LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and the presence of **added sugar**.
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS Half & Half has a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
This product contains 4.67g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its lower score.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
It provides 10% DV of calcium and 37% DV of Vitamin A per 100g serving.
Use in moderation to limit intake of added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Scores +7 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
4.67g
9% of Daily Value
Sodium
83mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (4.7g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF receives a FoodScore of 40/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant 10-point penalty. The product also contains 4.67g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a 4-point penalty. While it is fat-free, the presence of corn syrup and sugar contributes to the added sugar content. On the positive side, it receives a 4-point bonus for its micronutrient content, specifically providing 10% DV of calcium and 37% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which might offer similar micronutrients without the same level of processing or added sugars, LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS Half & Half presents a less favorable nutritional choice.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lucerne dairy farms, fat free ultra-pasteurized half & half actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This half & half provides 37% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Including this product can contribute to your daily intake of this important micronutrient, especially for those who may not consume enough Vitamin A from other sources.
Contributes Calcium
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF offers 10% of the Daily Value for calcium per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, muscle function, and nerve transmission. While not a primary source, regular consumption in typical serving sizes can help contribute to your overall daily calcium needs, supporting skeletal integrity.
Fat-Free Option
As a fat-free product, this half & half can be a suitable option for individuals monitoring their total fat intake. Choosing fat-free dairy products can help reduce the consumption of saturated and trans fats, which are often recommended for heart health. This makes it a viable choice for those looking to limit dietary fat while still enjoying the creamy texture in beverages or recipes.
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF is typically used to lighten coffee or tea, or as an ingredient in cooking and baking. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which is a small amount, but frequent use can add up, especially regarding added sugars.
Use this half & half sparingly in coffee or tea to minimize intake of added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Consider pairing with unsweetened coffee or tea to avoid further increasing sugar content.
For baking, evaluate if a less processed dairy option, such as milk or plain yogurt, could be a suitable substitute to reduce ultra-processed ingredients.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while fat-free, the added sugar content can accumulate with multiple servings throughout the day.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to monitor. The presence of corn syrup and sugar contributes to the added sugar content, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels. Ingredients like carrageenan, mono and diglycerides, and artificial color are common food additives. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to carrageenan. The product also contains natural and artificial flavors, which are often complex mixtures. As a dairy product, it contains milk, which is a common allergen.
LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF has a FoodScore of 40/100, which is considered 'Poor.' This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugars. While it offers some Vitamin A and calcium, its overall nutritional profile is not optimal for regular, significant consumption.
How does LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS Half & Half compare to other creamers?
Compared to a generic full-fat half & half, this LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS product is fat-free, which may appeal to those watching fat intake. However, it contains added sugar and is ultra-processed, unlike some simpler dairy products. For example, a brand like Horizon Organic Half & Half might offer a less processed option, though it would contain fat.
What is corn syrup doing in half & half?
Corn syrup is included in this LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS Half & Half primarily as a sweetener and to contribute to the product's texture and mouthfeel. It is a source of added sugar, which impacts the product's overall nutritional score. Many consumers prefer dairy products without added sweeteners.
What is a typical serving size for this product?
The typical serving size for LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF is 2 tablespoons. While this amount is small, it's important to consider how often you use it throughout the day, especially if you are monitoring your intake of added sugars or ultra-processed ingredients.
Can I use this in recipes that call for heavy cream?
While you can use LUCERNE DAIRY FARMS FAT FREE ULTRA-PASTEURIZED HALF & HALF as a lighter alternative in some recipes, it will not provide the same richness or fat content as heavy cream. This means the texture and flavor of your dish may differ significantly. It's best suited for recipes where a lighter dairy liquid is acceptable.