The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar receives a FoodScore of 12/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven down by the **high content of added sugar** and **saturated fat**.
FoodScore: 12/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 48.8g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Provides 2.3g of fiber and 7.0g of protein per 100g, offering minor nutritional benefits.
This bar is a NOVA class 3 processed food, similar to other confectionery items.
Best consumed as an occasional treat in very small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -6 points above the sweet category average (18/100 across 97 foods).
Fiber
2.3g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
6.98g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
48.8g
98% of Daily Value
Sodium
80.93mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.3g)+1
Protein (7.0g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (48.8g)-25
Saturated fat (18.6g)-15
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 12
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar achieved a FoodScore of 12 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely a result of its nutrient composition, particularly the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. The product contains 48.8g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Similarly, its 18.6g of saturated fat per 100g leads to a -15 point penalty. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it also receives a -5 point penalty. On the positive side, the bar does offer some minor nutritional contributions, including 2.3g of fiber (+1 point) and 7.0g of protein (+2 points) per 100g. It also provides some micronutrients, specifically 14% DV for calcium and 21% DV for iron per 100g, which collectively add +4 points. However, these small bonuses are substantially outweighed by the penalties from added sugar and saturated fat. Compared to a generic unbranded version of a similar sweet, the HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar aligns with the typical nutritional profile for this category, characterized by high caloric density and limited micronutrient diversity.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hershey's mounds bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar provides 3.72mg of iron per 100g, which is 21% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various cellular functions. While not a primary source, consuming a portion of this bar can contribute a small amount towards daily iron needs, especially for individuals who might be looking to supplement their intake from diverse food sources. It's important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on such items for micronutrients.
Source of Calcium
This product contains 186.05mg of calcium per 100g, providing 14% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. The presence of milk in the ingredients, such as MILK CHOCOLATE, contributes to this calcium content. While a single bar won't meet daily calcium requirements, it can be a minor contributor within a balanced diet that includes other calcium-rich foods.
Provides a Small Amount of Fiber
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar offers 2.3g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not substantial, it is a noteworthy inclusion for a confectionery item. Consumers should aim for higher fiber sources from whole foods, but this product does provide a minimal contribution to daily fiber intake.
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar receives a FoodScore of 12/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven down by the high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar is typically consumed as a dessert or a snack. Its sweet and rich profile makes it suitable for occasional indulgence. A common portion is one bar, which is also the serving size. Due to its high sugar and fat content, it's generally not recommended as a regular part of a daily diet.
Consider sharing a single bar to reduce the portion size and moderate intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Pair with a source of protein and fiber, such as a handful of almonds or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption.
Enjoy this bar as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines for added sugar.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality; avoid refrigeration as it can affect the chocolate texture.
Things to keep in mind
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar contains several ingredients that consumers should be aware of. The primary allergen present is MILK, due to the milk chocolate, and SOY, from the lecithin (soy) emulsifier. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The high amount of added sugar is a significant concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes. While not explicitly listed, cross-contamination with peanuts or tree nuts is possible in facilities that process multiple products, which is a common practice in confectionery manufacturing. The ingredient PGPR (polyglycerol polyricinoleate) is an emulsifier used to reduce chocolate viscosity, generally recognized as safe, but some individuals prefer to limit highly processed ingredients.
The HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar has a FoodScore of 12/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its nutritional profile is characterized by high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, which are components the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting. While it offers some iron and calcium, these are outweighed by less beneficial nutrients.
How does HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar compare to other candy bars?
Compared to other popular candy bars like a Snickers Bar, the HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar typically has a similar profile in terms of high added sugar and saturated fat. Specific nutrient values can vary, but most confectionery items fall into the 'Avoid' category on FoodScore due to their caloric density and limited micronutrient contribution relative to their sugar and fat content. It's generally comparable to other chocolate-based treats.
What is PGPR in the ingredient list?
PGPR, or polyglycerol polyricinoleate, is an emulsifier derived from castor beans. In chocolate products like the HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar, it helps to reduce the viscosity of the chocolate, making it easier to process and mold. This allows for a smoother texture and can reduce the amount of cocoa butter needed. It is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size for the HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar is one bar. However, given its high added sugar (48.8g per 100g) and saturated fat (18.6g per 100g) content, a more reasonable portion for occasional indulgence might be half a bar or even less. This helps to moderate the intake of less beneficial nutrients while still allowing for the enjoyment of the treat.
Does this bar contain any artificial flavors or colors?
Based on the ingredient list provided, the HERSHEY'S Mounds Bar contains 'NATURAL FLAVOR' rather than artificial flavors. There are also no artificial colors listed in the ingredients. Consumers looking to avoid artificial additives may find this aspect of the product's formulation preferable, though it remains a highly processed food.