KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
This product has a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is best consumed sparingly.
It contains 31.07g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Compared to generic strawberry spread, this product has a similar nutritional profile.
Use in small portions to manage added sugar intake.
Scores -14 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.07g
62% of Daily Value
Sodium
56.11mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.1g)-25
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 18
KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread scores 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, at 31.07g per 100g. This contributes to a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the product is penalized -15 points for being largely composed of 'empty calories,' meaning it provides energy without significant amounts of essential vitamins, minerals, or fiber. While it receives a bonus of +8 points for being a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient rather than an ultra-processed food, this is not enough to offset the nutritional drawbacks. The ingredient list begins with 'STRAWBERRIES' but 'SUGAR' is the second ingredient, directly reflecting the high added sugar content. Compared to a generic unbranded strawberry spread, this KIRKLAND SIGNATURE product has a very similar nutritional composition, with comparable levels of added sugar and a lack of beneficial macronutrients like protein and fiber.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kirkland signature, strawberry spread actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a source of Vitamin C
This strawberry spread offers a modest amount of Vitamin C, providing 7% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. While not a primary source, it can contribute a small amount to your daily intake when consumed as part of a varied diet. This benefit is primarily due to the strawberry content in the spread.
Can be part of a balanced diet in moderation
While high in added sugar, this product can be incorporated into a balanced diet when consumed in small, controlled portions. It serves as a flavor enhancer for foods that might otherwise be less appealing, such as plain whole-wheat toast or unsweetened yogurt. The key is to be mindful of the serving size to avoid excessive intake of added sugars, ensuring it complements rather than dominates your nutritional goals.
Minimally processed as a culinary ingredient
KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread is classified as a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This classification indicates it has undergone minimal processing to make it suitable for cooking or seasoning, such as the simple combination of fruit and sugar. This is a more favorable classification than ultra-processed foods, which often contain numerous additives and highly refined ingredients.
KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
How to eat it
Strawberry spread is commonly used as a topping for breakfast items like toast, bagels, or pancakes, and can also be incorporated into desserts or as a glaze. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon, which is important to consider due to its concentrated sugar content.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-wheat toast or oatmeal to help mitigate the sugar impact and increase satiety.
Use a small amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon) to add flavor to plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a controlled sweet treat.
Consider using it as an ingredient in homemade vinaigrettes or marinades, where the sugar is distributed across a larger dish.
Measure your portion carefully to avoid overconsumption, especially given the high added sugar per serving.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread is its high added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should consume this product with particular care and in very small quantities. The ingredient 'SUGAR' is the second item on the list, indicating its prevalence. While the product contains fruit pectin, a common gelling agent, and citric acid, a natural preservative and flavor enhancer, these ingredients are generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared or obvious cross-contamination risks based on the ingredient list provided. However, consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full label for any 'may contain' statements.
With a FoodScore of 18/100, KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread is not considered a healthy food for regular consumption. Its nutritional profile is dominated by added sugar, which contributes to a high calorie count without significant essential nutrients like protein, fiber, or most vitamins and minerals. It can be enjoyed occasionally in very small portions as part of an otherwise balanced diet.
How does KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic unbranded strawberry spread, KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread has a very similar nutritional composition, particularly in its high added sugar content. When compared to a brand like Smucker's Strawberry Preserves, the nutritional profiles are often quite similar, with both typically containing a high percentage of sugar. For a lower sugar option, consumers might look for fruit spreads with no added sugar, though these often use alternative sweeteners.
What is fruit pectin?
Fruit pectin is a naturally occurring fiber found in fruits. In strawberry spread, it acts as a gelling agent, giving the spread its characteristic thick texture. While pectin itself is a beneficial fiber, its presence in this product does not significantly contribute to the overall fiber content, which is 0g per 100g.
What is a reasonable portion size for this strawberry spread?
A reasonable portion size for KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread is typically 1 tablespoon. This amount helps to control the intake of added sugars, which are 31.07g per 100g. Using a measured spoon can help prevent overconsumption, especially when adding it to breakfast items or desserts.
Can I use this spread in baking?
Yes, KIRKLAND SIGNATURE Strawberry Spread can be used in baking as a filling for pastries, cakes, or tarts. Its sweetness and fruit flavor make it suitable for these applications. However, be mindful of the additional sugar it contributes to your recipes, and adjust other sweeteners accordingly to manage the overall sugar content of your baked goods.