LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product received a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A single serving contains 16.72g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic lowfat ice cream, this SKU has a similar nutritional profile.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dessert option.
Scores -13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.99g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
16.72g
33% of Daily Value
Sodium
90mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (16.7g)-22
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 20
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN earned a FoodScore of 20 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high content of added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 16.72g of added sugar per 100g, it incurs a significant penalty of -22 points. The presence of multiple sweeteners like sugar and corn syrup contributes to this amount. Additionally, its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, results in a -10 point penalty. While it receives a minor bonus of +2 points for its Vitamin A content (33% DV), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a generic lowfat ice cream, this LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS product has a comparable nutritional breakdown, particularly in its sugar and fat content, and also falls into the ultra-processed category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lucerne dairy farms lowfat ice cream, neapolitan actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This lowfat ice cream provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 33% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports various bodily functions, including vision, immune function, and cellular growth. While not a primary source, it can contribute to your daily intake of this important nutrient, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Calcium Contribution
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN offers 118.96mg of calcium per 100g, which is 9% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. Dairy products are generally good sources of calcium, and this ice cream can be a minor contributor to meeting daily calcium needs, particularly for those who enjoy dairy desserts.
Occasional Indulgence
As a dessert, this product can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced dietary pattern. For individuals who enjoy ice cream, this SKU provides a familiar flavor profile. The key is moderation, ensuring that such items do not displace more nutrient-dense foods in the diet. It can be a satisfying option for a dessert craving when consumed mindfully.
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Ice cream is typically consumed as a dessert or an occasional snack. A common portion size is 0.5 cup, which is the declared serving size. It's often eaten straight from the container or served in a bowl. The main pitfall is overconsumption, given its calorie and added sugar content.
To manage portion sizes, measure out a 0.5 cup serving into a small bowl rather than eating directly from the carton.
Pair with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to add fiber and additional micronutrients to your dessert.
Consider this as an occasional treat, perhaps once or twice a week, rather than a daily dessert option.
For a more balanced dessert, combine a smaller portion of ice cream with a handful of nuts for healthy fats and protein.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to note. It is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which generally means it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as polysorbate 80 and carrageenan, which are used as emulsifiers and thickeners. The presence of Red 40 and Yellow 6 are artificial colors that some individuals choose to avoid. The ingredient list also includes sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are preservatives. Individuals with dairy allergies should avoid this product as it contains nonfat milk, cream, and whey. Those managing blood sugar levels should be mindful of the 16.72g of added sugar per 100g.
Is LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN healthy?
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN scored 20/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some Vitamin A and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional factors.
How does LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM compare to other ice cream brands?
Compared to many other conventional ice cream brands, LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in terms of added sugar and fat content. For instance, a comparable serving of Breyers Neapolitan Ice Cream would also likely be high in added sugars and fall into the ultra-processed category. Healthier alternatives in the dairy category might include plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
What is 'vanillin' in the ingredient list?
Vanillin is an artificial flavor that mimics the taste of natural vanilla. While it provides a familiar flavor, it is not derived from the vanilla bean itself. Its inclusion contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification, as it's a food additive rather than a whole food ingredient.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ice cream?
The declared serving size for LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS LOWFAT ICE CREAM, NEAPOLITAN is 0.5 cup. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories and added sugars. Consuming larger portions frequently would further increase the impact of its less favorable nutritional aspects.
Can I eat this ice cream if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, this ice cream would not be an ideal choice for regular consumption. It contains 16.72g of added sugar per 100g, which is a significant amount. For those monitoring sugar, it's best reserved for very occasional treats or avoided altogether in favor of lower-sugar dessert options.