DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugars, which significantly outweighs any potential benefits from the fruit.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar content.
Contains 45g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients like Vitamin C or potassium.
Compared to generic preserves, this product has a similar nutritional profile.
Scores -32 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45g
90% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (45g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY scores 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its significant amount of added sugars, totaling 45g per 100g. This contributes to a high caloric density of 250 calories per 100g with virtually no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients. The ingredient list highlights the presence of sugar, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup as primary components after marion blackberries, indicating multiple sources of concentrated sweeteners. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. This classification reflects its formulation with industrial ingredients and multiple processing steps, which typically results in a food product that is far removed from its original whole food components. Compared to a generic unbranded version of blackberry preserves, DICKINSON'S offers a very similar nutritional profile, characterized by a high sugar load and minimal nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in dickinson's pure marion preserves, blackberry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY offers a quick source of energy, primarily from its carbohydrate content. With 250 calories per 100g, it can contribute to immediate energy needs. This can be useful for individuals requiring a rapid calorie boost, such as athletes during prolonged activity or those needing to quickly increase their caloric intake. However, this energy comes almost entirely from added sugars, which should be considered in the context of overall dietary guidelines.
Enhances Flavor in Meals
While not a nutritional powerhouse, this product can enhance the palatability of certain foods. Its sweet and fruity profile can make plain items like toast or oatmeal more appealing. For individuals who find it challenging to consume certain nutritious foods, a small amount of preserves might encourage intake. The marion blackberries provide a distinct flavor, which can be a pleasant addition to a balanced meal, though its nutritional contribution is minimal.
Convenient and Shelf-Stable
DICKINSON'S preserves offer a convenient and shelf-stable option for adding a sweet component to meals. Its long shelf life and ease of storage make it a practical pantry staple. This can be beneficial for those seeking readily available ingredients that do not require refrigeration until opened. The product's formulation ensures consistent quality and taste over time, making it a reliable choice for its intended use as a condiment.
DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugars, which significantly outweighs any potential benefits from the fruit.
How to eat it
Preserves are typically consumed as a spread on toast, bagels, or muffins, or mixed into yogurt or oatmeal. A common serving size is 1 tablespoon, which provides a concentrated burst of sweetness and fruit flavor. Due to its high sugar content, moderation is key when incorporating this product into your diet.
Pair with whole-grain toast or crackers to add some fiber and slow down sugar absorption.
Use a small amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon) to flavor plain Greek yogurt, adding sweetness without excessive sugar.
Consider using it as a glaze for lean proteins like chicken or pork, balancing the sweetness with savory elements.
For a lower sugar alternative, opt for fresh or frozen blackberries, which provide fiber and micronutrients.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY is its high content of added sugars, specifically sugar, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution due to its potential to cause rapid spikes in blood glucose. The product is also ultra-processed, which means it contains ingredients that have undergone significant industrial modification. While generally safe for consumption, individuals sensitive to highly processed foods may wish to limit intake. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but consumers should always review the full ingredient list for personal sensitivities.
Is DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY healthy?
DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice. It contains 45g of added sugar per 100g and provides no significant protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients. While it offers flavor, its nutritional density is very low.
How does DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY compare to other brands?
Compared to other popular preserve brands like Smucker's or Welch's, DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar content. Many conventional preserves in the US market are formulated with comparable amounts of sugar and sweeteners, offering little nutritional distinction between brands.
What is 'high fructose corn syrup' and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch, commonly used in processed foods and beverages. It provides sweetness and helps with texture and preservation. In DICKINSON'S preserves, it contributes to the overall high sugar content, alongside sugar and corn syrup, enhancing the product's sweetness and shelf stability.
What is a reasonable portion size for these preserves?
A reasonable portion size is typically 1 tablespoon (approximately 20g), which aligns with the serving size on the label. Given the high added sugar content, limiting intake to this amount or less per day is advisable to manage overall sugar consumption within dietary guidelines.
Can I use these preserves in baking or cooking?
Yes, DICKINSON'S PURE MARION PRESERVES, BLACKBERRY can be used in baking or cooking to add flavor and sweetness. It works well in recipes for tarts, pastries, or as a glaze for meats. However, remember that using it in recipes will contribute to the total added sugar content of the dish.