FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentdairyHALO TOP· 1 pop

HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS, MINT CHIP

HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS score 47/100 (Decent). Its **ultra-processed nature** and **added sugar content** are the primary factors preventing a higher score, despite notable fiber and protein.

  • This product receives a FoodScore of 47/100, categorized as Decent.
  • It provides a good source of fiber, with 6.61g per 100g serving.
  • A significant penalty comes from its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is ultra-processed.
  • Compared to generic dairy ice cream, HALO TOP offers more fiber and protein but is still ultra-processed.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
  • Scores +14 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
6.61g
24% of Daily Value
Protein
7.89g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7.9g
16% of Daily Value
Sodium
33.03mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.6g)+8
Protein (7.9g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.9g)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 47

HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS achieved a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the Decent category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its fiber content, providing 6.61g per 100g, and its protein content of 7.89g per 100g. It also receives credit for micronutrients, specifically calcium (17% DV) and an exceptionally high amount of Vitamin A (1522% DV) per 100g. However, significant deductions are applied due to its added sugar content of 7.9g per 100g, which contributes to a less favorable nutritional profile. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, resulting in a substantial penalty. Ingredients like inulin contribute to the fiber content, while erythritol and stevia leaf extract are used as alternative sweeteners. Compared to a generic dairy ice cream, HALO TOP aims to offer a lower-calorie, higher-fiber alternative, but its processing level remains a key consideration.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in halo top mint chip light ice cream pops, mint chip actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Digestive Health with Fiber

This HALO TOP product contains 6.61g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet, known for supporting digestive regularity and overall gut health. The presence of inulin, a type of soluble fiber, further enhances this benefit. Including foods with fiber can help promote satiety and contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may be helpful for managing calorie intake.

Contributes to Protein Intake

With 7.89g of protein per 100g, these HALO TOP pops offer a notable amount of protein for a frozen dessert. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in various bodily functions. Incorporating protein-rich foods into your diet can help with satiety and support overall metabolic health. This product can be a way to add some protein to a snack, especially for those looking to increase their intake from diverse sources.

Source of Calcium and Vitamin A

This product is a good source of calcium, providing 17% of the Daily Value per 100g, and an excellent source of Vitamin A, with 1522% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, while Vitamin A is vital for vision and immune function. These micronutrients are derived from the milk and cream base, and the added Vitamin A palmitate. Including foods that contribute to these essential nutrient intakes can support overall health.

How to eat it

HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS are typically consumed as a single-serving frozen dessert. They are often chosen as a lower-calorie alternative to traditional ice cream, fitting into an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to their processed nature and added sugars.

Enjoy one pop as a controlled portion for a sweet treat, being mindful of the added sugar content.
Pair with a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit to add whole food nutrients and further enhance satiety.
Consider these pops for an occasional dessert, rather than as a frequent snack to help manage overall added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. It contains several ingredients common in processed foods, such as sunflower lecithin and soy lecithin, which are emulsifiers. Individuals sensitive to sugar alcohols like erythritol may experience digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities, though the amount per pop is likely small. The product contains milk and soy, which are common allergens. While generally safe for most, those with specific sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution. The use of natural flavors, while generally recognized as safe, can sometimes be a concern for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies, as their exact composition is not always fully disclosed.

Swap suggestions
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY
Score85
Very good
OPEN NATURE PEANUT BUTTER DATE BARS, PEANUT BUTTER
Score85
Very good
ONCE AGAIN CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED MAPLE ALMOND BUTTER, CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED
Score84
Reader questions
Is HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS healthy?
This product scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers fiber and protein, and is a good source of calcium and Vitamin A, it is also ultra-processed and contains added sugars. It can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional treat, but it is not a primary source of whole-food nutrition.
How does HALO TOP compare to traditional ice cream?
Compared to traditional full-fat, full-sugar ice cream, HALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS generally have fewer calories and less total fat and added sugar, while offering more fiber and protein. However, it is still an ultra-processed food, unlike a simple dairy product. For example, a serving of Ben & Jerry's Mint Chocolate Cookie ice cream would typically have significantly more calories and added sugar.
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 typically raise blood sugar levels. For most people, it is generally recognized as safe, though consuming large amounts of sugar alcohols can sometimes lead to digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
What is a reasonable portion size for these pops?
The serving size is one pop. Sticking to this single-pop portion helps manage the intake of added sugars and processed ingredients. While they are lower in calories than many traditional ice creams, moderation is still key for any ultra-processed food.
Can I eat these if I am lactose intolerant?
This product lists 'ultra-filtered nonfat milk' and 'cream' as primary ingredients, meaning it contains lactose. While ultra-filtered milk may have slightly less lactose than regular milk, it is not lactose-free. Individuals with lactose intolerance should approach this product with caution or avoid it.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll Halo Top SKUs Competitor · 71/100ONCE AGAIN CREAMY UNSWEETENED PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY UNSWEETENED Competitor · 71/100ONCE AGAIN CREAMY UNSWEETENED SALT FREE PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY UNSWEETENED GoalBest foods for muscle building Head-to-headHALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS, MINT CHIP vs. Cottage cheese (low-fat) Head-to-headHALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS, MINT CHIP vs. Cottage Cheese Head-to-headHALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS, MINT CHIP vs. ONCE AGAIN CREAMY UNSWEETENED PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY UNSWEETENED Head-to-headHALO TOP MINT CHIP LIGHT ICE CREAM POPS, MINT CHIP vs. ONCE AGAIN CREAMY UNSWEETENED SALT FREE PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY UNSWEETENED

Data & references