FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorsnackHALO TOP· 2/3 cup

HALO TOP CANDY BAR DAIRY-FREE FROZEN DESSERT, CANDY BAR

HALO TOP CANDY BAR DAIRY-FREE FROZEN DESSERT scores 32/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant amount of added sugar.

  • This HALO TOP frozen dessert has a FoodScore of 32/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • It contains 7.8g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to whole-food alternatives like nuts or fruit, it offers minimal micronutrients.
  • Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
  • Scores -9 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
4.44g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7.8g
16% of Daily Value
Sodium
138.89mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (7.8g)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 32

HALO TOP CANDY BAR DAIRY-FREE FROZEN DESSERT receives a FoodScore of 32 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A primary factor in this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The ingredient list includes multiple forms of sugar, such as sugar, corn syrup, and tapioca syrup, contributing to 7.8g of added sugar per 100g, another major penalty. While the product contains some protein (4.44g per 100g) from sources like fava bean protein concentrate and pea protein isolate, it provides no fiber. Micronutrient content is minimal, with only 7% DV for iron and 1% DV for potassium and calcium. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, this HALO TOP product offers a less nutrient-dense option with a higher degree of processing.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in halo top candy bar dairy-free frozen dessert, candy bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Lower-Calorie Dessert Option

For individuals managing calorie intake, this HALO TOP frozen dessert offers a lower-calorie alternative to traditional ice cream or candy bars. At 133.33 calories per 100g, it can fit into a calorie-controlled diet when consumed in moderation. This allows for occasional enjoyment of a dessert-like treat without significantly impacting daily caloric goals, especially when compared to higher-calorie options.

Dairy-Free for Dietary Restrictions

This product is formulated with coconut milk as its base, making it suitable for individuals following a dairy-free diet due to allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle choices. It provides an option for those who cannot consume traditional dairy-based frozen desserts. The use of plant-based proteins like fava bean protein concentrate further supports its dairy-free composition, offering a dessert that aligns with specific dietary needs.

Source of Plant-Based Protein

HALO TOP CANDY BAR DAIRY-FREE FROZEN DESSERT contains 4.44g of protein per 100g, derived from fava bean protein concentrate and pea protein isolate. While not a primary protein source, this contribution can be a small addition to overall daily protein intake, particularly for those seeking plant-based options. This can be beneficial in supporting satiety when consumed as part of a balanced snack or dessert.

How to eat it

This HALO TOP frozen dessert is typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert. A common portion is 2/3 cup, which is the declared serving size. It is often eaten straight from the container as a standalone snack.

To enhance satiety, pair a small portion of this dessert with a fiber-rich food like fresh berries or a handful of nuts.
Consider this product as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and added sugar content.
Portion control is key; stick to the recommended 2/3 cup serving size to manage calorie and added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

This HALO TOP product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to monitor. The presence of erythritol and inulin, both sugar alcohols and fibers, may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in larger quantities. It also contains dry roasted peanuts and peanut oil, indicating a peanut allergen risk. Individuals with severe peanut allergies should exercise caution. The product is ultra-processed, meaning it contains ingredients like natural flavors, cellulose gel, and cellulose gum, which are common in highly processed foods and may be a concern for those aiming for a whole-food diet.

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Reader questions
Is HALO TOP CANDY BAR DAIRY-FREE FROZEN DESSERT healthy?
This HALO TOP frozen dessert has a FoodScore of 32/100, classifying it as 'Poor.' While it is lower in calories than some traditional ice creams and is dairy-free, it is an ultra-processed food with 7.8g of added sugar per 100g. It offers minimal essential micronutrients, making it a less nutrient-dense choice for regular consumption.
How does HALO TOP compare to other frozen desserts?
Compared to a traditional full-fat, full-sugar ice cream like Ben & Jerry's, HALO TOP typically offers fewer calories and less total fat and added sugar per serving. However, it is still an ultra-processed product with a similar ingredient complexity. For a more nutrient-dense dessert, options like fruit-based sorbets or homemade fruit and yogurt parfaits would be preferable.
What is erythritol, and is it safe?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in this product. It provides sweetness with very few calories and does not raise blood sugar levels. Generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort like bloating or gas if consumed in large amounts. It is a common ingredient in many 'light' or 'sugar-free' products.
Can I eat an entire pint of this HALO TOP dessert?
While the entire pint may seem like a low-calorie option, consuming the whole container would mean ingesting 26.3g of added sugar and 416.67 calories. This exceeds the recommended daily limits for added sugar for most adults. It is best to stick to the recommended serving size of 2/3 cup to manage your intake of added sugars and calories.
Is this product suitable for people with diabetes?
This product contains erythritol, which does not impact blood sugar. However, it also contains 7.8g of added sugar per 100g from ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and tapioca syrup. Individuals with diabetes should consider the total carbohydrate and added sugar content per serving and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine if it fits into their dietary plan.

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Data & references