FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageMARINELA· 1 piece

MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS CREME-FILLED CUPCAKES, CHOCOLATE

MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS CREME-FILLED CUPCAKES score 17/100 (Avoid) due to a very high amount of added sugar, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.

  • MARINELA Pinguinos score 17/100, indicating it is an ultra-processed food to be avoided.
  • Each 100g serving contains 47.5g of added sugar, a primary factor in its low score.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to plain sparkling water, this product offers minimal nutritional value.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary component.
  • Scores -15 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
47.5g
95% of Daily Value
Sodium
300mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Calcium, Zinc, Riboflavin)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (47.5g)-25
Saturated fat (5g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 17

MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS CREME-FILLED CUPCAKES receive a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by the high amount of added sugar, which is 47.5g per 100g serving. This contributes a substantial -25 penalty to the overall score. The product also contains 5g of saturated fat per 100g, incurring a -4 penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), it receives a -10 penalty, reflecting its extensive processing and formulation with industrial ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and various emulsifiers. Further, the presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat adds another -3 penalty. On the positive side, it gains 2 points for 2.5g of fiber, 1 point for 5g of protein, and 6 points for micronutrients such as calcium and zinc. However, these small bonuses are significantly outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this product offers a vastly different nutritional profile, being energy-dense with minimal beneficial nutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in marinela chocolate pinguinos creme-filled cupcakes, chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Calcium

MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS provide 200mg of calcium per 100g serving, which is 15% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. While not a primary source of calcium in a balanced diet, this product can contribute a small amount to daily intake. It's important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on processed foods for micronutrients.

Contains Zinc

This product offers 1.5mg of zinc per 100g serving, contributing 14% of the Daily Value. Zinc is a vital trace mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including immune function and wound healing. While the amount provided is not exceptionally high, it does offer a modest contribution to daily zinc requirements. For optimal health, it is generally recommended to obtain zinc from less processed food sources.

Provides a Small Amount of Fiber

MARINELA PINGUINOS contain 2.5g of fiber per 100g. While this is not a high amount, fiber is important for digestive health and satiety. Most Americans do not consume enough fiber, so any contribution can be noted. However, this product should not be considered a significant source of dietary fiber, and better sources include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

How to eat it

MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS are typically consumed as a dessert or a snack, often individually packaged for convenience. They are a ready-to-eat item, commonly found in lunchboxes or as a quick treat. Due to their high sugar content, they are best enjoyed in moderation.

To balance the high sugar content, pair a small portion with a source of protein or healthy fats, like a handful of nuts or a glass of milk.
Consider these cupcakes as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your daily diet.
If you are looking for a sweet treat, try to opt for smaller portions to manage added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of several ingredients in MARINELA CHOCOLATE PINGUINOS. The product contains common allergens such as wheat, eggs, and milk, and also includes soy lecithin. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The inclusion of high fructose corn syrup and other sugars means this product is very high in added sugars, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels or those aiming to reduce overall sugar intake. Preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium propionate are present, which are generally recognized as safe but may be a consideration for some consumers. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating a formulation with industrial ingredients and additives.

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Reader questions
Are MARINELA Pinguinos healthy?
MARINELA Pinguinos score 17/100, indicating they are not a healthy choice for regular consumption. They are very high in added sugar (47.5g per 100g) and saturated fat (5g per 100g), and are classified as an ultra-processed food. While they offer small amounts of calcium and zinc, these do not outweigh the significant nutritional drawbacks.
How do MARINELA Pinguinos compare to other snack cakes?
Compared to other branded snack cakes like Hostess Twinkies, MARINELA Pinguinos share a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and often classified as ultra-processed. Both types of products are generally intended for occasional consumption due to their high caloric density and low micronutrient density. Always check the specific nutrition facts for direct comparisons.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener used in many processed foods and beverages. It provides sweetness and helps with texture and shelf life. In MARINELA Pinguinos, it contributes significantly to the product's high added sugar content. While chemically similar to table sugar, its widespread use in ultra-processed foods is a point of dietary concern for many.
What is a reasonable portion size for MARINELA Pinguinos?
The declared serving size is 1 piece. Given the high added sugar and calorie content (400 calories per 100g), sticking to this portion size is advisable. For most individuals, consuming this product infrequently and in small amounts aligns with dietary guidelines for managing sugar intake.
Can children eat MARINELA Pinguinos?
Children can consume MARINELA Pinguinos in moderation as an occasional treat. However, due to the high added sugar content, regular consumption is not recommended as it can contribute to excessive sugar intake, which is a concern for children's dental health and overall diet quality. Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods for children's daily diets.

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