The cereal industry uses 816 million pounds of sugar per year, enough to coat each and every American with more than three pounds of sugar. Americans consume about ten pounds, or 160 bowls of cereal, per person each year. But America ranks only fourth in per capita cereal consumption. Ireland ranks first, England ranks second, and Australia ranks third. In terms of dollar value breakfast cereals are the third most popular product sold at supermarkets, after carbonated beverages and milk.
Cigarettes are the fourth most popular item followed by fresh bread and rolls.
Only auto manufacturers spend more money on television advertising than the makers of breakfast cereal. The Unsweetened Story of American Breakfast Cereal, by Scott Bruce and Bill Crawford.