FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetLAFFY TAFFY· 3 bars

LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY, CHERRY

LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this score is the very high amount of added sugar.

  • This LAFFY TAFFY product scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
  • It contains 58.6g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
  • Compared to generic taffy, this SKU has a similar nutritional profile, primarily high in sugar.
  • This candy is best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its nutritional composition.
  • Scores -15 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
58.6g
117% of Daily Value
Sodium
137.93mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (58.6g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which is dominated by a high concentration of added sugars. Per 100g, this product contains 58.6g of added sugar, which significantly contributes to its 'empty calories' penalty. The ingredient list begins with corn syrup and sugar, indicating these are the most abundant components. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring a 10-point penalty. It provides no protein, fiber, or meaningful amounts of essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, or vitamins A, C, D, B12, or folate, all registering at 0% DV. The total fat content is 5.17g, with 3.45g being saturated fat. This nutritional composition offers very little in terms of beneficial nutrients, aligning with the FoodScore assessment. Compared to a generic unbranded taffy, this LAFFY TAFFY SKU presents a similar profile of high sugar and low nutrient density.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in laffy taffy cherry candy, cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Quick Energy

This candy is primarily composed of simple carbohydrates from corn syrup and sugar, which are rapidly digested and absorbed. This can provide a quick burst of energy, making it suitable for situations requiring an immediate glucose source, such as during prolonged physical activity or to quickly alleviate symptoms of low blood sugar. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained.

Convenient and Portable

LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY is a shelf-stable product that is easy to transport and consume on the go. Its individual packaging makes it convenient for carrying in a bag or pocket, offering a readily available sweet treat. This convenience can be a factor for occasional indulgence when other food options are not available.

Source of Enjoyment

While not a nutritional benefit, foods like LAFFY TAFFY can provide sensory pleasure and enjoyment as an occasional treat. The sweet taste and chewy texture can be satisfying for some individuals. Incorporating small amounts of enjoyable foods into a balanced diet can contribute to overall dietary adherence and satisfaction, provided it's consumed in moderation.

How to eat it

LAFFY TAFFY is typically consumed as a standalone sweet treat or dessert. Its chewy texture and sweet flavor make it a popular choice for occasional indulgence. A common portion is one or two bars, but it is important to be mindful of the added sugar content.

To mitigate the sugar impact, consider having a small piece of LAFFY TAFFY after a meal that includes protein and fiber, which can help slow sugar absorption.
Pairing this candy with a nutrient-dense food like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit can add some nutritional balance to your snack.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a small portion slowly, rather than consuming multiple bars quickly, to enhance enjoyment and prevent overconsumption.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet due to its high added sugar and lack of essential nutrients.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY, CHERRY. With 58.6g of added sugar per 100g, frequent consumption can contribute to excessive sugar intake, which is associated with various health concerns. The ingredient list also includes Red 40, an artificial food coloring, which some individuals may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. The presence of soy lecithin indicates a soy allergen, which is important for individuals with soy allergies. The use of palm oil and hydrogenated cottonseed oil contributes to the fat content, including saturated fat. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should exercise particular caution due to the rapid impact of simple sugars on blood glucose.

Swap suggestions
Good
Brownie
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Good
Donut Glazed
Score71
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STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score71
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STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score69
Good
SIMPLE MILLS PANCAKE & WAFFLE ALMOND FLOUR BAKING MIX, PANCAKE & WAFFLE
Score68
Good
STRETCH ISLAND STRAWBERRY FRUIT STRIPS, STRAWBERRY
Score67
Reader questions
Is LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY healthy?
LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY, CHERRY is not considered healthy from a nutritional standpoint. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content (58.6g per 100g) and lack of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet.
How does LAFFY TAFFY compare to other candies?
Compared to many other candies in the sweet category, LAFFY TAFFY CHERRY CANDY has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and low nutrient density. For instance, it is comparable to a generic fruit chew or a Skittles Original candy in terms of its primary composition being sugar and corn syrup, with minimal to no beneficial nutrients.
What is 'Red 40' in the ingredient list?
Red 40 is an artificial food coloring used to give the candy its cherry color. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals choose to limit or avoid artificial colors in their diet due to personal preferences or reported sensitivities, particularly in children.
What is a reasonable portion size for LAFFY TAFFY?
The serving size is listed as 3 bars, but given the high added sugar content, a more reasonable portion for occasional indulgence might be one bar. This helps to manage the intake of added sugars and calories, aligning with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting discretionary calories.
Can LAFFY TAFFY be part of a balanced diet?
LAFFY TAFFY can be included in a balanced diet, but only in very small amounts and infrequently. It should be treated as a discretionary food, meaning it contributes calories but few essential nutrients. Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods for the majority of your intake is key for overall health.

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Data & references