DEL MONTE, LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY- BANANA FLAVORED GEL, STRAWBERRY- BANANA FLAVORED GEL
DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY-BANANA FLAVORED GEL scores 21/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant added sugar content.
This DEL MONTE product receives a FoodScore of 21/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 6.01g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is considered ultra-processed, which negatively impacts its nutritional value.
Compared to generic plain peaches, this product offers less fiber and more added sugar.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular fruit serving due to its formulation.
Scores -20 points above the fruit category average (41/100 across 295 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
6.01g
12% of Daily Value
Sodium
12.03mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.0g)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 21
DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY-BANANA FLAVORED GEL receives a FoodScore of 21 out of 100, primarily due to its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food and its added sugar content. The product contains 6.01g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -6 points. Being an ultra-processed item, it also receives a -10 point penalty. Furthermore, the product is penalized -15 points for empty calories, indicating a low density of beneficial nutrients relative to its caloric content. While it does receive a small bonus of +2 points for its Vitamin C content (16% DV), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Ingredients like sucralose and natural and artificial flavor contribute to its ultra-processed classification. Compared to generic unbranded peaches, which would typically score much higher, this DEL MONTE product has significantly more added sugar and a more complex ingredient list, diminishing its nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in del monte, lite diced peaches, strawberry- banana flavored gel, strawberry- banana flavored gel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin C
This product provides 16% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g serving. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune system function and as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage. While not a primary source, it can contribute to your daily intake, especially when other fruit options are not available. It supports various bodily processes, including collagen formation.
Convenient Fruit Option
DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES in gel offers a convenient and shelf-stable way to consume peaches, particularly when fresh fruit is not readily accessible or practical. Its individual packaging makes it easy to transport and consume on the go. This can be useful for individuals seeking a quick fruit-like snack or a component for packed lunches, helping to meet some daily fruit intake recommendations, albeit with added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Hydration Support
Given that water is the primary ingredient, this product contributes to overall hydration. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for numerous bodily functions, including temperature regulation and nutrient transport. While not a substitute for plain water, consuming foods with high water content can help supplement daily fluid intake, especially for those who struggle to drink enough water throughout the day.
DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY-BANANA FLAVORED GEL scores 21/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant added sugar content.
How to eat it
DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY-BANANA FLAVORED GEL is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack or a light dessert. It's often packed in lunchboxes or eaten directly from the cup. The serving size is 1 cup.
To enhance the nutritional profile, pair this product with a source of protein and fiber, such as plain Greek yogurt or a handful of unsalted nuts.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily fruit serving due to its added sugar and artificial ingredients.
For a more balanced snack, drain the gel and combine the peaches with fresh berries or a small portion of cottage cheese to increase nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener, which some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet. It also includes carmine for color, an ingredient derived from insects that some vegetarians or individuals with specific dietary restrictions may wish to avoid. The presence of natural and artificial flavor and a gum blend (dextrose, gellan, xanthan, and locust bean gums) indicates a highly processed food. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives or those looking to minimize their intake of ultra-processed foods should consider these ingredients. While generally recognized as safe, a diet high in ultra-processed foods is associated with less favorable health outcomes.
Is DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES, STRAWBERRY-BANANA FLAVORED GEL healthy?
This DEL MONTE product scores 21/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally dense choice for regular consumption. It is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains added sugars and artificial ingredients. While it offers some Vitamin C, its overall nutritional profile is low compared to whole, unprocessed fruits.
How does DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES compare to generic canned peaches?
Compared to generic canned peaches in light syrup, this DEL MONTE product often contains similar amounts of added sugar but introduces artificial sweeteners like sucralose and artificial flavors. Generic canned peaches, especially those packed in water or 100% juice, generally have a simpler ingredient list and may be a slightly better choice if fresh peaches are unavailable.
What is carmine, and why is it in this product?
Carmine is a red pigment used as a food coloring, derived from cochineal insects. It is included in DEL MONTE LITE DICED PEACHES to provide the strawberry-banana flavored gel with a vibrant red color. While safe for consumption, some individuals, particularly vegetarians or those with certain allergies, may choose to avoid products containing carmine.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 cup, which is the content of one individual container. Given its nutritional profile, consuming one serving occasionally as part of a balanced diet is appropriate. Regular or multiple daily servings would contribute significantly to added sugar intake.
Can this product be used in recipes?
While primarily designed as a ready-to-eat snack, the diced peaches could theoretically be incorporated into desserts or fruit salads. However, the presence of the flavored gel and artificial sweeteners might alter the taste and texture of recipes. For cooking, plain canned or fresh peaches are generally more versatile.
How does this compare to Dole Fruit Bowls?
Similar to Dole Fruit Bowls, this DEL MONTE product offers a convenient, shelf-stable fruit option. Both brands often feature fruit in flavored gels or light syrups, which typically include added sugars and artificial ingredients. When comparing, it's important to check the specific ingredient list and nutritional facts for added sugar and artificial components, as formulations can vary between specific SKUs.