FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetMILKY WAY· 2 bars (34g)

Milky Way Bar

The MILKY WAY Bar receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an **ultra-processed food**.

  • MILKY WAY Bar scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
  • It contains 43.23g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • With 13.24g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds recommended daily limits.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, similar to other candy bars.
  • Best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
  • Scores -16 points above the sweet category average (16/100 across 71 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.94g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
43.23g
86% of Daily Value
Sodium
132.06mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (43.2g)-25
Saturated fat (13.2g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 0

The MILKY WAY Bar receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, classifying it as an 'Avoid' food. This score is primarily driven by its unfavorable macronutrient profile and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 43.23g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the high saturated fat content of 13.24g per 100g contributes another -15 penalty points. The presence of hydrogenated palm kernel oil and/or palm oil further contributes to the saturated fat load and the product's ultra-processed nature. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to an additional -10 point penalty. The MILKY WAY Bar provides 0g of fiber and negligible amounts of essential micronutrients like potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins, offering no bonus points. Compared to a generic unbranded candy bar, the MILKY WAY Bar's nutritional profile is very similar, characterized by high sugar and fat content with minimal beneficial nutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in milky way bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Quick Energy Boost

The MILKY WAY Bar is primarily composed of simple carbohydrates from sugar and corn syrup, which are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. This can provide a quick surge of energy, making it suitable for situations requiring an immediate caloric intake, such as during prolonged physical activity or when experiencing a sudden drop in blood sugar. However, this energy is often short-lived and not sustained.

Source of Calories for Specific Needs

For individuals with very high caloric needs, such as athletes undergoing intense training or those struggling with unintentional weight loss, the MILKY WAY Bar can contribute to overall calorie intake. Its compact size and high energy density make it an accessible option for adding calories to the diet. However, it should be balanced with nutrient-dense foods to ensure adequate micronutrient intake.

Convenient and Accessible Treat

The MILKY WAY Bar offers convenience and accessibility as a widely available product. In situations where other food options are limited, it can serve as a readily available source of calories. It is designed for palatability, which can provide a momentary psychological lift or satisfy a craving, fitting into a diet as an occasional indulgence rather than a staple.

How to eat it

MILKY WAY Bars are typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert. They are often eaten directly from the wrapper as a standalone snack. Due to their high sugar and fat content, portion control is key to fitting them into a balanced dietary pattern.

Consider sharing a MILKY WAY Bar to reduce the portion size and overall intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Pair a small piece of MILKY WAY with a source of protein and fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Enjoy MILKY WAY Bars as an infrequent indulgence, rather than a regular part of your daily routine, to minimize their impact on your diet.
Store MILKY WAY Bars in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and prevent melting, ensuring they are consumed as intended.
Things to keep in mind

The MILKY WAY Bar contains several ingredients that warrant attention. It lists milk chocolate, skim milk, lactose, and milkfat, indicating a significant dairy content, which is an allergen for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Soy lecithin is also present, which is a common allergen for those with soy sensitivities. The product contains egg whites, making it unsuitable for individuals with egg allergies. The presence of hydrogenated palm kernel oil and/or palm oil contributes to the saturated fat content and is a highly processed ingredient. Due to its very high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small amounts, if at all.

Swap suggestions
Good
Brownie
Score74
Good
Donut Glazed
Score71
Good
Maple Syrup Pure
Score64
Good
Marshmallow
Score60
Good
Powdered Sugar
Score60
Good
Sugar White Granulated
Score60
Reader questions
Is MILKY WAY Bar healthy?
The MILKY WAY Bar is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high levels of added sugar (43.23g/100g) and saturated fat (13.24g/100g). It provides minimal essential micronutrients and no fiber, making it a food that offers little nutritional benefit.
How does MILKY WAY Bar compare to other candy bars?
Compared to other popular candy bars like a Snickers Bar, the MILKY WAY Bar has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar and saturated fat. Most candy bars fall into the NOVA 4 ultra-processed category and offer comparable low nutritional value. They are generally considered treats to be consumed in moderation.
What is 'artificial flavor' in MILKY WAY Bar?
Artificial flavor in the MILKY WAY Bar refers to chemically synthesized compounds that mimic natural flavors but are not derived from natural sources. These are added to enhance the taste profile of the product. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, they do not contribute to the nutritional value of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for MILKY WAY Bar?
The declared serving size for a MILKY WAY Bar is 2 bars (34g). Given its high sugar and fat content, a reasonable portion for occasional consumption might be one bar or even half a bar. This helps to limit the intake of added sugars and saturated fats in a single sitting.
Can I eat MILKY WAY Bar if I'm trying to lose weight?
While no food is strictly 'forbidden' for weight loss, the MILKY WAY Bar is high in calories (470.59 kcal/100g) and low in satiety-promoting nutrients like protein and fiber. Consuming it regularly could make it harder to maintain a calorie deficit. If you choose to eat it, do so infrequently and in very small, controlled portions.

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Data & references