Current availability of Frankenberry cereal
As of 2025, General Mills lists Frankenberry as a limited-production flavor, sold primarily through large national retailers, big-box stores, and major online marketplaces. You can buy it in many U.S. grocery stores, but stock may be intermittent compared with core flavors like Chocolate or Strawberry. International availability is sparse; some importers carry U.S. packaging, but formulations and labeling may differ.
Evergreen profile of Frankenberry cereal
Frankenberry is a fruit-flavored, frosted corn cereal introduced in 1971 as part of General Mills’ “Monster Cereals” lineup. Its mascot is a friendly, purple-skinned creature based on Frankenstein’s monster, with secondary characters including Berry Scream and Franken-Bites. The cereal is known for its mild berry flavor and distinctive pastel purple pieces. While seasonal promotions and re-releases have occurred, it remains a niche offering rather than a year-round mainstream staple.
Key attributes at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Mills | Company product listing |
| Launch year | 1971 | Historical product archives |
| Flavor profile | Berry-frosted corn cereal | Packaging and ingredient list |
| Typical U.S. retail price (est.) | $3.50–$5.00 for a 17.3 oz box | Retailer listings |
| Common allergens | Wheat, corn | Allergen statement on packaging |
| Gluten status | Not gluten-free | General Mills allergen guidance |
Ingredient profile and nutritional basics
Frankenberry is made primarily from corn flour, sugar, and malt flavoring, then frosted with a mix of sugar and artificial colors to create its signature purple pieces. Ingredients may include modified corn starch, salt, and various natural and artificial flavors. Nutrition per 1-cup serving (about 22 pieces) is roughly 110–130 calories, with low protein and minimal fiber. Exact formulations can vary by market and over time, so check the package label for the most current information.
Where to buy and what to expect
- Big-box and supercenter chains: Walmart, Target, and similar national retailers often carry Frankenberry, especially around Halloween or in seasonal waves.
- Grocery banners: Availability varies by region; larger urban stores and chains with broad cereal assortments are likelier to stock it.
- Online and direct-to-consumer: General Mills’ store, Amazon, and other e-commerce sites frequently list the cereal, with bundle offers and multipacks common.
- International buyers: Look for specialty import shops or authorized online importers; expect different packaging and potentially smaller sizes.
Marketing, seasonality, and product life cycle
Frankenberry is treated as a seasonal evergreen, with spikes in promotion around Halloween and back-to-school periods. General Mills has periodically revived limited-time variants, such as monster-themed packaging or co-branded bundles. These campaigns reinforce nostalgic appeal without committing to permanent line extensions. The overall product life cycle remains long but narrow, sustained by collector interest and brand loyalty rather than mass-market volume.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Frankenberry cereal still made in 2025? Yes. General Mills continues to produce it, though distribution is limited and can vary by retailer.
- Where is it available now? Major U.S. grocery chains, big-box stores, and many online marketplaces; international availability is more limited.
- Does it contain artificial colors or flavors? The ingredient list typically includes artificial colors and flavors, consistent with other Monster Cereals.
- Are there gluten-free or allergen-free versions? No; the standard formulation contains wheat and corn and is not labeled gluten-free.
- Has the recipe changed recently? No major reformulations have been announced. As with all cereals, minor tweaks can occur and are noted on packaging.
Comparing Frankenberry to other Monster Cereals
| Cereal | Color | Flavor Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frankenberry | Purple | Mild berry, sweet cereal | Limited, seasonal |
| Count Chocula | Brown | Chocolate-tinged, mildly sweet | Wider seasonal presence |
| BooBerry | Blue | Mixed berry, lighter sweetness | Periodic releases, similar pattern |
Verdict and practical takeaways
Frankenberry cereal is still in production in 2025, but it is a limited-run offering rather than a permanent flagship item. You can find it in many U.S. stores during peak seasons and online year-round, though shelf space may be inconsistent. Expect a nostalgic, mildly sweet berry cereal with wheat and corn allergens, and check the package label for the most current nutrition and ingredient details.