I Tried a Low-Sugar Cereal With 16g of Protein—and It Made Hitting My Macros So Much Easier

There are few foods as reliable and satisfying as a classic bowl of cereal. But far too often, that comfort comes packed with added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients that make breakfast feel more like an indulgent dessert. With consumers becoming more mindful about what goes into their everyday staples, brands like Catalina Crunch aim to offer healthier alternatives without skimping on flavor.

The brand, which also sells savory snack mixes and granola, recently rolled out two new bakery-inspired cereal flavors: Strawberry Strudel and Apple Turnover. Both flavors take cues from the classic breakfast pastries. Think, baked fruit notes and light spice in a crunchy cereal format. It hits that comfort factor without feeling like a dessert-disguised breakfast.

Catalina Crunch was founded by Krishna Kaliannan, a Type 1 diabetic who saw a gap in the market for delicious snacks that supported stable blood sugar and everyday nutrition. Each recipe is crafted to be low in sugar, while also offering other helpful nutritional benefits, such as protein and fiber.

The nutrition profile on their cereal is certainly impressive. A full bowl comes in under 250 calories, contains just 2 grams of sugar, and delivers a healthy dose of both protein and fiber. Unlike many protein-branded snacks that focus solely on, well, protein, Catalina Crunch stands out as a more well-rounded option.

Try out the new flavors and let us know what you think.

Related: I Tried Wilde Protein Chips—Here's Why They're My New Go-To Snack

Nutrition Facts

Based on a serving size of 54 grams, approximately a bowl of cereal.

Strawberry Strudel

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 9g
• Carbs: 23g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 16g

Apple Turnover

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 9g
• Carbs: 23g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 16g

Related: Blue Bell Announces Launch of High-Protein Ice Cream Line