GREENWISE BANANA BRAN MINI MUFFINS receive a FoodScore of 21/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their **high added sugar content** and ultra-processed nature.
This product scores 21/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore guidelines.
A serving provides 5.4g of fiber, contributing positively to daily intake.
With 20.5g of added sugar per 100g, this is a significant source of added sugars.
Classified as NOVA 4, these muffins are ultra-processed, unlike a generic whole-grain equivalent.
Consider these muffins as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -26 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
5.4g
19% of Daily Value
Protein
5.36g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
20.5g
41% of Daily Value
Sodium
419.64mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.4g)+6
Protein (5.4g)+1
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (20.5g)-25
Sodium (419.6mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 21
GREENWISE BANANA BRAN MINI MUFFINS earned a FoodScore of 21 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the high amount of added sugar, contributing a significant -25 penalty. At 20.5g per 100g, this product contains a substantial quantity of sweeteners like brown cane sugar. Additionally, its classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs a -10 penalty. While the muffins do contain whole wheat flour and wheat bran, which contribute to a fiber bonus of +6 (5.4g per 100g), and a small protein bonus of +1 (5.4g per 100g), these positive aspects are largely overshadowed. The sodium content, at 419.64mg per 100g, also contributes a minor -1 penalty. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically have less added sugar and be less processed, the GREENWISE muffins fall short due to their formulation choices, including ingredients like expeller pressed soybean oil and various leavening agents.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in greenwise banana bran mini muffins, banana bran actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
These GREENWISE muffins provide 5.4g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting overall gut function. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also help you feel fuller, potentially aiding in appetite management. While not a primary source, the fiber content here is a notable positive aspect.
Convenient Snack Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy snack, these mini muffins offer a convenient option. Their pre-portioned size can be helpful for on-the-go consumption or when a small, sweet treat is desired. The presence of bananas and whole wheat flour provides some basic nutrients, making them a more substantial choice than some other highly refined snacks. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when integrating them into a regular diet.
Energy Boost from Carbohydrates
The muffins provide 258.93 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates, offering a quick source of energy. This can be useful for individuals needing a rapid energy supply, such as before or after light physical activity. The combination of sugars and starches provides both quick and sustained energy release. However, it's important to be mindful of the added sugar content when relying on this product for energy.
GREENWISE BANANA BRAN MINI MUFFINS receive a FoodScore of 21/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
These mini muffins are typically consumed as a quick breakfast item or a snack. A common portion is four muffins, as indicated by the serving size. Due to their sweet profile, they are often eaten on their own or paired with a beverage.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair these muffins with a source of protein like plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to create a more balanced snack.
Consider these as an occasional treat rather than a daily breakfast item due to their added sugar and sodium content.
If you enjoy muffins, try making your own at home using whole grains, less added sugar, and incorporating fruits for natural sweetness to have more control over ingredients.
Portion control is key; stick to the recommended serving size of four muffins to manage calorie and sugar intake effectively.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that GREENWISE BANANA BRAN MINI MUFFINS contain wheat, eggs, milk, and soy, as indicated by the ingredient list. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which means it contains ingredients and additives not typically found in home kitchens, such as food starch-modified and xanthan gum. For those monitoring their sugar intake, particularly individuals with diabetes, the high amount of added sugar (20.5g per 100g) is a significant consideration. The sodium content (419.64mg per 100g) should also be noted by those on sodium-restricted diets. While these ingredients are generally recognized as safe, their cumulative effect in an ultra-processed food warrants consideration for overall dietary health.
These muffins received a FoodScore of 21/100, categorizing them as 'Avoid.' This is primarily due to their high added sugar content (20.5g per 100g) and being an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). While they offer some fiber, they are not considered a healthy staple for regular consumption.
How do GREENWISE BANANA BRAN MINI MUFFINS compare to other muffins?
Compared to a generic whole-grain muffin made at home, GREENWISE muffins typically contain more added sugar and are more processed. For example, a homemade muffin might use less brown cane sugar and avoid ingredients like food starch-modified. When compared to a brand like Entenmann's Little Bites, the nutritional profile can vary, but both are generally considered ultra-processed snacks with significant added sugars.
What is 'expeller pressed soybean oil' in the ingredients?
Expeller pressed soybean oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from soybeans using mechanical pressure, rather than chemical solvents. While it's a common ingredient in many processed foods, it contributes to the overall fat content of the muffins. It's a source of polyunsaturated fats, but its presence in an ultra-processed food is a factor in the overall FoodScore.
How many mini muffins should I eat in a day?
The recommended serving size is 4 mini muffins. Given the product's FoodScore of 21/100 and its high added sugar content, it's advisable to consume these in moderation. Limiting them to an occasional treat rather than a daily item can help manage your intake of added sugars and calories.
Are these muffins suitable for a high-fiber diet?
While these muffins do provide 5.4g of fiber per 100g, which is a positive contribution, their high added sugar and ultra-processed nature mean they are not an ideal primary source for a high-fiber diet. Better sources of fiber include whole fruits, vegetables, legumes, and less processed whole grains.
Do these muffins contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes 'unbleached unbromated whole wheat flour' as a primary grain. This contributes to the product's fiber content. However, it also contains 'unbleached unbromated enriched wheat flour,' which is a refined grain. The presence of both indicates it's not exclusively a whole grain product.