and More Warned For Drug Claims
On May 29, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement company Nature's Answer, following a review a the company's website, www.naturesanswer.
Recalls & Warnings
September 19, 2012
FDA Reports Arsenic in Rice Products -- Particularly Brown Rice
On September 19, 2012, the U.S. FDA released results of its testing of nearly 200 samples of rice and rice products, finding appreciable levels in many products, although the amounts in only a few exceed the cancer-warning threshold of the State of California (10 mcg per daily serving).
