FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageDEL MONTE· 1 CAN

DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE

DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its significant **added sugar** content, which is the primary factor driving its low score.

  • This DEL MONTE product receives a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it should be avoided.
  • It contains 8.75g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 3, meaning it is a processed food.
  • It provides 28% DV of Vitamin C per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
  • Consider this beverage for occasional consumption rather than a daily staple.
  • Scores -10 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.42g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
8.75g
18% of Daily Value
Sodium
2mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.8g)-10
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 22

DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE receives a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its nutritional profile, particularly the presence of added sugar. The product contains 8.75g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. This amount contributes to a high calorie density relative to its nutrient content, leading to an 'empty calories' penalty of -15 points. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 3 product, indicating it is processed, results in an additional -5 point penalty. While the product does offer a bonus of +2 points for its micronutrient content, specifically Vitamin C (28% DV per 100g), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. The ingredient list includes sugar as the third item, confirming its significant presence. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this DEL MONTE juice drink provides minimal beneficial nutrients while contributing a notable amount of added sugars.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in del monte juice drink, pineapple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Vitamin C

DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE is a source of Vitamin C, providing 28% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. While not a primary source of a wide range of vitamins and minerals, this product can contribute to your daily Vitamin C intake, which is important for overall health. Consuming beverages that offer some micronutrient benefits can be a part of a varied diet.

Hydration Support

Like most beverages, this DEL MONTE juice drink contributes to overall hydration. Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for numerous bodily functions, including temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and organ function. While plain water is the optimal choice for hydration, flavored drinks can sometimes encourage fluid intake for individuals who struggle to drink enough water. However, it's important to balance this with the product's sugar content.

Convenient Option for Specific Needs

This product offers a convenient and ready-to-drink option for specific situations where a quick source of fluid and some carbohydrates might be desired. For instance, it could be used post-exercise for rapid carbohydrate replenishment, though more balanced options exist. Its shelf-stable nature also makes it a practical choice for situations where refrigeration is not immediately available, providing a readily accessible beverage.

How to eat it

DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE is typically consumed as a standalone beverage, often chilled, and can be found in lunchboxes or as a quick refreshment. The serving size is one can, which is a common portion for single-serve drinks. A common pitfall is consuming it as a primary source of hydration throughout the day due to its added sugar content.

To reduce added sugar intake, consider diluting this juice drink with an equal part of plain water or sparkling water.
Pair this beverage with a meal that is rich in fiber and protein, such as a salad with lean protein, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Use this DEL MONTE juice drink as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage choice to manage overall sugar consumption.
For a more balanced option, consider making your own pineapple-infused water with fresh pineapple slices and plain water.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE relates to its added sugar content. The ingredient list clearly shows 'sugar' as a main component, contributing significantly to the caloric load without providing substantial fiber or protein to mitigate its impact. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be particularly mindful of their intake. While the product contains citric acid and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), these are generally recognized as safe and do not pose significant concerns for most consumers. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list, making it suitable for individuals avoiding common allergens like dairy or gluten.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER
Score82
Very good
LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW
Score82
Very good
WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER
Score82
Very good
GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT
Score80
Very good
INCA'S GOLD YELLOW MACA ORGANIC GELATINIZED POWDER, YELLOW MACA
Score80
Very good
VEGA DRINK MIX, MINT LEMONADE
Score79
Reader questions
Is DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE healthy?
DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE scores 22/100, which falls into the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (8.75g per 100g) and its classification as a processed beverage. While it provides Vitamin C, it lacks other significant nutrients like fiber or protein, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
How does DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE compare to other fruit juices?
Compared to 100% fruit juices, DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE contains added sugar, whereas 100% juices derive their sugar solely from fruit. For example, a pure pineapple juice like Dole 100% Pineapple Juice would not have 'sugar' listed as an ingredient. This product is more akin to a fruit-flavored drink rather than a pure juice, often containing more added sugars and less overall fruit content than 100% juice options.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' in DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as fruits, vegetables, or spices. These are added to enhance the taste profile of the product. While derived from natural sources, they are still processed ingredients and contribute to the product's NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
How much DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE can I drink daily?
Given its high added sugar content, it is advisable to consume DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE in moderation and infrequently. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of daily calories. A single serving of this drink contributes significantly to that limit, so daily consumption is not recommended for a balanced diet.
Can I use this juice drink in recipes?
Yes, DEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE can be used in recipes where a sweet, pineapple flavor is desired, such as in marinades, smoothies, or cocktails. However, be mindful of the additional sugar it will contribute to your dish. Consider adjusting other sweetening agents in your recipe to account for the sugar already present in the drink.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll Del Monte SKUs Competitor · 82/100Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Competitor · 82/100LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headDEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Head-to-headDEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE vs. LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headDEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE vs. WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER Head-to-headDEL MONTE JUICE DRINK, PINEAPPLE vs. GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT

Data & references