The BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT receives a FoodScore of 6/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by a **high amount of added sugar** and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This BEE product scores 6/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular dietary item.
A significant concern is the 43.3g of added sugar per 100g, contributing heavily to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic gingerbread house kit, this product's nutritional profile is similar.
Consider this kit for occasional use, focusing on the creative activity rather than nutritional contribution.
Scores -9 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
43.3g
87% of Daily Value
Sodium
167mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (43.3g)-25
Saturated fat (8.3g)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 6
The BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT receives a FoodScore of 6 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its high content of added sugar, which stands at 43.3g per 100g. This amount significantly penalizes the score, reflecting dietary guidelines that recommend limiting added sugars. Additionally, the product contains 8.33g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing further negative points. The presence of vegetable oil shortening and its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food also incur substantial penalties. While the product does offer 6.67g of protein and 6.67mg of iron (37% DV) per 100g, these positive contributions are not enough to offset the negative impacts from the sugar, saturated fat, and processing level. Compared to a generic unbranded gingerbread house kit, the BEE version presents a very similar nutritional profile, consistent with typical sweet confectionery kits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bee gingerbread house kit - notched gingerbread panels, assorted candies, 2 decorator bags & 2 tips, pre-mixed icing actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product provides 6.67mg of iron per 100g, which is 37% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary health food, the iron content in the gingerbread panels can contribute to daily intake, particularly for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption.
Provides Protein
The BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT contains 6.67g of protein per 100g. Protein is a macronutrient vital for muscle repair, immune function, and enzyme production. Although the overall nutritional profile is not ideal, the protein content from the enriched flour in the gingerbread panels offers a modest contribution to daily protein needs.
Occasional Enjoyment
As a sweet treat, this kit can offer occasional enjoyment and a fun activity, particularly during holidays. While not a source of significant health benefits, allowing for infrequent indulgence in foods like the BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT can be part of a balanced dietary pattern that emphasizes moderation and variety in overall food choices.
The BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT receives a FoodScore of 6/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by a high amount of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
The BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT is typically consumed as a holiday treat or dessert, often as part of a festive activity. Given its high sugar content, it is best enjoyed in small portions and infrequently, rather than as a regular snack or meal component.
To manage sugar intake, consider decorating with fewer candies and using the icing sparingly.
Pair a small portion of the gingerbread house with nutrient-dense foods like fruit or nuts to add fiber and healthy fats to your snack.
Focus on the creative aspect of building the gingerbread house as a family activity, rather than consuming large quantities.
Store any leftover gingerbread house in an airtight container to maintain freshness and help with portion control over several days.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that the BEE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT is an ultra-processed food with a high amount of added sugar and saturated fat. The ingredient list includes sodium metabisulfite, a preservative that some individuals, particularly those with asthma, may be sensitive to. The product also contains common allergens such as wheat and soy lecithin. Due to its high sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very small portions. Children should also consume this product in moderation due to its overall nutritional profile.
No, the BEE Gingerbread House Kit is not considered healthy for regular consumption. It scores 6/100 on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content (43.3g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It is best viewed as an occasional treat.
How does BEE Gingerbread House Kit compare to other holiday sweets?
Compared to other holiday sweets like a generic chocolate chip cookie or a slice of pumpkin pie, the BEE Gingerbread House Kit has a similar profile in terms of high added sugar and fat. For example, a typical store-bought frosted sugar cookie would also be high in sugar and ultra-processed.
What is 'vegetable oil shortening' in the ingredients?
Vegetable oil shortening is a blend of oils, which in this product includes palm oil, canola oil, coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. These are often used to provide texture and extend shelf life in baked goods. The saturated fat content (8.33g per 100g) is partly attributed to these oils.
What is a reasonable portion size for this kit?
Given its nutritional profile, a reasonable portion size would be very small, perhaps a small piece of a decorated gingerbread panel. The serving size on the label is 0.038 kit, which is a very small amount, reflecting that the entire kit is not intended for a single serving.
Can I make a healthier gingerbread house at home?
Yes, making a gingerbread house from scratch at home allows for greater control over ingredients. You can reduce added sugars, use whole wheat flour, and choose healthier decorations like dried fruit or nuts instead of candies to improve the nutritional quality.