FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoiddairyCAFE BUSTELO· 1 K-CUP POD

CAFE BUSTELO SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE FLAVORED COFFEE BEVERAGE MIX K-CUP PODS, SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE

CAFE BUSTELO SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE FLAVORED COFFEE BEVERAGE MIX K-CUP PODS receives a FoodScore of 12/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food with significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat.

  • This product has a FoodScore of 12/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • It contains 15.4g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, this is an ultra-processed food.
  • With 961.54mg of sodium per 100g, it is high in sodium.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage.
  • Scores -21 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
7.69g
27% of Daily Value
Protein
7.69g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
15.4g
31% of Daily Value
Sodium
961.54mg
42% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.7g)+10
Protein (7.7g)+3
Micronutrients (Potassium)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.4g)-20
Saturated fat (26.9g)-15
Sodium (961.5mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 12

CAFE BUSTELO SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE FLAVORED COFFEE BEVERAGE MIX K-CUP PODS scores 12 out of 100, largely driven by its formulation as an ultra-processed product. The significant amount of added sugar, at 15.4g per 100g, incurs a substantial penalty, as does the high content of saturated fat (26.92g per 100g). The presence of ingredients like CORN SYRUP SOLIDS and HYDROGENATED COCONUT OIL contributes to these penalties. While the product does offer some fiber (7.69g) and protein (7.69g), which provide minor bonuses, these are outweighed by the negative factors. The sodium content, at 961.54mg per 100g, also contributes to the low score. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically offers more protein, calcium, and less added sugar and saturated fat, this CAFE BUSTELO product provides a less favorable nutritional profile. The overall composition reflects a beverage mix designed for convenience with a focus on flavor rather than a balanced nutrient contribution.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in cafe bustelo sweet & creamy cafe con leche flavored coffee beverage mix k-cup pods, sweet & creamy cafe con leche actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Fiber

This product contains 7.69g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote regularity. While this is a notable amount for a beverage mix, it's important to consider the overall nutritional context of the product. Including diverse fiber sources from whole foods remains key for a balanced diet.

Contains Some Protein

With 7.69g of protein per 100g, this CAFE BUSTELO product offers a modest amount of protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for satiety. While not a primary protein source, this contribution can be a small part of your daily protein intake, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods throughout the day.

Source of Potassium

This beverage mix provides 723.08mg of potassium per 100g, which is 15% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an important electrolyte that plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. While this product offers some potassium, it is important to obtain this nutrient from a variety of whole food sources like fruits, vegetables, and legumes for broader health benefits.

How to eat it

CAFE BUSTELO SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE K-CUP PODS are typically consumed as a hot beverage, often as a morning coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up. The serving size is one K-Cup pod, which is designed for single use. Due to its sweet and creamy profile, it's often enjoyed on its own.

To reduce added sugar intake, consider alternating with plain coffee or unsweetened tea.
Pairing this beverage with a protein-rich breakfast like eggs or Greek yogurt can help balance overall nutrient intake.
Be mindful of portion sizes; consuming multiple pods throughout the day will increase intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
If you enjoy the flavor, try diluting it with a splash of unsweetened milk to slightly reduce the concentration of added sugars and fats.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. It contains hydrogenated coconut oil, a source of saturated fat, and CORN SYRUP SOLIDS and SUGAR, which contribute to the high added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels should be particularly mindful of the sucralose (non nutritive sweetener) and high added sugar. The product also contains sodium caseinate and whey, indicating it is not suitable for individuals with dairy allergies. The high sodium content (961.54mg per 100g) should be considered by those monitoring their sodium intake.

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Reader questions
Is CAFE BUSTELO SWEET & CREAMY CAFE CON LECHE FLAVORED COFFEE BEVERAGE MIX healthy?
This CAFE BUSTELO product scores 12/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore. It is an ultra-processed food with high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, and a significant sodium content. While it offers some fiber, protein, and potassium, these do not outweigh the less favorable nutritional aspects for regular consumption.
How does CAFE BUSTELO compare to a generic coffee with milk and sugar?
Compared to a generic coffee with milk and sugar prepared at home, this product is likely to have a higher amount of added sugar and saturated fat due to ingredients like corn syrup solids and hydrogenated coconut oil. A homemade version allows for control over sugar and fat types and quantities, often resulting in a more favorable nutritional profile.
What is hydrogenated coconut oil?
Hydrogenated coconut oil is a fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid at room temperature and extend shelf life. In this product, it contributes to the saturated fat content, which is 26.92g per 100g. Diets high in saturated fat can impact cardiovascular health.
How much of this product can I consume daily?
Given its FoodScore of 12/100 and its classification as an ultra-processed food high in added sugar and saturated fat, this product is best consumed in moderation. Limiting it to an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage would align with dietary guidelines for reducing intake of these components.
Does this product contain caffeine?
Yes, this product contains instant coffee as an ingredient, which means it will contain caffeine. The exact amount of caffeine is not provided on the nutrition label, but it is present and contributes to the stimulating effects associated with coffee consumption. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should be aware.
How does this compare to other K-Cup coffee options?
Compared to plain black coffee K-Cups, this CAFE BUSTELO product contains significantly more added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, as it is a flavored beverage mix rather than just coffee. For example, a plain black coffee K-Cup from brands like Green Mountain Coffee Roasters would have 0 calories, sugar, or fat.

Explore more

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Data & references