Is Granola Ultra-Processed?
Most packaged granolas are NOVA 4.
Granola often contains refined sweeteners, oils, and additives. Homemade or short-ingredient granola keeps you closer to NOVA 3.
Most granola is ultra-processed.
Commercial granola uses brown rice syrup, cane sugar, seed oils, and flavors. Look for organic granola sweetened with maple syrup and baked with coconut or olive oil instead.
- Watch sugar levels.
- Seed oils and additives push NOVA higher.
- Choose granola with nuts, seeds, and coconut oil.
Ingredient Analysis
Oats + nuts
The good stuff should lead with whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Sweeteners
Multiple sugars, syrups, or candy pieces signal ultra-processing.
Oils
Opt for coconut or olive oil over canola/soybean oil.
Is it GF/DF/Vegan/Healthy?
Gluten-Free
Only certified GF oats guarantee no cross-contact.
Dairy-Free
Granola is usually dairy free unless coated with yogurt.
Vegan
Honey-based granola is not vegan.
Healthy
Choose low-sugar granola baked with quality oils.
What to Look for on Labels
Check sugar per serving
Keep it under 6–7 g added sugar.
Look at oils
Pass on granola fried in soybean or canola oil.
Spot candy mix-ins
If you see marshmallows or chocolate chunks, NOVA 4 is a given.
Related Collections
Healthy Granolas
45 productsWholesome granola options
Low Sugar Cereals
45 productsStart your day without sugar rush
NOVA 1-2 Snacks
45 productsLeast processed options
Non-Ultra-Processed Snacks
45 productsNOVA 1-3 snacks
Minimally Processed Foods
45 productsWhole food choices
Clean Ingredient Champions
45 productsCleanest ingredient lists
Healthiest Cereals
45 productsTop-rated breakfast cereals
High Fiber Cereals
45 productsFiber-packed breakfast
Snacks With Whole Grains
45 productsFiber-rich whole grains
Organic Certified Products
45 productsUSDA organic verified
Non-GMO Verified
45 productsNo genetically modified ingredients
Allergy-Friendly Snacks
45 productsFree from common allergens
Quick Breakfast Options
45 productsEasy morning meals
Better Pancakes & Waffles
45 productsHealthier breakfast options
Energy Bars
45 productsFuel your active lifestyle
Granola Bars
45 productsPortable convenient bars
High Fiber Snacks
45 productsFiber-rich for satiety
High Protein Snacks (10g+)
45 productsStay full with protein-rich options
Healthy Snacks for Kids
45 productsNutritious options kids enjoy
Kid-Friendly Lunch Box
45 productsSchool lunch ideas
Budget-Friendly Finds
45 productsGreat value options