JELLY BELLY BROWNIES receive a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid) primarily due to their **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 9/100 (Avoid) reflects a product with minimal nutritional value.
Contains 26.6g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
Provides 2g of fiber per 100g, a small positive, along with some iron and Vitamin A.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it offers less nutritional benefit than whole-food snack alternatives.
Best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its high calorie and sugar density.
Scores -32 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
2g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
26.6g
53% of Daily Value
Sodium
180mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (26.6g)-25
Saturated fat (7g)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 9
JELLY BELLY BROWNIES earned a FoodScore of 9 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by the product's nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and fats. Per 100g, these brownies contain 26.6g of added sugar, which incurred a substantial -25 penalty in the scoring system. The presence of 7g of saturated fat also contributed a -8 penalty. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 penalty. Ingredients like sugar and corn syrup are listed early, confirming the high sugar load. While the brownies do offer minor bonuses, including 2g of fiber (+1) and some micronutrients like iron and Vitamin A (+4), these are insufficient to offset the significant penalties. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, JELLY BELLY BROWNIES provide considerably fewer beneficial nutrients and a higher concentration of components to limit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in jelly belly brownies actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Quick Energy
JELLY BELLY BROWNIES are calorie-dense, with 460 calories per 100g, primarily from sugars and fats. This can provide a rapid source of energy, which may be useful in specific situations requiring an immediate caloric boost, such as during prolonged physical activity or when quick energy is needed to prevent a drop in blood sugar. However, this energy is not sustained due to the lack of significant protein or fiber.
Source of Iron and Vitamin A
Per 100g, JELLY BELLY BROWNIES contribute 2.16mg of iron, which is 12% of the Daily Value, and 22% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A. While not a primary source, these micronutrients can contribute to daily intake. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, and Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. These contributions are a minor positive in an otherwise nutrient-poor profile.
Convenient Snack Option
As a pre-packaged snack, JELLY BELLY BROWNIES offer convenience and portability. They require no preparation and can be easily consumed on the go. For individuals with limited access to fresh foods or time for meal preparation, this product can serve as a readily available option, though its nutritional content suggests it should not be a regular dietary staple.
JELLY BELLY BROWNIES receive a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid) primarily due to their high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
JELLY BELLY BROWNIES are typically consumed as an indulgent snack or dessert. A common portion size is 2 brownies. Given their high sugar and calorie content, they are best enjoyed in moderation and not as a primary source of daily nutrition.
Consider pairing a small portion of JELLY BELLY BROWNIES with a source of protein or fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single brownie slowly, rather than consuming multiple servings, to enjoy the treat without overconsumption.
Use JELLY BELLY BROWNIES as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines for limiting added sugars.
If you are looking for a more nutrient-dense snack, consider alternatives like a small apple with peanut butter or a handful of almonds.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary concerns should note several aspects of JELLY BELLY BROWNIES. The product contains bleached enriched wheat flour, indicating gluten, and egg whites, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or egg allergies. The ingredient list also includes soybean oil and modified palm and palm kernel oils, which are common allergens for some individuals. The high concentration of sugar and corn syrup means this product is not suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, without careful consideration of portion size and overall carbohydrate intake. The presence of multiple food dyes, though not explicitly listed in the provided snippet beyond 'Jelly Belly Topper', is common in such products and may be a concern for some consumers, particularly parents of young children.
JELLY BELLY BROWNIES are not considered a healthy food choice. They received a FoodScore of 9/100, indicating a very low nutritional value. This is primarily due to their high content of added sugars (26.6g per 100g) and saturated fat (7g per 100g), with minimal beneficial nutrients.
How do JELLY BELLY BROWNIES compare to other snack cakes like Little Debbie Fudge Rounds?
Compared to other snack cakes like Little Debbie Fudge Rounds, JELLY BELLY BROWNIES share a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and fats and classified as ultra-processed. Both types of products are generally intended for occasional indulgence rather than regular consumption as part of a balanced diet.
What is 'bleached enriched wheat flour' and why is it in these brownies?
Bleached enriched wheat flour is a common ingredient in baked goods like brownies. It is wheat flour that has been chemically bleached to whiten it and then enriched with vitamins (like niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron that were lost during processing. It provides structure and texture to the brownies.
What is a reasonable portion size for JELLY BELLY BROWNIES?
The declared serving size for JELLY BELLY BROWNIES is 2 brownies. However, given the high calorie and sugar content, a more reasonable portion for occasional indulgence might be a single brownie, especially if you are mindful of your overall daily intake of added sugars and calories.
Can I eat JELLY BELLY BROWNIES if I have a nut allergy?
The provided ingredient list does not explicitly declare tree nuts or peanuts as ingredients in JELLY BELLY BROWNIES. However, it's crucial to always check the allergen statement on the physical packaging for cross-contamination warnings, as manufacturing facilities often process various allergens.