Aunt Jemima Original Syrup 24 Fluid Ounce Plastic Bottle
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup scores 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**. It offers minimal nutritional value.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and ultra-processing.
Contains 28.09g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Offers negligible protein, fiber, and micronutrients like potassium and calcium.
Best used sparingly as an occasional topping rather than a regular dietary component.
Scores -42 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0.2g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
0.01g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28.09g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
152.5mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (28.1g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup receives a FoodScore of 0/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which is dominated by added sugars. Per 100g, this product contains 28.09g of added sugar, a significant amount that incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore system. The ingredient list highlights corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup as the primary components, directly contributing to this high sugar load. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. This classification incurs an additional penalty, reflecting the extensive industrial processing and the presence of ingredients like cellulose gum, caramel color, and artificial flavor. Aunt Jemima Original Syrup provides virtually no protein (0.01g), fiber (0.2g), or essential micronutrients, leading to a penalty for empty calories. Compared to a generic unbranded syrup, which often shares a similar composition, this product aligns with the typical nutritional profile of highly sweetened, processed syrups.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in aunt jemima original syrup 24 fluid ounce plastic bottle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Quick Energy
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup is composed primarily of sugars, specifically corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup. These simple carbohydrates are rapidly digested and absorbed, providing a quick source of energy. For individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as after intense physical activity, the sugars in this syrup can help replenish glycogen stores. However, this energy comes without significant accompanying nutrients, making it a less ideal choice for sustained energy or overall dietary health.
Enhances Palatability of Certain Foods
The sweet and familiar flavor of Aunt Jemima Original Syrup can enhance the palatability of otherwise plain foods, such as pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. For some, this can make meals more enjoyable and encourage consumption, particularly for those who find certain breakfast items unappealing on their own. The syrup's texture also adds a desirable mouthfeel to dry foods. It serves as a condiment to improve the sensory experience of a meal.
Useful for Specific Culinary Applications
Beyond breakfast foods, Aunt Jemima Original Syrup can be used in various culinary applications where a sweet, viscous liquid is desired. It can function as an ingredient in glazes for meats, in certain baked goods, or as a sweetener in sauces. Its consistent texture and sweetness make it a reliable component for recipes that call for a liquid sweetener, offering a specific functional role in cooking and baking.
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup scores 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature. It offers minimal nutritional value.
How to eat it
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup is typically used as a topping for breakfast foods like pancakes, waffles, and French toast. It is also sometimes incorporated into recipes for baked goods or glazes. The common portion size is 1/4 cup (60 mL), which contributes a significant amount of added sugars to a meal. Moderation is key due to its minimal nutritional content.
Use Aunt Jemima Original Syrup sparingly as a condiment; consider diluting it with water or mixing with fruit puree to reduce the amount per serving.
Pair with protein-rich foods like eggs or Greek yogurt and fiber-rich options like whole-grain pancakes or fresh fruit to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Measure your portion size carefully to avoid overconsumption of added sugars; a small drizzle can often provide enough flavor.
Explore alternatives like pure maple syrup or honey, which, while still sources of sugar, may offer slightly different micronutrient profiles.
Consider using fresh fruit as a natural sweetener for breakfast items, reducing the need for added syrups.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in Aunt Jemima Original Syrup, which is primarily derived from corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. The syrup also contains caramel color, which has been a subject of discussion regarding its manufacturing byproducts, though current regulatory bodies consider it safe at typical consumption levels. Preservatives like sodium benzoate and sorbic acid are included to maintain product freshness. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit foods containing these additives. This product is not a significant source of common allergens.
Aunt Jemima Original Syrup is not considered a healthy food choice. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high content of added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It provides negligible amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, offering primarily empty calories.
How does Aunt Jemima Original Syrup compare to other syrups?
Compared to pure maple syrup, such as Log Cabin All Natural Table Syrup, Aunt Jemima Original Syrup contains a higher proportion of corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup, and generally lacks the trace minerals found in pure maple syrup. It is also more processed. While both are sources of sugar, pure maple syrup is often considered a less processed option.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener made from corn starch. It is used in Aunt Jemima Original Syrup, alongside corn syrup, as a primary source of sweetness and to achieve the desired texture and shelf stability. Its presence contributes significantly to the product's high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for Aunt Jemima Original Syrup?
A reasonable portion size for Aunt Jemima Original Syrup, given its high sugar content, would be a small amount, such as 1-2 tablespoons, rather than the suggested 1/4 cup serving. This helps to limit added sugar intake while still enjoying the flavor. Consider it an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Can Aunt Jemima Original Syrup be used in baking?
Yes, Aunt Jemima Original Syrup can be used in baking as a sweetener or for its viscous texture. However, be mindful that it will contribute a significant amount of added sugars to your baked goods. Adjust other sweeteners in your recipe accordingly to manage the overall sugar content.