HORIZON Fruit Crunchers, Apple, scores 70/100 (Good) on FoodScore, driven primarily by its **high fiber content** and **minimal processing**.
This HORIZON product scores 70/100 (Good) on FoodScore.
It provides 13.33g of fiber per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
With 0g of added sugar, it avoids a common concern in snack foods.
As a NOVA class 2 product, it is less processed than many snack alternatives.
Consider this a convenient, portable fruit option for on-the-go snacking.
Scores +29 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
13.33g
48% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
266.67mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (13.3g)+12
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 70
HORIZON Fruit Crunchers, Apple, achieves a FoodScore of 70/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely attributed to its simple ingredient profile and significant fiber content. The product consists solely of organic dried apples, which means it contains no added sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives that often detract from a food's nutritional quality. Per 100g, it delivers 13.33g of fiber, earning a substantial bonus in the FoodScore algorithm. This amount of fiber is notable for a snack product. Additionally, its classification as NOVA class 2 indicates it is a processed culinary ingredient, meaning it has undergone minimal processing, which also contributes positively to its score. There are no penalties applied to this product, as it is free from added sugar, saturated fat, and excessive sodium. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative like a fresh apple, this product offers a more concentrated form of nutrients, particularly fiber, due to the drying process, while still maintaining a clean ingredient list.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in horizon, fruit crunchers, apple, apple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This product is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 13.33g per 100g. Dietary fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. The fiber in dried apples, including both soluble and insoluble types, contributes to overall gut health by supporting a healthy microbiome. Including fiber-rich snacks like HORIZON Fruit Crunchers can be an effective way to increase daily fiber intake.
Provides Natural Energy
As a fruit-based snack, HORIZON Fruit Crunchers offer natural sugars from the organic dried apples, providing a quick and readily available source of energy. Unlike snacks with added sugars, the sugars in this product are accompanied by fiber, which can help moderate the rise in blood sugar. This makes it a suitable option for a pre-workout boost or a midday pick-me-up without the typical crash associated with refined sugars.
Convenient Fruit Intake
For individuals seeking to increase their fruit consumption, HORIZON Fruit Crunchers offer a highly convenient and portable option. The drying process concentrates the nutrients and flavor of apples into a shelf-stable format, making it easy to carry and consume anywhere. This can be particularly beneficial for those with busy lifestyles who may struggle to incorporate fresh fruit into their daily routine, helping to meet daily fruit recommendations.
HORIZON Fruit Crunchers, Apple, scores 70/100 (Good) on FoodScore, driven primarily by its high fiber content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
HORIZON Fruit Crunchers are designed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. They are typically consumed directly from the pouch as a portable fruit option during commutes, at work, or as part of a packed lunch. The serving size is one pouch, making portion control straightforward.
Pair with a source of protein like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to create a more balanced and satisfying snack that helps with satiety.
Chop and add to oatmeal, cereal, or a smoothie for added texture and natural sweetness without relying on refined sugars.
Use as a natural sweetener in baking recipes, replacing some of the added sugar with the concentrated fruit flavor of dried apples.
Keep a pouch in your bag or desk drawer for a quick and healthy alternative to less nutritious snack options when hunger strikes.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally considered safe for most populations due to its minimal ingredient list. The only ingredient is organic dried apples, meaning there are no common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, or nuts declared. There are also no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives to be concerned about. Individuals with specific sensitivities to concentrated fruit products should be aware that the drying process removes water, making the natural sugars and fiber more concentrated. While beneficial for most, those with digestive sensitivities to high fiber intake might want to consume in moderation initially. Overall, HORIZON Fruit Crunchers present a low-risk option from a caution perspective.
HORIZON Fruit Crunchers score 70/100 (Good) on FoodScore. This indicates it is a nutritionally sound choice, primarily due to its high fiber content (13.33g per 100g) and lack of added sugars. It's a simple product made from organic dried apples, offering a convenient way to consume fruit.
How does HORIZON Fruit Crunchers compare to other dried fruit snacks?
Compared to many other dried fruit snacks, such as some brands of fruit leathers or sweetened dried cranberries, HORIZON Fruit Crunchers stand out for having no added sugar. Many competitors add cane sugar or fruit juice concentrates, which increases the overall sugar content. This product's simple ingredient list of 'organic dried apples' makes it a cleaner option.
What does 'organic dried apples' mean for this product?
The term 'organic dried apples' means the apples used were grown and processed according to organic farming standards, without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. The 'dried' part indicates that the water has been removed, concentrating the fruit's nutrients and natural sugars. This results in a shelf-stable and nutrient-dense snack.
What is a reasonable portion size for HORIZON Fruit Crunchers?
The manufacturer's serving size is one pouch. While dried fruit is nutrient-dense, it's also calorie-dense (400 calories per 100g). Sticking to the single pouch serving helps manage calorie intake. For a more filling snack, consider pairing it with a protein source like a small handful of almonds or a cheese stick.
Can HORIZON Fruit Crunchers be given to children?
Yes, HORIZON Fruit Crunchers can be a suitable snack for children due to its simple, whole-food ingredient and lack of added sugars. The fiber content is beneficial for children's digestion. However, always ensure children are old enough to safely chew and swallow dried fruit to prevent choking hazards, and monitor portion sizes.