HARVEST SWEETS, DARK CHOCOLATE COVERED BLUEBERRIES & ALMONDS
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds scores 13/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
FoodScore: 13/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 30g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Provides 8.6g of fiber per 100g, a notable positive nutrient.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed in small, controlled portions as an occasional treat.
Scores -19 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
8.6g
31% of Daily Value
Protein
5.71g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
30g
60% of Daily Value
Sodium
6mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8.6g)+11
Protein (5.7g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30g)-25
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 13
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds receives a FoodScore of 13/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its significant added sugar content, which stands at 30g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of -25 points. The product also contains 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in an additional -10 point deduction, with a further -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While the product does offer some positive attributes, such as 8.6g of fiber (+11 points) and modest amounts of protein (5.7g, +1 point), along with some iron and Vitamin A (+4 points), these benefits are outweighed by the penalties. The presence of ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and confectioners glaze contributes to its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, HARVEST SWEETS provides a much higher caloric density and a significant amount of added sugars and fats, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in harvest sweets, dark chocolate covered blueberries & almonds actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 8.6g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While HARVEST SWEETS is not a primary source of fiber, it can supplement intake when consumed as part of a varied diet. The fiber comes from both the dried blueberries and almonds.
Contains Iron
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds offers 6.17mg of iron per 100g, which is 34% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels. Including foods that contribute to iron intake can be beneficial, especially for individuals who may have higher iron needs or are at risk of deficiency. The dark chocolate and almonds likely contribute to this mineral content.
Provides Vitamin A
This product contains Vitamin A, contributing 16% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. While not a significant source, this contribution can be a small part of meeting daily vitamin A requirements. The dried blueberries are a likely source of this nutrient.
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds scores 13/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds is typically consumed as a snack or dessert. Due to its high caloric density and added sugar, it's best enjoyed in small, controlled portions rather than as a primary meal component. It's a convenient option for a quick sweet treat.
Portion control is key: Measure out a small serving to manage added sugar and calorie intake.
Pair with plain yogurt or fresh fruit to add volume and additional nutrients, balancing the sweetness.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack due to its ultra-processed nature and high sugar content.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and prevent the chocolate from melting.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers should be aware of. The ingredient list includes milk fat and soy lecithin, indicating that it contains common allergens milk and soy. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of almonds also means it contains tree nuts, another common allergen. While the product does not contain artificial sweeteners or colors, its high added sugar content (30g per 100g) means individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume it with caution and in very limited quantities. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which some dietary guidelines suggest limiting for overall health.
Is HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds healthy?
HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds scores 13/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by the less desirable nutritional aspects for regular consumption.
How does HARVEST SWEETS compare to other chocolate-covered fruit snacks?
Compared to other chocolate-covered fruit snacks, HARVEST SWEETS is similar in its high added sugar and saturated fat profile. For example, products like Brookside Dark Chocolate Açai & Blueberry Flavors also contain significant amounts of added sugar. Consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel, as these types of snacks are generally high in calories and sugar.
What is 'soy lecithin' and why is it in this product?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used in chocolate to help create a smooth texture and prevent the cocoa butter from separating. It's a common food additive and is generally recognized as safe, though individuals with soy allergies should be aware of its presence.
What is a reasonable portion size for HARVEST SWEETS?
The serving size is 1.25 ounces (approximately 35g). Given its high caloric density and 30g of added sugar per 100g, sticking to this small portion size is advisable. Consuming larger amounts would significantly increase your intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
Can I eat HARVEST SWEETS if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, HARVEST SWEETS Dark Chocolate Covered Blueberries & Almonds may not be the best choice. It contains 30g of added sugar per 100g, which is a substantial amount. It's best reserved for very occasional treats in small quantities, or avoided if strict sugar reduction is your goal.