ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL
ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugar.
ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor).
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Each serving contains 2.33g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its lower score.
This beverage provides 10% DV for calcium and 35% DV for Vitamin A per 100g serving.
Consider this beverage as an occasional alternative to dairy milk, not a direct nutritional substitute.
Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
0.42g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.33g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
45.83mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 44/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product does offer some micronutrient bonuses, specifically +4 points for its contributions of Vitamin A (35% DV) and Vitamin B12 (47% DV) per 100g, these are not enough to offset the processing penalty and other nutritional aspects. The ingredient list includes cane sugar, contributing 2.33g of added sugar per 100g, which is a factor in its overall nutritional profile. Compared to a generic dairy milk equivalent, which typically offers higher protein and a broader range of naturally occurring micronutrients without being ultra-processed, this ELMHURST HARVEST product presents a different nutritional profile. Its low protein content (0.42g per 100g) and minimal fiber (0.4g per 100g) also contribute to its lower score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in elmhurst harvest premium pistachio beverage, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fortified Vitamins
This pistachio beverage is fortified with several vitamins, providing a notable amount of Vitamin A and Vitamin B12. Each 100g serving contributes 35% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Additionally, it provides 47% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12, a nutrient crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals following plant-based diets who may have limited dietary sources of B12.
Calcium Contribution
ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL is a source of calcium, with 125mg per 100g serving, which accounts for 10% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. For those seeking plant-based alternatives to dairy, fortified beverages like this one can help contribute to daily calcium intake, supporting overall skeletal health.
Low in Saturated Fat
This pistachio beverage is naturally low in saturated fat, containing 0g per 100g serving. A diet low in saturated fat is generally recommended for supporting cardiovascular health. For individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fats, this product can be a suitable option as part of a balanced dietary pattern, especially when used as an alternative to higher-fat dairy products or other beverages.
ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
Plant-based beverages like ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL are commonly consumed as a dairy milk alternative. They are often used in cereal, coffee, smoothies, or as a standalone drink. A typical serving size is 1 cup (240ml), which is slightly more than the 100g nutrient reference.
Use this pistachio beverage in smoothies with fruits and a protein source like nuts or seeds to enhance its nutritional value.
Consider it as an occasional base for oatmeal or cereal, but be mindful of the added sugar content if consuming regularly.
Pair with a source of dietary fiber like whole grains or fruit to help balance the impact of its added sugar.
When using in coffee or tea, be aware of the added sugar and consider unsweetened plant-based milks for daily use.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for ELMHURST HARVEST PREMIUM PISTACHIO BEVERAGE, ORIGINAL includes several gums such as xanthan gum, guar gum, and gellan gum. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems, such as those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from these ingredients. The product also contains cane sugar, contributing to its added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for this when incorporating the beverage into their diet. As this product contains pistachios, individuals with tree nut allergies should avoid it.
Is ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original healthy?
ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. It is an ultra-processed beverage with added sugar. While it is fortified with some vitamins like A and B12, and provides calcium, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's best consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.
How does ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage compare to other plant milks?
Compared to unsweetened plant milks like Silk Unsweetened Almondmilk, ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original has added sugar (2.33g per 100g) and a higher calorie count. Its protein content (0.42g per 100g) is also generally lower than some fortified soy milks. It offers similar fortification for calcium and vitamins A and B12 to many other plant-based beverages.
What is 'pistachio flavor with other natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
The term 'pistachio flavor with other natural flavors' indicates that the product contains flavorings derived from natural sources, some of which may be from pistachios and others from different natural ingredients. These are added to enhance the overall taste profile of the beverage, contributing to its specific pistachio flavor.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pistachio beverage?
A reasonable portion size for ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original is typically 1 cup (240ml). This aligns with standard serving sizes for beverages. Being mindful of this portion size helps manage the intake of added sugars and calories, especially if consumed regularly.
Can this beverage be used in cooking or baking?
Yes, ELMHURST HARVEST Premium Pistachio Beverage, Original can be used in cooking and baking as a dairy-free alternative. Its slightly sweet profile and creamy texture can work well in recipes for smoothies, sauces, or desserts. However, consider the added sugar content when adjusting other sweeteners in your recipes.