Granola
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What it is
Granola is a breakfast food and snack food consisting of a mixture of rolled oats, nuts, honey or other sweeteners such as brown sugar, and sometimes puffed rice, that is baked until crisp. It is often seasoned with spices such as cinnamon. Granola is typically eaten hot or cold with milk or yogurt.
Why it's used
Granola is primarily used as a breakfast cereal or a snack. Manufacturers add it to foods for its texture, flavor, and nutritional content, particularly fiber and protein from the oats and nuts. It is commonly found in breakfast cereals, yogurt parfaits, and energy bars.
Health notes
Granola is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of fiber and can contribute to a healthy diet. However, many commercial granolas can be high in added sugars and fats, which may be a concern for some individuals. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated similar ingredients used in granola, but specific evaluations for 'granola' as a composite food are not typically made. Evidence regarding the health benefits of granola is mixed, depending heavily on the specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Allergen info
Granola is not a major allergen itself, but it often contains nuts (tree nuts) and may contain wheat or soy, which are major allergens. It is important to check the ingredient list for specific allergen information.