BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
FoodScore: 5/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 33.3g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
Provides 6.67g of fiber per 100g, a positive nutritional aspect.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Scores -37 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
6.67g
24% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
33.3g
67% of Daily Value
Sodium
300mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.7g)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (33.3g)-25
Saturated fat (26.7g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 5
BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED scores 5 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely attributed to its nutritional profile, particularly its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. The product contains 33.3g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Additionally, it provides 26.67g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. The presence of propylene glycol and sodium metabisulfite, along with its overall formulation, classifies it as NOVA 4, an ultra-processed food, resulting in a further -10 point penalty. A specific penalty of -3 points is applied for being a concentrated ultra-processed fat source. On the positive side, the product does offer 6.67g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a +8 point bonus. However, this bonus is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to generic unsweetened coconut, BAKER'S version has significantly more added sugar, which is the primary differentiator impacting its nutritional score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in baker's sweetened coconut, sweetened actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 6.67g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is known to support digestive regularity and may help with satiety. While this amount is notable, it is important to consider the overall nutritional context of the product, particularly its high added sugar and saturated fat content, when incorporating it into a balanced diet.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT can be a flavorful addition to various recipes, enhancing the taste and texture of baked goods, desserts, and some savory dishes. Its distinct coconut flavor and texture can be used to add a tropical element to meals. However, its nutritional profile suggests using it in moderation to avoid excessive intake of added sugars and fats.
Energy Contribution
With 466.67 calories per 100g, this product is energy-dense. For individuals needing to increase caloric intake, or as a small component of a larger meal, it can provide a quick source of energy. The calories primarily come from fat and added sugar, so it is important to balance this with nutrient-dense foods.
BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
Sweetened coconut is typically used as an ingredient in baking, desserts, or as a topping for fruit and yogurt. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which should be considered when managing intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Use small portions as a garnish for oatmeal or fruit to add flavor without significantly increasing sugar intake.
Combine with unsweetened coconut flakes in recipes to reduce the overall added sugar content of your dish.
Incorporate into homemade granola or energy bites, ensuring to balance with other low-sugar, high-fiber ingredients.
Consider it an occasional ingredient for special treats rather than a daily staple due to its high added sugar and saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars and saturated fats should be mindful of portion sizes for BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT. The product contains sodium metabisulfite, a preservative that can cause allergic-type reactions, including anaphylaxis, in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma. The high sugar content may also be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. As a tree nut product (coconut), it should be avoided by individuals with coconut allergies.
BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED has a FoodScore of 5/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its nutritional profile is characterized by high levels of added sugar (33.3g per 100g) and saturated fat (26.67g per 100g), which are factors that negatively impact its score. While it does offer some fiber, the overall composition suggests moderation.
How does BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT compare to generic unsweetened coconut?
Compared to generic unsweetened coconut, BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED contains a significant amount of added sugar (33.3g per 100g). Unsweetened coconut typically has no added sugar. This difference in sugar content is the primary factor driving the lower FoodScore for the BAKER'S product, making the unsweetened version a nutritionally preferable choice for most applications.
What is propylene glycol, and is it safe?
Propylene glycol is an ingredient listed in BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED, used as a humectant to preserve freshness. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products. In the amounts typically consumed in food, it is not considered harmful for most individuals. However, some people may experience mild sensitivities.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED is 2 tablespoons. Given its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, adhering to this portion size, or even using smaller amounts, is advisable. For example, a small sprinkle as a topping would be a more moderate approach than using it as a primary ingredient in large quantities.
Can I use BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT in a low-sugar diet?
Due to its high added sugar content (33.3g per 100g), BAKER'S SWEETENED COCONUT, SWEETENED is generally not suitable for a low-sugar diet. Individuals following such a diet should opt for unsweetened coconut products or alternatives to avoid exceeding their daily sugar limits. Brands like Bob's Red Mill also offer unsweetened shredded coconut options.