FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorsnackON· 3 Pieces

ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET

ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET scores 42/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and contributions from saturated fat, despite a notable protein content.

  • This ON product received a FoodScore of 42/100, classifying it as Poor.
  • It provides a significant 32.26g of protein per 100g serving.
  • A key concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is ultra-processed.
  • Compared to a whole-food snack, this product offers less fiber and more artificial ingredients.
  • Consider this product as an occasional protein supplement rather than a daily snack.
  • Scores +1 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
32.26g
65% of Daily Value
Added sugar
4.8g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
258.06mg
11% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (32.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (4.8g)-4
Saturated fat (6.5g)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 42

ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET earns a FoodScore of 42/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score reflects a combination of nutritional attributes and processing level. The product receives a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 32.26g per 100g, which contributes +10 points. Additionally, it offers 467.74mg of calcium (36% DV), adding +2 points for micronutrients. However, several factors contribute to its low overall score. It contains 4.8g of added sugar, resulting in a -4 point penalty. The saturated fat content of 6.45g per 100g leads to a -6 point penalty. A major detractor is its classification as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 point penalty. Ingredients like maltitol, palm kernel oil, and artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1) are indicative of this processing level. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this ON product lacks fiber (0g) and contains a higher number of non-nutritive ingredients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in on red velvet protein cake bites, red velvet actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Protein Intake

This product is formulated with a protein blend including milk protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate, delivering 32.26g of protein per 100g. This can be beneficial for individuals looking to increase their daily protein intake, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and overall metabolic health. For those with higher protein needs, such as athletes or active individuals, this can serve as a convenient way to meet those requirements.

Source of Calcium

ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES provides 467.74mg of calcium per 100g, which is 36% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a crucial mineral for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. While it should not be the sole source of calcium in a diet, this product can contribute meaningfully to daily calcium goals, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy or other calcium-rich foods regularly. The milk protein concentrate and milk protein isolate contribute to this mineral content.

Convenient Snack Option

For individuals with busy schedules or limited access to whole food options, this product offers a convenient and portable source of protein. Its pre-portioned format makes it easy to consume on the go, fitting into a routine where a quick protein boost is needed. While not a substitute for whole foods, it can serve as a practical option for post-workout recovery or as a bridge between meals to help manage hunger.

How to eat it

Protein cake bites like this ON product are typically consumed as a post-workout snack or a convenient protein boost between meals. The serving size is 3 pieces, which can be eaten directly from the package. It's important to consider these as a supplement to a balanced diet rather than a primary food source.

Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and micronutrients that are lacking in the cake bites.
Use as a recovery snack after exercise to aid muscle repair, leveraging its high protein content.
Be mindful of the serving size; consuming more than 3 pieces will increase intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Consider these for occasional use rather than a daily staple due to their ultra-processed nature.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware that ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET contains several artificial ingredients. The presence of artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1) may be a concern for some individuals, particularly those sensitive to food dyes. The sweetener maltitol is a sugar alcohol that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhea, in some people when consumed in larger quantities. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of milk and soy, as indicated by ingredients like milk protein concentrate and soy lecithin. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a formulation with ingredients that may not contribute to long-term health when consumed frequently.

Swap suggestions
Very good
ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA
Score85
Very good
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA
Score85
Very good
BEECH-NUT ORIGINAL CRISPEAS BAKED PEA PUFFS, ORIGINAL
Score85
Reader questions
Is ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES healthy?
This ON product scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers a substantial 32.26g of protein and 36% DV of calcium per 100g, it is also an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) with added sugars and artificial ingredients. It can fit into a diet as an occasional protein supplement, but it is not a primary source of whole-food nutrition.
How does ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES compare to other protein snacks?
Compared to a whole-food protein snack like a handful of almonds or a hard-boiled egg, this ON product is significantly more processed and contains artificial ingredients. When compared to other protein bars or bites, such as a Quest Bar, it offers a similar high protein content but may differ in its specific blend of sweeteners and fats. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts for a direct comparison.
What is maltitol, and should I be concerned about it?
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in this product. It provides fewer calories than sugar but can have a laxative effect if consumed in large amounts. For most people, moderate consumption is generally well-tolerated, but individuals with sensitive digestive systems may experience discomfort.
How many ON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES can I eat in a day?
The recommended serving size is 3 pieces. Due to its ultra-processed nature, added sugar, and saturated fat content, it is advisable to consume this product in moderation. Limiting intake to one serving per day, or even less frequently, would align with a balanced dietary pattern.
Are the artificial colors in this product safe?
The product contains artificial colors such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. These dyes are approved for use by the FDA. However, some individuals, particularly children, may experience sensitivities or behavioral changes linked to artificial food colors. If you have concerns, it's best to limit consumption.

Explore more

CategoryAll snacks BrandAll ON SKUs Competitor · 66/100AMERICAN HEART HEALTHY MIX Competitor · 66/100BARILLA, TORTELLONI, RICOTTA & SPINACH, RICOTTA & SPINACH Head-to-headON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET vs. AMERICAN HEART HEALTHY MIX Head-to-headON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA, TORTELLONI, RICOTTA & SPINACH, RICOTTA & SPINACH Head-to-headON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA, VEGGIE ELBOWS Head-to-headON RED VELVET PROTEIN CAKE BITES, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT JUMBO SHELLS

Data & references