LI HING PLUM CANDY, PLUM receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its extremely high sodium and added sugar content.
LI HING PLUM CANDY, PLUM scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it should be avoided.
This product contains 80g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 1,000,000mg of sodium per 100g, this candy is exceptionally high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, this candy is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
Consume this product in very small, infrequent portions due to its extreme nutrient profile.
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
80g
160% of Daily Value
Sodium
1000000mg
43478% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (80g)-25
Sodium (1000000mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
LI HING PLUM CANDY, PLUM earns a FoodScore of 0/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional composition, which includes significant penalties. The product contains an exceptionally high 80g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a substantial penalty of -25 points. Furthermore, the sodium content is extraordinarily high at 1,000,000mg per 100g, resulting in a -12 point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), LI HING PLUM CANDY incurs an additional -10 point penalty. The absence of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients contributes to a -15 point penalty for 'empty calories.' Ingredients like dextrose and maltodextrin are primary sources of the added sugar. Compared to a generic unbranded plum candy, this LI HING product stands out for its extreme sodium level, which is far beyond typical candy formulations and significantly impacts its overall nutritional assessment.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in li hing plum candy, plum actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a quick source of energy
LI HING PLUM CANDY is composed primarily of simple carbohydrates like dextrose and maltodextrin, which are rapidly absorbed by the body. This can provide a quick burst of energy, making it suitable for immediate energy needs, such as during intense physical activity or to quickly raise blood sugar levels in specific situations. However, this energy is not sustained and lacks accompanying nutrients.
Convenient and portable snack option
This product is designed for convenience and portability, making it easy to carry and consume on the go. Its compact size and non-perishable nature mean it can be stored for extended periods without refrigeration. This makes it a practical choice for situations where access to fresh food is limited, or as a small treat when convenience is the primary factor.
Offers a specific flavor experience
For individuals seeking the distinct li hing mui flavor profile, this candy delivers that specific taste experience. The combination of plum powder, citric acid, and salt creates a unique sweet, sour, and salty sensation. While not a nutritional benefit, the specific flavor can satisfy a craving for this particular taste, which is a common reason for consuming such products.
LI HING PLUM CANDY, PLUM receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its extremely high sodium and added sugar content.
How to eat it
LI HING PLUM CANDY is typically consumed as a small, infrequent treat rather than a regular part of the diet. It's often enjoyed individually to satisfy a craving for its unique sweet, sour, and salty flavor. Due to its extreme nutritional profile, portion control is crucial.
Limit consumption to very small, occasional portions to minimize intake of added sugar and sodium.
Consider pairing a single piece with a nutrient-dense snack like nuts or fruit to balance the overall nutritional impact.
Use this candy as an infrequent indulgence rather than a daily snack, given its ultra-processed nature and lack of essential nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the extremely high sodium content in LI HING PLUM CANDY, which is 1,000,000mg per 100g. This level is far beyond typical dietary recommendations and could be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney conditions. The product also contains aspartame, an artificial sweetener, which some individuals choose to avoid. Additionally, the presence of FD&C Red 40, an artificial color, may be a concern for some, particularly parents of children sensitive to food dyes. The high amount of added sugar (dextrose, maltodextrin) makes this product unsuitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes.
No, LI HING PLUM CANDY is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its extremely high content of added sugar (80g per 100g) and an extraordinary amount of sodium (1,000,000mg per 100g). It provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
How does LI HING PLUM CANDY compare to other candies?
Compared to many other candies, LI HING PLUM CANDY stands out for its exceptionally high sodium content, which is unusual for a sweet product. While many candies, like a generic gummy bear, also contain high amounts of added sugar, the sodium level in LI HING is significantly higher. This makes it a unique product in the candy category.
What is aspartame and why is it in this candy?
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used to provide sweetness without adding calories from sugar. It's included in LI HING PLUM CANDY to enhance sweetness while potentially reducing the overall sugar content slightly, or to provide a specific taste profile. Some individuals choose to limit or avoid aspartame in their diet.
What is a reasonable portion size for LI HING PLUM CANDY?
The declared serving size is 5 pieces, but given the extreme sodium and added sugar content, a more reasonable portion for occasional consumption would be 1-2 pieces. It's best to treat this as an infrequent indulgence rather than a regular snack to minimize its impact on your daily nutrient intake.
Can children eat LI HING PLUM CANDY?
Due to the extremely high sodium content and significant added sugar, LI HING PLUM CANDY is not recommended for regular consumption by children. Small, infrequent portions might be acceptable as a rare treat, but parents should be mindful of the nutritional impact. For comparison, a typical serving of Skittles also contains high sugar but significantly less sodium.