NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX, HAZELNUT receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This NESCAFE product scores 0/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally beneficial choice.
It contains 45.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 10g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds recommended daily limits for this nutrient.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Scores -33 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45.5g
91% of Daily Value
Sodium
250mg
11% 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 (45.5g)-25
Saturated fat (10g)-14
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
The NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX, HAZELNUT receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutrient profile, which is high in components the Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting. A significant factor is the 45.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing a substantial -25 penalty to the score. The ingredient list begins with sugar and corn syrup, highlighting these as primary components. Additionally, the product contains 10g of saturated fat per 100g, primarily from hydrogenated vegetable oils like coconut and palm kernel, which incurs a -14 penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, adding another -10 penalty. It provides 450 calories per 100g with no protein, fiber, or micronutrients, leading to a -15 penalty for empty calories. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein and calcium, this NESCAFE product provides none of these beneficial nutrients, making it a less favorable choice for daily consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nescafe hazelnut flavor instant coffee mix, hazelnut actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Convenient Beverage Option
This NESCAFE instant coffee mix offers quick preparation for a flavored coffee beverage. For individuals seeking a fast and easy way to enjoy a hazelnut-flavored drink without brewing coffee or adding separate creamers and sweeteners, this product serves that purpose. Its instant format means it requires only hot water, making it a convenient choice for busy mornings or when access to traditional coffee brewing equipment is limited. It can be a practical option for those who prioritize speed and simplicity in their beverage routine.
Offers a Source of Caffeine
Like other coffee products, this instant coffee mix contains caffeine, which can provide a temporary boost in alertness and focus. For individuals who consume coffee for its stimulating effects, this product delivers that benefit. The caffeine content can help to reduce feelings of fatigue and improve cognitive function in the short term. It can be a useful option for those needing to feel more awake or concentrate better during specific times of the day.
Satisfies a Sweet Craving
With its significant added sugar content and hazelnut flavor, this product can effectively satisfy a craving for a sweet, flavored beverage. For some, enjoying a sweet treat can be part of a balanced approach to eating, provided it's consumed in moderation. This instant coffee mix offers a specific flavor profile that many find appealing, allowing for a moment of indulgence. It can be a way to enjoy a dessert-like drink without preparing a more elaborate sweet item.
NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX, HAZELNUT receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX is typically consumed as a hot beverage, often in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up. The standard serving size is 2 tablespoons, mixed with hot water. Due to its high sugar and fat content, it's best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider using half the recommended serving of the mix and supplementing with plain instant coffee.
Pair this beverage with a protein-rich breakfast like eggs or Greek yogurt to help balance blood sugar response.
Use this mix as an occasional treat rather than a daily routine to moderate intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
For a less processed alternative, try plain instant coffee with a splash of milk and a small amount of actual hazelnut extract for flavor.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to limit. The presence of hydrogenated vegetable oil (coconut and palm kernel and/or soybean) contributes to the saturated fat content. Individuals with milk allergies should note the inclusion of sodium caseinate, a milk derivative. The product also contains sodium hexametaphosphate and sodium aluminosilicate, which are common food additives. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with sensitivities to food additives may experience discomfort. Due to the high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake.
Is NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, this NESCAFE product is not considered a healthy choice. It is high in added sugars and saturated fats, and provides no beneficial protein, fiber, or micronutrients. It is best consumed infrequently as an occasional treat.
How does NESCAFE HAZELNUT FLAVOR INSTANT COFFEE MIX compare to a plain coffee with creamer?
Compared to a plain cup of coffee with a standard creamer like Coffee-Mate, this NESCAFE mix is likely to have a higher amount of added sugar and potentially more saturated fat per serving due to its all-in-one formulation. A plain coffee with a controlled amount of creamer and sweetener would generally offer more flexibility in managing nutrient intake.
What is hydrogenated vegetable oil in this product?
Hydrogenated vegetable oil, specifically from coconut and palm kernel, is used in this NESCAFE mix to provide texture and stability. The hydrogenation process can increase the shelf life of the product but also contributes to the saturated fat content. While trans fats are generally minimized in partially hydrogenated oils today, the saturated fat from these oils is still a concern for heart health.
How much of this instant coffee mix can I have daily?
Given its high content of added sugar (45.5g per 100g) and saturated fat (10g per 100g), it is advisable to consume this NESCAFE product in very limited quantities. The Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. A single serving of this mix would contribute significantly to that limit, so daily consumption is not recommended.
Are 'natural and artificial flavors' a concern?
The 'natural and artificial flavor' listed in the ingredients contributes to the hazelnut taste profile of this NESCAFE product. While these flavors are generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, they are part of what makes this a highly processed food. For those seeking a less processed option, choosing products with whole food ingredients for flavor is often preferred.