BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters Almond & Cherry receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high content of added sugar** and **saturated fat**, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters score 2/100, indicating it is not recommended for regular consumption.
This product contains 35g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
With 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, it contributes substantially to daily limits.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed and differs greatly from plain water or unsweetened beverages.
Consider this product as an occasional treat in very small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -30 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
325mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (35g)-25
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters Almond & Cherry receives a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, primarily driven by its nutritional composition. The product is heavily penalized for its high added sugar content, contributing 35g per 100g, which is a substantial amount. Additionally, the saturated fat content is high at 17.5g per 100g, largely from ingredients like dark chocolate, palm kernel oil, and palm oil. The product's classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty. While it receives minor bonuses for its 2.5g of fiber, 5g of protein, and 3.6mg of iron (20% DV), these are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters offers minimal beneficial nutrients while providing a high caloric density from added sugars and fats.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in brookside, crunchy clusters, almond & cherry, almond & cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Iron
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters contribute 3.6mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various cellular functions. While this product is not a primary source of iron, it can contribute to daily intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption. However, this benefit should be weighed against the product's overall nutritional profile.
Contains Some Dietary Fiber
This product offers 2.5g of dietary fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While 2.5g is not a high amount, it is a positive attribute for a snack item. Consumers should aim to get most of their fiber from whole, unprocessed foods.
Offers a Small Amount of Protein
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters provide 5g of protein per 100g. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, and satiety. While this amount is not substantial enough to be considered a high-protein food, it does offer a minor contribution to daily protein needs. This protein comes from ingredients like almonds and milk.
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters Almond & Cherry receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters are typically consumed as a snack or dessert, often in small portions. They are designed for convenience and can be eaten on their own. Due to their high sugar and fat content, they are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of the diet.
Practice portion control by pre-portioning a small amount into a bowl to avoid overconsumption.
Pair with a source of whole fruit or unsweetened nuts to add more fiber and nutrients, balancing the snack's profile.
Consider this as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack option to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality, but remember that storage does not alter its nutritional composition.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including milk, soy, wheat, and almonds, which are tree nuts. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters. The presence of palm kernel oil and palm oil contributes to the high saturated fat content, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their cardiovascular health. The significant amount of added sugar, including sugar and corn syrup, could be a consideration for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. Its ultra-processed nature also means it contains a complex mix of ingredients that may not be suitable for all dietary preferences.
Is BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters Almond & Cherry healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 2/100, BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters Almond & Cherry is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugars and saturated fats, and classified as ultra-processed, offering minimal beneficial nutrients in comparison.
How does BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters compare to other chocolate-covered snacks?
Compared to many other chocolate-covered snack options, BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters share a similar nutritional profile, often being high in added sugar and saturated fat. For instance, a standard milk chocolate bar like a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar also contains significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, placing both in the category of occasional treats rather than everyday staples.
What is 'cocoa processed with alkali' in the ingredient list?
Cocoa processed with alkali, also known as Dutch-processed cocoa, is cocoa powder that has been treated to reduce its acidity. This process can make the cocoa darker and milder in flavor, but it can also reduce the amount of beneficial antioxidants present in the cocoa.
What is a reasonable portion size for BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters?
Given its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, a reasonable portion size for BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters would be much smaller than the declared serving size of 1.4 ounces if consumed regularly. For an occasional treat, consider a very small handful to minimize intake of less desirable nutrients.
Can children eat BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters?
While children can consume BROOKSIDE Crunchy Clusters, it should be in very limited quantities and infrequently. The high added sugar content is a concern for children's dental health and overall diet quality. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed snacks is generally recommended for children.