Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES
Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 3/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and ultra-processing.
Contains 45.77g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
Provides 42% DV of Vitamin A, a notable micronutrient contribution.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed in very small, infrequent portions, similar to other candies.
Scores -29 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
3.85g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
3.85g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45.77g
92% of Daily Value
Sodium
77.31mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.9g)+4
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (45.8g)-25
Saturated fat (11.6g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 3
Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES receives a FoodScore of 3 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor for this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 45.77g per 100g. This contributes significantly to the penalty points. The product also incurs penalties for its saturated fat content, with 11.58g per 100g. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. The presence of soy lecithin and artificial flavors, while not directly penalizing, are common in ultra-processed items. While it does receive a small bonus for its fiber content (3.85g) and a more notable bonus for Vitamin A (42% DV), these are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which would score highly due to the absence of added sugars, fats, and processing, this product offers a stark nutritional contrast.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in mars chocolate north america filled hearts chocolate candies actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 42% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports vision health, immune function, and cell growth. While not a primary source of this vitamin, it does offer a measurable contribution, which is uncommon for a confectionery product. This can be a minor point of nutritional intake if consumed.
Provides a small amount of fiber
This product contains 3.85g of fiber per 100g, which is a small bonus to its overall FoodScore. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help with satiety. While this amount is not substantial enough to be considered a 'good source' of fiber, it is present due to ingredients like chocolate and cornstarch. Consumers should not rely on Mars Chocolate North America LLC products as a primary fiber source, but its presence is a minor positive.
Iron contribution
Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES provides 1.38mg of iron per 100g, which is 8% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While this is a modest amount, it contributes to daily iron intake. For individuals seeking to supplement their iron intake, this product offers a small, albeit calorically dense, source.
Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Chocolate candies like FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES are typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert, often in small portions. They are not intended to be a regular part of a balanced diet due to their high sugar and fat content. Common pitfalls include overconsumption, especially during holidays or events.
Pair with a nutrient-dense food like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit to add fiber and protein, which can help moderate sugar absorption.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single piece slowly, rather than consuming multiple pieces quickly, to enhance satisfaction.
Consider these candies as an occasional indulgence, limiting them to special events or infrequent treats rather than a daily snack.
Store out of sight to reduce the temptation for frequent snacking and help maintain portion control.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake if consumed frequently. The product contains several artificial colorings, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. It also contains common allergens such as milk, lactose, and soy lecithin, which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients. Due to its sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The product is also high in saturated fat, which should be considered as part of overall dietary fat intake.
Is Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES healthy?
No, Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES is not considered healthy. It scores 3/100 on FoodScore, indicating it should be avoided as a regular food choice. Its nutritional profile is dominated by high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, and it is classified as an ultra-processed food.
How does Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES compare to other candies?
Compared to many other chocolate candies, such as a standard Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar, this product has a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and saturated fats. Most conventional candies will fall into the 'Avoid' category on FoodScore due to their ultra-processed nature and high caloric density from sugar and fat.
What is 'soy lecithin' in the ingredient list?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, commonly used in chocolate to create a smooth texture and prevent the cocoa and cocoa butter from separating. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption, but individuals with soy allergies should be aware of its presence.
What is a reasonable portion size for these candies?
Given the high added sugar (45.77g per 100g) and caloric density (500 calories per 100g), a reasonable portion size would be very small, perhaps one or two pieces, consumed infrequently. This helps to minimize the impact on daily sugar and calorie intake.
Can I eat these candies if I am trying to lose weight?
While no food is strictly 'forbidden' for weight loss, the high calorie and sugar content of Mars Chocolate North America FILLED HEARTS CHOCOLATE CANDIES makes it a less ideal choice. Frequent consumption could easily contribute to a calorie surplus. If you choose to include it, strict portion control and infrequent consumption are key.