BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS, BERRY MEDLEY receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **significant saturated fat** from dark chocolate and palm kernel oil.
FoodScore: 2/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 36.75g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 20% DV for iron, a minor nutritional contribution.
Best consumed in very small portions as an occasional treat.
Scores -13 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
36.75g
74% of Daily Value
Sodium
200mg
9% 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 (36.8g)-25
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS, BERRY MEDLEY earns a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high content of added sugars and saturated fat. Per 100g, this product contains 36.75g of added sugar, which is a significant contributor to its low score. The presence of multiple sweeteners such as sugar, rice syrup, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup further highlights this aspect. Additionally, the product contains 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, primarily from ingredients like dark chocolate and palm kernel oil, which incurs a substantial penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to a further score reduction. While it does receive minor bonuses for its 2.5g of fiber and 5g of protein, and a notable 20% DV for iron, these are insufficient to offset the penalties from its sugar and fat profile. Compared to a generic unbranded sweet snack, this BROOKSIDE product's nutritional profile is similar in its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in brookside crunchy clusters, berry medley actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Iron
This product contributes to daily iron intake, providing 3.6mg per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, for individuals seeking to supplement their iron intake through diverse food choices, this product offers a modest amount. It is important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on this product for micronutrient contributions.
Source of Fiber
BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS contain 2.5g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it does offer a small contribution to daily fiber goals. Consumers should aim for a variety of fiber sources from whole foods, but this product does include ingredients like oats and rice that provide some fiber.
Energy Source
With 475 calories per 100g, this product can provide a quick source of energy. The combination of carbohydrates from sugars and fats makes it calorie-dense. This can be useful for individuals needing a rapid energy boost, such as after intense physical activity, or for those with higher caloric needs. However, the energy comes primarily from added sugars and saturated fats, which should be considered in the context of overall dietary balance.
BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS, BERRY MEDLEY receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and significant saturated fat from dark chocolate and palm kernel oil.
How to eat it
BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS, BERRY MEDLEY is typically consumed as a sweet snack or dessert. Given its calorie and sugar density, it's often eaten in small portions, perhaps as a treat after a meal or a quick pick-me-up. Consumers should be mindful of the serving size to manage intake effectively.
Consider pairing a very small portion with nutrient-dense foods like plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to add protein and fiber.
Use as an occasional garnish for oatmeal or a smoothie bowl rather than a standalone snack to control portion size.
Be aware of the 1.4 oz serving size; a 100g portion (about 2.5 servings) contains significant added sugar.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and prevent melting of the dark chocolate coating.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The presence of milk and soy is declared, indicating potential allergens for sensitive individuals. The ingredient list also includes palm kernel oil, a source of saturated fat, and various forms of sugar, including high fructose corn syrup, which contributes significantly to the added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should be particularly mindful of the high sugar load. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which generally suggests a formulation with ingredients and processes that may detract from overall dietary quality. The use of lecithin (soy) as an emulsifier is common in chocolate products.
Is BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS, BERRY MEDLEY healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 2/100, this product is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugars (36.75g per 100g) and saturated fat (17.5g per 100g), and is classified as ultra-processed. While it offers some iron and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional components.
How does BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS compare to other snack brands?
Compared to a generic unbranded sweet snack, BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar and saturated fat content. When compared to a whole-food snack like a piece of fruit or a handful of almonds, this product contains significantly more added sugar and is ultra-processed, offering fewer micronutrients per calorie.
What is 'cocoa processed with alkali'?
'Cocoa processed with alkali' is a common ingredient in chocolate products. This process, also known as Dutching, reduces the acidity of cocoa, resulting in a milder flavor and darker color. While it can slightly reduce the antioxidant content compared to natural cocoa, it is a standard food processing technique.
What is a reasonable portion size for BROOKSIDE CRUNCHY CLUSTERS?
The declared serving size is 1.4 ounces (approximately 40g). Given its high content of added sugars and saturated fat, adhering to this small portion size is advisable for occasional consumption. Eating larger portions would significantly increase your intake of these components, making it harder to maintain a balanced diet.
Are the fruit juice concentrates a healthy ingredient?
While fruit juice concentrates originate from fruit, in this product, they contribute to the overall sugar content. Concentrates are often used as sweeteners and flavor enhancers, and they lack the fiber found in whole fruits. Their presence here primarily adds to the product's sweetness rather than providing significant whole-fruit benefits.