JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, SOUR GRAPE receives a FoodScore of 16/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This product has a FoodScore of 16/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 47.25g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic sour candies, JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS offers similar nutritional characteristics.
Consume this product in very small portions and infrequently due to its nutritional profile.
Scores +1 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
47.25g
95% of Daily Value
Sodium
75mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5g)+1
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (47.3g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 16
JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, SOUR GRAPE earns a FoodScore of 16 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, totaling 47.25g per 100g. This contributes a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with corn syrup and sugar, indicating these are the most prevalent components. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional -10 point penalty. While it does provide 5g of protein per 100g, earning a +1 bonus, this minor benefit is heavily outweighed by the penalties. The product contains no fiber, total fat, or notable micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron, all registering 0% DV. Compared to a generic unbranded version of sour candy, JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS presents a very similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and minimal beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in jelly belly petite sour hearts, sour grape actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a quick source of carbohydrates
This product, like many candies, offers a rapid source of carbohydrates primarily from corn syrup and sugar. For individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as during intense physical activity or to quickly raise blood sugar levels in specific situations, the simple sugars in JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS can be effective. However, this should not be a primary or regular source of energy due to the lack of other essential nutrients.
A source of protein
JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS contains 5g of protein per 100g, primarily from kosher gelatin. While not a significant protein source for a typical diet, this amount does contribute a small bonus to its FoodScore. For those seeking to increase their protein intake, more nutrient-dense options are generally recommended, but this product does offer a minimal amount.
Can be used for occasional indulgence
As a sweet treat, JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS can serve as an occasional indulgence within a balanced dietary pattern. Enjoying small, controlled portions of foods like this can be part of a healthy relationship with food, rather than restricting them entirely. The key is moderation and infrequent consumption, given its high added sugar content and lack of essential nutrients.
JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, SOUR GRAPE receives a FoodScore of 16/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS are typically consumed as a sweet treat or snack. They are often eaten directly from the package in small handfuls. Given their high sugar content, they are best enjoyed infrequently and in controlled portions.
Consider pairing a very small portion with a source of fiber or protein, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help mitigate rapid blood sugar spikes.
Use these candies as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack, especially if you are monitoring your added sugar intake.
Portion out a small serving into a separate dish to avoid overconsumption directly from the bag, which can lead to eating more than intended.
For a similar sour flavor with less added sugar, consider fresh or frozen berries with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, which is 47.25g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes artificial flavor and several artificial colors (Red 40 Lake, Red 40, Yellow 5 Lake, Red 3), which some individuals choose to avoid due to sensitivities or personal preferences. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, the long-term effects of high consumption of artificial colors are an ongoing area of research. The product also contains gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Is JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, SOUR GRAPE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 16/100, JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, SOUR GRAPE is not considered a healthy food for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (47.25g per 100g) and is an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), offering minimal beneficial nutrients.
How does JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS compare to other candies?
Compared to many other branded sour candies like Sour Patch Kids, JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar and a lack of essential nutrients. Most products in the candy category will score similarly low due to their composition.
What is 'kosher gelatin' in this product?
Kosher gelatin is a type of gelatin that adheres to Jewish dietary laws. Gelatin itself is a protein derived from animal collagen. In JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS, it contributes to the product's texture and its small protein content (5g per 100g).
What is a reasonable portion size for this candy?
The declared serving size is 68 pieces, which is 100g. However, given the high added sugar content, a more reasonable portion for occasional indulgence would be significantly smaller, perhaps 10-20 pieces, to limit sugar intake.
Can children eat JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS?
Children can consume JELLY BELLY PETITE SOUR HEARTS in very small, infrequent portions. Due to the high added sugar and artificial colors, it's advisable to limit intake to prevent excessive sugar consumption and potential sensitivities to artificial ingredients.
Are the artificial colors in this product safe?
The artificial colors listed, such as Red 40 Lake and Yellow 5 Lake, are approved for use by the FDA. While generally considered safe, some individuals, particularly children, may experience sensitivities or behavioral changes, leading some to prefer avoiding them.