COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER, FRENCH VANILLA
COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to its nutritional profile.
This creamer contains 19.09g of added sugar per 100g serving.
It provides 13.64g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to its low score.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Use in moderation to limit intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
Scores -33 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
19.09g
38% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (19.1g)-25
Saturated fat (13.6g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER scores 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its significant content of added sugar and saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 19.09g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of 25 points. Additionally, it provides 13.64g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a 15-point penalty. The presence of coconut oil as a primary fat source contributes to this high saturated fat content. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a 10-point penalty. The product also receives a 15-point penalty for being largely composed of empty calories, offering minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like milk, which provides protein, calcium, and vitamin D, COFFEE-MATE offers none of these beneficial nutrients, further highlighting its low nutritional density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in coffee-mate french vanilla flavored coffee creamer, french vanilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Flavorful Addition to Coffee
While not offering significant nutritional benefits, COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER can enhance the taste of coffee for those who enjoy a sweet and creamy profile. The natural and artificial flavors combined with sugar and coconut oil create a distinct French vanilla experience. This can make a plain cup of coffee more palatable for some individuals, potentially reducing the need for other less desirable additions.
Convenient and Shelf-Stable Option
This creamer is a convenient, ready-to-use product that does not require refrigeration until opened, making it suitable for office settings, travel, or situations where fresh dairy is not readily available. Its long shelf life before opening means it can be stored for extended periods, offering a consistent option for flavoring coffee without frequent grocery trips. The individual tubs also provide pre-portioned servings, which can be helpful for consistency.
Dairy-Free for Lactose Intolerance (with caution)
Although it contains sodium caseinate, a milk derivative, this product is often perceived as dairy-free by consumers due to the absence of lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance may find this creamer an acceptable alternative to milk or traditional cream, as casein typically does not trigger lactose-related digestive issues. However, those with a milk allergy should avoid it due to the milk protein content.
COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER is typically used as an additive to hot beverages, primarily coffee. A common portion is one or two small tubs, stirred directly into a cup of coffee. It's often chosen for its sweetness and creamy texture, which can mask the bitterness of coffee. The main pitfall is overconsumption, leading to a high intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
To manage added sugar intake, consider using half a tub or less per cup of coffee, or alternating with unsweetened creamers.
Pair your coffee with a nutrient-dense breakfast like oatmeal with fruit or eggs to balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
If you enjoy the flavor, try diluting it with a splash of unsweetened almond milk or regular milk to reduce the sugar and fat per serving.
For a lower-sugar alternative, explore unsweetened creamers like those from Califia Farms or Silk, which offer various flavors without the added sugar burden.
Use this creamer as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to minimize consistent intake of ultra-processed ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the sodium caseinate in COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER, which is a milk derivative. While it is lactose-free, individuals with a milk allergy should avoid this product due to the presence of milk protein. The high content of added sugar (19.09g per 100g) is a significant concern, particularly for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes. The coconut oil contributes to a high saturated fat content (13.64g per 100g), which may be a consideration for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. The product also contains mono- and diglycerides, common emulsifiers, which are generally recognized as safe but contribute to its ultra-processed classification.
Is COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER is not considered a healthy choice. It is high in added sugar and saturated fat, and provides minimal essential nutrients. Its classification as an ultra-processed food also contributes to its low score.
How does COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER compare to traditional dairy cream?
Compared to traditional dairy cream, COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER has a different nutritional profile. While both can be high in fat, this product contains significant added sugar and lacks the protein and micronutrients found in milk or even some heavier creams. For example, a brand like Horizon Organic Half & Half would offer some dairy protein and calcium, which COFFEE-MATE does not.
What is sodium caseinate in this creamer?
Sodium caseinate is a milk derivative, specifically a milk protein. It is used in COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER as an emulsifier and to provide a creamy texture. While it is generally lactose-free, individuals with a milk allergy should avoid it.
What is a reasonable portion size for this creamer?
A reasonable portion size for COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER is typically one small tub, as indicated by the serving size. However, given its high added sugar and saturated fat content, using even less or reserving it for occasional use would be a more nutritionally sound approach. Moderation is key to managing intake of these components.
Does this creamer contain artificial colors?
Yes, COFFEE-MATE FRENCH VANILLA FLAVORED COFFEE CREAMER contains beta carotene and riboflavin for color. These are commonly used food colorings. While beta carotene can be found naturally, its use here is for aesthetic purposes to give the creamer a specific hue.