ELMHURST NATURALS, ALL NATURAL BANANA JUICE CONCENTRATE, NATURAL BANANA, NATURAL BANANA
ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as a processed beverage and its lack of significant fiber or protein.
This ELMHURST NATURALS product scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
It contains 0g of added sugar, aligning with recommendations for limiting caloric sweeteners.
As a NOVA 3 processed beverage, it offers less nutritional density than whole fruit.
Compared to plain water, it provides some electrolytes but lacks fiber and protein.
Consider this beverage for hydration with a touch of fruit flavor, rather than a fruit serving.
Scores +13 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
2.99mg
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
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate achieves a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects its composition as a processed beverage, categorized as NOVA 3. While it contains no added sugar, which is a positive aspect given dietary guidelines to limit such ingredients, it also provides 0g of protein and 0g of fiber per 100g. The primary ingredient after water is all natural banana juice concentrate, which contributes to its caloric content (20 calories per 100g) and some micronutrients like potassium and magnesium, but without the beneficial fiber found in whole bananas. The product includes potassium citrate and magnesium citrate, which are sources of electrolytes, and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). However, its processed nature and the absence of key macronutrients like fiber and protein prevent it from scoring higher. Compared to plain water, it offers flavor and some electrolytes but does not replace the nutritional benefits of whole, unprocessed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in elmhurst naturals, all natural banana juice concentrate, natural banana, natural banana actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Electrolytes for Hydration
This ELMHURST NATURALS beverage contains potassium citrate and magnesium citrate, which contribute to its electrolyte content. Potassium and magnesium are essential minerals that play roles in fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. While not a primary source of these nutrients, it can contribute to daily intake, especially for individuals seeking to replenish electrolytes after light activity or as part of general hydration. It offers 238.87mg of potassium (5% DV) and 23mg of magnesium (5% DV) per 100g serving.
Zero Added Sugars
One notable benefit of ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate is its absence of added sugars. This aligns with dietary recommendations to reduce intake of caloric sweeteners, which can contribute to excess calorie consumption without providing significant nutritional value. For individuals monitoring their sugar intake, this product offers a flavored beverage option that relies on the natural sweetness from banana juice concentrate rather than added sweeteners, making it a suitable choice for those looking to limit discretionary sugar intake.
Source of Vitamin C
This product provides a modest amount of Vitamin C, with 4% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its antioxidant properties and its role in immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption. While not a high-potency source, it can contribute to your daily vitamin C intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. Including beverages like this can be a way to incrementally boost micronutrient intake without significant added sugars.
ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as a processed beverage and its lack of significant fiber or protein.
How to eat it
ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate is typically consumed as a refreshing beverage. Its banana flavor makes it a versatile option for those seeking an alternative to plain water or other sweetened drinks. A common serving size is 12 fluid ounces (355ml), which provides a flavorful hydration option.
Enjoy this banana juice concentrate chilled on its own as a refreshing drink.
Use it as a flavorful liquid base in smoothies, blending with plain yogurt or protein powder to add macronutrients.
Dilute with sparkling water for a lighter, effervescent banana-flavored drink without adding sugar.
Pair with a source of fiber and protein, such as a handful of nuts or a hard-boiled egg, to create a more balanced snack or mini-meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally well-tolerated. The ingredient list includes citric acid, which some individuals with sensitive stomachs might find mildly irritating in large quantities, though it is a common food additive. As a processed beverage (NOVA 3), it lacks the fiber of whole fruit, which means it may not provide the same satiety or digestive benefits. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies should always review the full ingredient list, though no major allergens like milk, soy, or tree nuts are declared for this specific formulation. There are no ingredients in this product that typically pose significant concerns for specific populations like children or those with diabetes, given its zero added sugar content.
Is ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate healthy?
ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate scores 45/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It's free of added sugars and provides some electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. However, as a processed juice concentrate, it lacks the fiber found in whole bananas, which is important for digestive health and satiety. It can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you're looking for a flavored beverage without added sweeteners.
How does ELMHURST NATURALS compare to other fruit juices?
Compared to many conventional fruit juices, ELMHURST NATURALS stands out for having no added sugar. Many popular brands, like Tropicana orange juice, often contain significant amounts of added sugars. While it still lacks the fiber of whole fruit, its formulation focuses on natural banana flavor and some electrolytes, making it a potentially better choice for those monitoring sugar intake.
What is 'all natural banana juice concentrate'?
All natural banana juice concentrate is a form of banana juice where most of the water has been removed. This process makes it more concentrated in flavor and nutrients, but it also means it's a processed ingredient. While it retains the natural sugars and some micronutrients from bananas, it does not provide the dietary fiber that whole bananas offer. It's used here to provide banana flavor and some sweetness.
What is a reasonable portion size for this banana juice?
A standard serving size is 12 fluid ounces (355ml). This provides 70 calories and 0g of added sugar. While it's fine to enjoy this amount, remember that even without added sugar, juice concentrates can contribute calories. For optimal hydration and nutrient intake, consider alternating with plain water and consuming whole fruits for fiber.
Can I use this in recipes?
Yes, ELMHURST NATURALS All Natural Banana Juice Concentrate can be a versatile ingredient in recipes. Its banana flavor makes it suitable for smoothies, mocktails, or even as a liquid component in some baked goods where you want a natural banana essence. It can also be used to flavor plain yogurt or oatmeal.