HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS
HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high content of added sugar** and saturated fat.
This product scores 8/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore guidelines.
A single serving contains 34g of added sugar, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, this product exceeds recommended daily limits.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, offering minimal nutritional benefits.
This product is best consumed in very small portions and infrequently, rather than as a regular snack.
Scores -24 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
5.71g
20% of Daily Value
Protein
2.86g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
34g
68% of Daily Value
Sodium
6mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.7g)+7
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (34g)-25
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 8
HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS earns a FoodScore of 8/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary reason for this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, totaling 34g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The product also contains 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional -10 point penalty, reflecting its extensive processing and formulation with industrial ingredients. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat further deducts 3 points. While the product does offer some fiber (5.7g, +7 points) and micronutrients like iron (14% DV) and Vitamin A (16% DV, +4 points), these positive contributions are heavily outweighed by the penalties. Ingredients such as "SUGAR" and "CORN SYRUP" are key drivers of the high added sugar content. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, HARVEST SWEETS provides a high caloric density and minimal essential nutrients relative to its sugar and fat load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in harvest sweets dark chocolate covered cranberries & pecans actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product provides 2.57mg of iron per 100g, contributing 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may have difficulty meeting their needs through other foods. However, the overall nutritional profile suggests this should not be considered a primary source of iron.
Contains Vitamin A
HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS offers 16% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The contribution of Vitamin A from this product is notable, though it's important to consider the context of the product's high sugar and fat content. It's not a substitute for whole food sources of Vitamin A.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 5.71g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a modest amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and can help promote satiety. The fiber content primarily comes from the dried cranberries and pecans. While beneficial, the amount of fiber should be weighed against the product's high added sugar and saturated fat content when considering its overall dietary contribution.
HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS is typically consumed as a sweet treat or snack. Given its high sugar and fat content, it's best enjoyed in small, controlled portions rather than as a primary snack or meal component. It's not designed to provide sustained energy or significant nutritional value.
To manage added sugar intake, consider sharing a serving or portioning out a very small amount to enjoy as an occasional indulgence.
Pair with a source of lean protein or unsweetened fruit to help balance the meal and provide more satiety and nutrients.
Avoid consuming this product regularly; it is best reserved for infrequent treats due to its ultra-processed nature and nutrient profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS contains several common allergens, including milk fat and soy lecithin from the dark chocolate, and pecans. Individuals with allergies to tree nuts (pecans), milk, or soy should avoid this product. The high added sugar content, at 34g per 100g, is a significant concern for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The product is also ultra-processed (NOVA 4), meaning it contains ingredients like gum arabic, corn syrup, and confectioners glaze that are typically not found in home kitchens and may be associated with less favorable health outcomes when consumed regularly.
Is HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS healthy?
No, HARVEST SWEETS DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED CRANBERRIES & PECANS is not considered healthy. It received a FoodScore of 8/100, indicating it should be avoided. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (34g per 100g) and significant amount of saturated fat (14.29g per 100g).
How does HARVEST SWEETS compare to other snack options?
Compared to a whole food snack like a handful of plain almonds or a piece of fruit, HARVEST SWEETS contains significantly more added sugar and saturated fat. Even compared to some other packaged snacks like a KIND Bar, this product has a higher sugar load and is more ultra-processed, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
What is 'soy lecithin' in the ingredient list?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used in dark chocolate to help blend ingredients and create a smooth texture. While generally recognized as safe, it is an ingredient that contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1.25 ounces. Given the high caloric density and sugar content, adhering strictly to this small portion size is crucial. Consuming larger amounts would significantly increase your intake of added sugars and saturated fats beyond recommended daily limits.
Can I eat HARVEST SWEETS if I'm trying to lose weight?
Due to its high calorie count (494.29 calories per 100g) and significant added sugar, HARVEST SWEETS is not ideal for weight management. If consumed, it should be in very small, controlled portions and factored carefully into your daily caloric intake to avoid hindering weight loss goals.