MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed beverage.
MAXWELL HOUSE Iced Coffee Caramel scores 5/100, indicating it is not a recommended daily beverage.
Each 100g contains 14g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain water, this beverage offers minimal nutritional value and high added sugar.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Scores -27 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
14g
28% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 5
MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL receives a FoodScore of 5 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely due to its nutritional profile, which includes 14g of added sugar per 100g. This amount of added sugar incurs a significant penalty of 18 points, reflecting the Dietary Guidelines' recommendation to limit intake of added sugars. The product also contains 500mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in a 2-point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, contributes a 10-point penalty. Ingredients such as fructose and sucralose are key components of its sweetness profile. The product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients, leading to a 15-point penalty for 'empty calories.' When compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this MAXWELL HOUSE product offers a substantial caloric load (300 calories per 100g) without contributing essential nutrients, making it a less optimal choice for hydration or daily consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in maxwell house, iced coffee, caramel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for a Quick Beverage
This MAXWELL HOUSE product offers convenience as a ready-to-mix iced coffee option. For individuals seeking a quick, flavored coffee beverage without the need for brewing or complex preparation, this product can be a simple solution. Its concentrated form allows for easy storage and preparation, fitting into busy schedules. However, it's important to consider the nutritional trade-offs for this convenience.
Low in Fat
MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL is fat-free, containing 0g of total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, this aspect of the product's nutritional profile may be appealing. While this is a positive, it does not outweigh the product's high added sugar content and lack of other beneficial nutrients.
Alternative to High-Calorie Coffee Shop Drinks
This product can serve as an alternative to higher-calorie coffee shop beverages that often contain substantial amounts of added sugars and fats. When prepared at home, consumers have more control over portion sizes and can potentially reduce overall caloric and sugar intake compared to larger, more elaborate coffee shop concoctions. However, it is still a source of added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed beverage.
How to eat it
MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL is typically used to prepare a cold coffee beverage. Consumers often mix a teaspoon with water or milk, sometimes adding ice. It's commonly consumed as a morning or afternoon pick-me-up, or as a dessert-like drink. The concentrated nature means a small amount goes a long way.
To manage added sugar intake, consider using less than the recommended serving size or diluting it with more water or unsweetened milk.
Pairing this beverage with a protein-rich snack like nuts or Greek yogurt can help balance blood sugar response and increase satiety.
For a less processed alternative, try brewing your own coffee and adding a small amount of natural flavorings and a controlled amount of sweetener.
Use this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage to limit exposure to added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content (14g per 100g) and the presence of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or have concerns about long-term consumption of artificial sweeteners. The ingredient list also includes caramel color, which can be a concern for some due to potential byproducts. The product contains sulfur dioxide (sulfites), which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma. Due to its caffeine content (from concentrated coffee), children and individuals sensitive to caffeine should limit their intake. Diabetics should account for the added sugar when consuming this product.
MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption, receiving a FoodScore of 5/100. It is an ultra-processed beverage high in added sugars and artificial sweeteners, offering minimal nutritional benefits. It lacks protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
How does MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL compare to other iced coffee brands?
Compared to unsweetened iced coffee options like those from brands such as Starbucks (when ordered plain), MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL contains significantly more added sugar and artificial sweeteners. While it offers convenience, many other brands provide options with less processing and fewer additives, or allow for greater customization of sweetness.
What is fructose, and why is it in this product?
Fructose is a type of sugar used as a sweetener in MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL. It contributes to the product's sweet taste and caloric content. While naturally found in fruits, in this context, it is an added sugar that contributes to the overall 14g of added sugar per 100g.
What is a typical serving size for this iced coffee, and how often can I drink it?
The declared serving size is 1 teaspoon. Based on its FoodScore of 5/100 and high added sugar content, this product is best consumed infrequently and in moderation. For daily hydration or coffee intake, unsweetened options are generally recommended.
Does this product contain real coffee?
Yes, MAXWELL HOUSE, ICED COFFEE, CARAMEL lists concentrated coffee (water, coffee solids) as its primary ingredient. This means it is derived from actual coffee beans, providing the characteristic coffee flavor and caffeine content. However, it is combined with various sweeteners and flavors.