FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS, CHOCOLATE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score, despite some fiber and calcium content.
This FUDGSICLE product has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
It provides 5.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is its NOVA class 4 status, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, it contains a higher amount of fiber due to added ingredients.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
5.1g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
3.8g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
4.43g
9% of Daily Value
Sodium
114.05mg
5% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.1g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (4.4g)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS, CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by several factors, both positive and negative. On the positive side, the product gains 6 points for its fiber content, providing 5.1g per 100g, and an additional 2 points for its calcium content, contributing 19% of the Daily Value. However, these benefits are offset by penalties. It loses 3 points due to its added sugar content of 4.43g per 100g. The most significant penalty, a deduction of 10 points, comes from its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ingredients like maltodextrin, sorbitol, and polydextrose contribute to its processed nature. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this FUDGSICLE product offers more fiber due to its specific formulation but also contains various additives typical of ultra-processed items.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in fudgsicle, fudge pops, chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This FUDGSICLE product provides 5.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While FUDGSICLE is not a primary source of fiber, it can be a way to add a small amount of this nutrient to your diet, especially when consumed as an occasional treat.
Contributes Calcium
With 253.16mg of calcium per 100g, this product provides 19% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for bone health and various bodily functions. Including sources of calcium in the diet is important, and this FUDGSICLE item can contribute to meeting those needs, particularly for individuals who enjoy frozen desserts.
Lower Calorie Dessert Option
At 101.01 calories per 100g, this product can serve as a relatively lower-calorie dessert option compared to many full-sugar ice creams or other frozen treats. Its formulation with sweeteners like sorbitol and aspartame helps to reduce the overall caloric density while maintaining a sweet taste. This can be beneficial for individuals managing their calorie intake.
FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS, CHOCOLATE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score, despite some fiber and calcium content.
How to eat it
FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS are typically consumed as a frozen dessert or snack. They are often enjoyed straight from the freezer, offering a refreshing and sweet treat. A common portion is one or two pops, providing a quick way to satisfy a craving for chocolate.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing a FUDGSICLE pop with a small serving of fruit, such as berries, for added vitamins and antioxidants.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while lower in calories than some desserts, consuming multiple pops can still add up in terms of added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
For a more balanced snack, combine a FUDGSICLE pop with a source of protein, like a small handful of nuts or a glass of milk, to help with satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This FUDGSICLE product contains several artificial sweeteners, including aspartame and acesulfame potassium. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid aspartame. The product also contains polydextrose and sorbitol, which are sugar alcohols that can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea in some sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in larger quantities. Furthermore, the presence of various gums and emulsifiers like cellulose gum, guar gum, and polysorbate 80 contributes to its ultra-processed nature. Consumers with sensitivities to these additives should be aware. The ingredient list also includes palm oil, a source of saturated fat.
FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS, CHOCOLATE scores 45/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some fiber and calcium, it is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains artificial sweeteners and added sugars. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, but it is not considered a health-promoting food.
How does FUDGSICLE compare to other frozen desserts?
Compared to many full-sugar ice creams or other frozen desserts, FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS, CHOCOLATE is generally lower in calories and added sugar due to the use of artificial sweeteners. For example, a traditional ice cream like Breyers Natural Vanilla would likely have higher calories and significantly more added sugar per serving. However, it is still an ultra-processed product, unlike simpler frozen fruit bars.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in many processed foods. In FUDGSICLE, it contributes to the product's texture and mouthfeel. While generally recognized as safe, it can have a high glycemic index, meaning it can quickly raise blood sugar levels, though its impact is mitigated by other ingredients in this specific formulation.
What is a reasonable portion size for FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS?
The declared serving size for FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS is 2 pops. Sticking to this portion size helps manage intake of added sugars and artificial sweeteners. For most individuals, enjoying one or two pops as an occasional treat aligns with dietary guidelines for discretionary calories.
Can children eat FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS?
Children can consume FUDGSICLE, FUDGE POPS in moderation. Parents should be aware of the artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame potassium, and the potential for digestive upset from sugar alcohols like sorbitol if consumed in large quantities. It's best to offer a variety of snacks, prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods.