FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorsweetHALO TOP· 1/2 Cup

HALO TOP MINT FUDGE COOKIE DAIRY FREE FROZEN DESSERT, MINT FUDGE COOKIE

HALO TOP MINT FUDGE COOKIE DAIRY FREE FROZEN DESSERT scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature, despite a notable fiber contribution.

  • This HALO TOP frozen dessert receives a FoodScore of 44/100, categorized as Poor.
  • It contains 4.6g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to generic frozen desserts, this SKU offers a lower calorie and saturated fat content.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
  • Scores +29 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
4.6g
16% of Daily Value
Protein
4.62g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
115.08mg
5% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.6g)+5
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.9g)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 44

HALO TOP MINT FUDGE COOKIE DAIRY FREE FROZEN DESSERT earns a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this lower score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive aspect, it still contributes 3.85g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -1 point penalty. On the positive side, the product provides 4.6g of fiber per 100g, earning a +5 bonus. Ingredients like erythritol and stevia leaf extract are used as sweeteners, contributing to the 0g added sugar claim. However, the presence of multiple ingredients such as vegetable glycerin, rice protein concentrate, and various gums contributes to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a generic unbranded frozen dessert, this HALO TOP product typically offers a lower calorie count and reduced saturated fat, but its ultra-processed nature remains a key consideration.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in halo top mint fudge cookie dairy free frozen dessert, mint fudge cookie actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Lower-Calorie Sweet Treat Option

This HALO TOP frozen dessert provides 123.08 calories per 100g, which is often lower than many traditional full-fat, sugar-sweetened ice creams. For individuals managing calorie intake, this can be a useful alternative for satisfying a sweet craving. The formulation utilizes erythritol and stevia leaf extract to achieve its sweetness without contributing added sugars, making it suitable for those monitoring sugar intake.

Source of Dietary Fiber

With 4.6g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a notable amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. The inclusion of prebiotic fiber in the ingredient list is a specific choice to enhance the fiber content, which is a positive attribute for a sweet dessert item. This can help to slightly mitigate the impact of other less beneficial components.

Protein Contribution

This frozen dessert contains 4.62g of protein per 100g, derived from sources like rice protein concentrate and pea protein isolate. While not a primary protein source, this amount is higher than many conventional frozen desserts. Protein contributes to satiety and is essential for muscle repair and growth. For a dessert, this added protein can make it a slightly more substantial option.

How to eat it

Frozen desserts like HALO TOP are typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert. A common portion size is 1/2 cup, which is the declared serving size. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes, as even lower-calorie options can contribute to excess intake if consumed in large quantities.

Pair with fresh fruit: Add a handful of berries or sliced banana to your serving to boost vitamin and mineral intake.
Mindful portioning: Stick to the recommended 1/2 cup serving size to manage calorie and saturated fat intake effectively.
Consider as an occasional treat: Due to its ultra-processed nature, integrate this product into your diet as an infrequent indulgence rather than a daily staple.
Combine with healthy fats: A small sprinkle of nuts or seeds can add beneficial fats and additional fiber to your dessert.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains coconut milk, which is a tree nut allergen. Individuals with allergies to coconut should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes wheat flour in the chocolate cookie pieces, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The use of sugar alcohols like erythritol can sometimes cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in larger quantities. While the product is dairy-free, it is still an ultra-processed food with several additives, including various gums and natural flavors, which some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet.

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Reader questions
Is HALO TOP MINT FUDGE COOKIE DAIRY FREE FROZEN DESSERT healthy?
This HALO TOP product receives a FoodScore of 44/100, which is categorized as 'Poor.' While it offers benefits like 0g added sugar and a notable fiber content (4.6g per 100g), its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) significantly impacts its overall score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, but it is not a nutrient-dense food.
How does HALO TOP compare to other frozen desserts?
Compared to many traditional full-fat, sugar-sweetened ice creams, this HALO TOP SKU generally has fewer calories and 0g of added sugar. However, when compared to a product like Ben & Jerry's dairy-free options, the HALO TOP product often has a different ingredient profile, frequently using sugar alcohols and alternative proteins to achieve its lower calorie and sugar claims. It's important to compare the ingredient list and nutritional facts directly for specific products.
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, making it a popular choice in 'sugar-free' or 'low-sugar' products. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, but some individuals may experience digestive upset like bloating or gas if consumed in large amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this frozen dessert?
The recommended serving size for HALO TOP MINT FUDGE COOKIE DAIRY FREE FROZEN DESSERT is 1/2 cup. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories (123.08 per 100g) and saturated fat (3.85g per 100g). While it's a lower-calorie option, portion control is still key for any dessert to fit within a balanced dietary pattern.
Can I eat this product if I have a dairy allergy?
Yes, this specific HALO TOP product is labeled as 'Dairy Free' and uses coconut milk as its base instead of cow's milk. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with dairy allergies or those following a vegan diet. However, it does contain other allergens like coconut (a tree nut) and wheat, so always check the full ingredient list for your specific dietary needs.

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Data & references