FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackJELL-O· 1 SNACK

JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT

JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS receive a FoodScore of 13/100 (Avoid). The primary factor driving this low score is the **high amount of added sugar**.

  • This JELL-O snack scores 13/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • Each serving contains 11.45g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to a whole-food snack, this product offers minimal nutritional value.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary component.
  • Scores -28 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.82g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
11.45g
23% of Daily Value
Sodium
181.82mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (11.4g)-14
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 13

JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS earned a FoodScore of 13 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile and processing level. A significant penalty of -14 points was applied for the 11.45g of added sugar per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a snack item. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, resulted in a further -10 point deduction. Additionally, it received a -15 point penalty for being considered 'empty calories,' meaning it provides energy primarily from sugar and fat with minimal beneficial nutrients. While it did receive a small bonus of +2 points for its Vitamin A content (20% DV), this was insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Ingredients like sugar and modified cornstarch contribute to its caloric density without adding significant fiber or protein. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, which would typically offer more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this JELL-O pudding provides a less nutrient-dense option.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in jell-o original banana split pudding snacks, original banana split actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Vitamin A

This JELL-O pudding snack provides 20% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and cell growth. While not a primary source, it contributes to daily intake, especially for individuals who may have limited other sources of this nutrient. It can be a convenient way to add some Vitamin A to the diet.

Calcium Contribution

Each 100g serving of JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS contains 90.91mg of calcium, providing 7% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, as well as nerve function and muscle contraction. While this amount is not substantial, it can contribute to the overall daily calcium intake, particularly for those who may struggle to meet their needs through other dairy or calcium-fortified foods. It serves as a minor supplement to a balanced diet.

Convenient Snack Option

This product offers a ready-to-eat snack that requires no preparation, making it a convenient option for quick consumption. For individuals with busy schedules or limited access to fresh food, it can serve as an accessible item to manage hunger between meals. Its pre-portioned nature can also assist with calorie awareness if consumed as a single serving.

How to eat it

JELL-O pudding snacks are typically consumed as a single-serving dessert or snack. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten as a quick treat at home. Due to their sweet profile, they are generally not paired with savory foods but rather enjoyed on their own or alongside other sweet items.

To enhance the nutritional profile, consider pairing this snack with a source of fiber or protein, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit.
Given its high added sugar content, consume this JELL-O pudding as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
For a more balanced snack, consider splitting a serving and combining it with plain Greek yogurt to add protein and reduce the relative sugar intake.
Store in the refrigerator and consume chilled for optimal taste and texture.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, which is 11.45g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should factor this into their dietary planning. The product also contains artificial color, specifically Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, which some individuals may choose to avoid due to sensitivities or personal preferences. The presence of skim milk and cream means this product contains dairy, making it unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Ingredients like sodium stearoyl lactylate and carob bean gum are used as stabilizers and emulsifiers, common in ultra-processed foods.

Swap suggestions
Very good
ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA
Score85
Very good
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA
Score85
Very good
BEECH-NUT ORIGINAL CRISPEAS BAKED PEA PUFFS, ORIGINAL
Score85
Reader questions
Is JELL-O pudding healthy?
JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS received a FoodScore of 13/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (11.45g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some Vitamin A and calcium, it lacks significant fiber and protein, which are important for a balanced diet.
How does JELL-O pudding compare to other snack options?
Compared to a whole-food snack like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, JELL-O pudding offers significantly less fiber, protein, and a wider range of micronutrients. When compared to a dairy-based snack like a single-serving of plain Greek yogurt (e.g., FAGE Total 0%), the JELL-O product has substantially more added sugar and less protein, making the yogurt a more nutrient-dense option.
What is 'modified cornstarch' in this product?
Modified cornstarch is a common food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. It helps give the pudding its characteristic creamy texture and prevents separation of ingredients. While generally recognized as safe, it contributes to the processed nature of the food.
How much JELL-O pudding can I eat in a day?
Given its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature, it is advisable to consume JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS in moderation. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. Incorporating this snack occasionally as part of a varied diet is generally acceptable, but it should not be a daily staple.
Does this JELL-O pudding need to be refrigerated?
Yes, JELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS are a refrigerated dairy-based product. For food safety and to maintain optimal taste and texture, they should be kept refrigerated and consumed by the 'best by' date printed on the package. Do not leave them at room temperature for extended periods.

Explore more

CategoryAll snacks BrandAll JELL-O SKUs Competitor · 85/100ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Competitor · 85/100BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headJELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT vs. ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Head-to-headJELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT vs. BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headJELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT vs. BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI Head-to-headJELL-O ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT PUDDING SNACKS, ORIGINAL BANANA SPLIT vs. BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA

Data & references