HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS
HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS scores 18/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This HUNGRY JACK mix receives a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
The product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A significant concern is the 16.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a large penalty.
It contains 1020.37mg of sodium per 100g, which is a high amount for a single serving.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -15 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
5.56g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
16.7g
33% of Daily Value
Sodium
1020.37mg
44% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.6g)+1
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (16.7g)-22
Sodium (1020.4mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 18
HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS receives a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary driver for this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, which stands at 16.7g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of -22 points. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which results in a -10 point penalty. The high sodium content, at 1020.37mg per 100g, also contributes a -5 point penalty. While the mix provides some beneficial micronutrients, specifically 28% DV for calcium and 10% DV for iron per 100g, earning +4 bonus points, and 5.56g of protein adding +1 point, these are not sufficient to offset the penalties. Ingredients like sugar and dextrose are listed early, reflecting the high sugar load. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product contains considerably more added sugar and sodium, and lacks the fiber typically found in less processed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hungry jack buttermilk pancake & waffle mix with candy bits actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Calcium
This pancake and waffle mix contributes to your daily calcium intake, providing 361.11mg per 100g, which is 28% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health and plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. While not a primary source, it can help supplement calcium intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Source of Iron
The product offers 1.85mg of iron per 100g, accounting for 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. Including sources of iron in the diet is important for preventing iron deficiency, and this mix can contribute a small amount towards that goal.
Convenient Meal Preparation
For individuals seeking a quick breakfast option, this mix offers convenience in meal preparation. Its pre-mixed format allows for rapid preparation of pancakes or waffles, which can be useful on busy mornings. While convenient, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when incorporating such products into a regular diet.
HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS scores 18/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Pancake and waffle mixes like HUNGRY JACK are typically consumed as a breakfast item, often paired with syrups, fruits, or other toppings. A common serving size is 1/3 cup of dry mix. The main pitfall is the tendency to add high-sugar toppings, further increasing the overall sugar content of the meal.
To improve the nutritional profile, pair your pancakes or waffles with fresh fruit and a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or eggs.
Be mindful of portion sizes; sticking to the recommended 1/3 cup serving of mix can help manage added sugar and sodium intake.
Consider using a sugar-free syrup or a small amount of pure maple syrup instead of high-fructose corn syrup-based options to reduce overall sugar.
Incorporate whole grains by mixing this product with a portion of whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
Things to keep in mind
This HUNGRY JACK mix contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to note. The presence of artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, particularly in the candy bits, may be a concern for some individuals, especially children. The product also contains soy lecithin, an emulsifier, which is a common allergen. Individuals with a dairy allergy should be aware that the product contains buttermilk. The high sodium content (1020.37mg per 100g) means that individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation. The significant amount of added sugar may also be a consideration for individuals managing blood sugar levels.
Is HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 18/100, this product is categorized as 'Avoid'. It is an ultra-processed food with a high amount of added sugar (16.7g per 100g) and sodium (1020.37mg per 100g). While it offers some calcium and iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does HUNGRY JACK compare to other pancake mixes?
Compared to a generic plain buttermilk pancake mix, the HUNGRY JACK BUTTERMILK PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX WITH CANDY BITS likely contains more added sugar due to the candy bits and higher sodium. For instance, a brand like Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix might have a different nutritional profile, often with less added sugar if it doesn't include candy. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What are 'candy bits' in the ingredient list?
The 'candy bits' in this mix are a blend of sugar, vegetable oil (palm and palm kernel), modified corn starch, confectioner's glaze, soy lecithin, and artificial colors. These ingredients primarily contribute to the product's added sugar content and its ultra-processed classification, offering minimal nutritional value.
How much of this mix should I eat?
The recommended serving size is 1/3 cup of dry mix. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage the intake of added sugar and sodium. Consuming larger portions will significantly increase your intake of these components, making it harder to maintain a balanced diet.
Can I make this mix more nutritious?
You can enhance the nutritional value by adding fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas to your pancakes or waffles. Incorporating a side of lean protein, such as eggs or a small serving of nuts, can also create a more balanced meal. You might also consider mixing in a small amount of whole grain flour to increase fiber.