FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetCAPRICON· 4 PIECES ABOUT

CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE

CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE scores 19/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.

  • CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE has a FoodScore of 19/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • This product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • A 100g serving contains 31.5g of added sugar, contributing to a significant penalty in its score.
  • Compared to generic unbranded liquorice, this SKU's nutritional profile is largely similar.
  • Due to its high sugar content, consume CAPRICON liquorice in very small portions.
  • Scores +4 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.5g
63% of Daily Value
Sodium
188mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.5g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 19

CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE receives a FoodScore of 19 out of 100, primarily driven by its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 31.5g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial -25 point penalty. The ingredient list highlights multiple forms of sugar, including treacle, molasses, sugar, glucose syrup, and invert sugar, indicating that sweeteners are primary components. As a NOVA class 4 food, it also receives a -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed, reflecting its complex formulation with industrial ingredients and additives like hydrogenated coconut oil and potassium sorbate. Despite these penalties, the product does receive a small bonus of +4 points for its micronutrient contributions, specifically 12% DV for calcium and 20% DV for iron per 100g. However, these positive contributions are insufficient to offset the significant deductions from added sugar and processing. Compared to the generic unbranded version of liquorice, CAPRICON's nutritional breakdown is consistent with what is typically found in this category, showing similar levels of sugar and fat.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in capricon soft eating liquorice actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE provides a notable amount of iron, with 3.6mg per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals meet their daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It's important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on such products for micronutrient intake.

Source of Calcium

This product offers 150mg of calcium per 100g, accounting for 12% of the Daily Value. Calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. While not a dairy product, CAPRICON liquorice contributes to daily calcium intake. Consumers should balance this contribution with other, more nutrient-dense sources of calcium to ensure adequate intake without excessive sugar consumption.

Quick Energy Source

Due to its high sugar content, CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE can provide a rapid source of carbohydrates for quick energy. This can be useful in situations requiring an immediate energy boost, such as before or during intense physical activity. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained, and the product lacks fiber to slow sugar absorption, potentially leading to a rapid rise and fall in blood sugar levels.

How to eat it

CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE is typically consumed as a sweet treat or snack. It is often eaten directly from the package, with common portion sizes varying widely. A key pitfall is overconsumption due to its palatability and lack of satiety.

To manage sugar intake, consider portioning out a small amount (e.g., 1-2 pieces) rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pair with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a small piece of cheese, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Enjoy CAPRICON liquorice as an occasional treat, rather than a regular snack, to limit added sugar in your diet.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE, which is 31.5g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes wheat flour and glucose syrup (from wheat), indicating it contains gluten, which is relevant for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The presence of hydrogenated coconut oil contributes to the saturated fat content. Additionally, potassium sorbate is used as a preservative, and while generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to food additives.

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Reader questions
Is CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE healthy?
CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE scores 19/100, categorized as 'Avoid.' This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (31.5g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some iron and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by the significant sugar load, making it not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE compare to other liquorice brands?
Compared to other popular liquorice brands like Twizzlers or Red Vines, CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed sweet. Most liquorice products in the US market share these characteristics, meaning they are generally high in added sugars and low in beneficial nutrients.
What is 'treacle' in the ingredient list?
Treacle is a type of syrup, similar to molasses, and is primarily composed of sugar and water. In CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE, it serves as a significant source of the product's sweetness and contributes to the overall added sugar content. Its inclusion, along with other sugars, indicates a high concentration of sweeteners.
What is a reasonable portion size for CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE?
Given its high added sugar content, a reasonable portion size for CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE would be very small, perhaps 1-2 pieces occasionally. The serving size is listed as 4 pieces, but even this contributes a substantial amount of added sugar. Moderation is key to minimize its impact on your overall dietary sugar intake.
Does this liquorice contain real liquorice extract?
Yes, the ingredient list for CAPRICON SOFT EATING LIQUORICE explicitly includes liquorice extract. This is the component responsible for the characteristic flavor of liquorice. It also contains anise seed oil, which further enhances the distinct taste profile of the product.

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Data & references