FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageBACK TO NATURE· 2 COOKIES

BACK TO NATURE, RAINFOREST ALLIANCE CERTIFIED, COOKIES, CHOCOLATE CHUNK, CHOCOLATE CHUNK

BACK TO NATURE, RAINFOREST ALLIANCE CERTIFIED, COOKIES, CHOCOLATE CHUNK, CHOCOLATE CHUNK scores 16/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is the **high amount of added sugar**.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 16/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
  • It contains 24.23g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 3.8g of fiber per 100g, it offers a modest amount of dietary fiber.
  • As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from plain sparkling water.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat due to its nutritional profile.
  • Scores -16 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
3.8g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
7.69g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
24.23g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
268.85mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
Protein (7.7g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (24.2g)-25
Saturated fat (5.8g)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 16

BACK TO NATURE, RAINFOREST ALLIANCE CERTIFIED, COOKIES, CHOCOLATE CHUNK, CHOCOLATE CHUNK received a FoodScore of 16 out of 100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption. The most significant factor driving this low score is the high added sugar content, which stands at 24.23g per 100g. This contributes a substantial -25 penalty to the overall score. Additionally, the product contains 5.77g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -5 penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, incurring a -10 penalty, along with an additional -3 penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat. On the positive side, it gains +4 points for its 3.8g of fiber and +3 points for 7.69g of protein per 100g. It also receives +2 points for its iron content (2.77mg, 15% DV). The presence of safflower oil as a primary fat source, alongside evaporated cane juice as a sweetener, highlights its processed nature. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this product offers a significantly different nutritional profile, primarily due to its caloric density, sugar, and fat content.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in back to nature, rainforest alliance certified, cookies, chocolate chunk, chocolate chunk actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

This product provides 2.77mg of iron per 100g, which contributes 15% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production in the body. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals meet their daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It's important to consider the overall nutritional context of the product when relying on it for micronutrient intake.

Contains Dietary Fiber

BACK TO NATURE cookies offer 3.8g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it does provide some fiber, which is beneficial. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can contribute to satiety and overall gut function. This product's fiber content comes primarily from the unbleached wheat flour.

Provides Protein

With 7.69g of protein per 100g, this product contributes to your daily protein intake. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for various bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, the protein content can add to the overall nutrient profile when consumed in moderation. The protein is primarily derived from the wheat flour and potentially from the chocolate components.

How to eat it

Cookies like BACK TO NATURE Chocolate Chunk are typically consumed as a snack or dessert. A common portion size is 2 cookies, as indicated by the manufacturer. These are often enjoyed with beverages or as a sweet treat after meals. The primary pitfall is overconsumption due to their palatability and caloric density.

Pair with a glass of milk or a piece of fruit to add additional nutrients and fiber to your snack.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single cookie rather than consuming multiple servings.
Consider these cookies as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple in your diet.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and help with portion control.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains wheat and soy, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the unbleached wheat flour. Those with soy allergies should also exercise caution due to the presence of soy lecithin. The high added sugar content, primarily from evaporated cane juice and sugar in the chocolate, means individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product sparingly and account for its impact on their carbohydrate intake. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed, which may be a consideration for some consumers.

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Reader questions
Is BACK TO NATURE Chocolate Chunk Cookies healthy?
BACK TO NATURE Chocolate Chunk Cookies score 16/100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to their high added sugar content (24.23g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food. While they offer some iron, fiber, and protein, these benefits are outweighed by the less favorable nutritional aspects for regular consumption.
How does BACK TO NATURE compare to other cookie brands?
Compared to other popular chocolate chip cookies like Nabisco Chips Ahoy!, BACK TO NATURE cookies share a similar nutritional profile in terms of high added sugar and fat. Both are ultra-processed snacks. While specific nutrient values may vary slightly, the overall recommendation for moderation remains consistent across most branded cookies in this category.
What is 'evaporated cane juice' in the ingredient list?
Evaporated cane juice is a less-processed form of sugar, but it is still considered an added sugar from a nutritional standpoint. It contributes to the overall sugar content of the product, which is a significant factor in its FoodScore. Despite its name, it functions similarly to other forms of sugar in the body.
What is a reasonable portion size for these cookies?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 2 cookies. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories, added sugar, and saturated fat. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase the nutritional impact of these less favorable components.
Are these cookies suitable for a vegan diet?
The ingredient list for BACK TO NATURE Chocolate Chunk Cookies does not explicitly list animal products other than what might be in 'chocolate' (which can sometimes contain dairy). However, the presence of 'semisweet chocolate' and soy lecithin means it's essential to check for specific vegan certifications if you follow a strict vegan diet, as cross-contamination or hidden dairy can occur.

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Data & references