FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoiddairyOPEN NATURE· 0.5 cup

OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA

OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high content of added sugar and saturated fat**, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This OPEN NATURE ice cream scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
  • It contains 15.4g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 10g of saturated fat per 100g, this product exceeds recommended daily limits.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, indicating extensive processing.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
  • Scores -33 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
4g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
15.4g
31% of Daily Value
Sodium
65mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.4g)-20
Saturated fat (10g)-14
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 0

OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption. This score is largely driven by its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. Each 100g serving contains 15.4g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -20 points. Additionally, the 10g of saturated fat per 100g contributes another -14 points due to its impact on cardiovascular health. The presence of trans fat, even at 0.5g, results in a -20 point penalty. The product's classification as NOVA 4, meaning ultra-processed, further reduces its score by -10 points, reflecting its extensive industrial processing. Ingredients like cane sugar and the stabilizer blend (locust bean gum, guar gum) are indicators of this processing. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain milk, this ice cream offers minimal protein (4g) and no fiber, while being significantly higher in added sugars and fats. While it provides some Vitamin A (56% DV) and Calcium (12% DV), these benefits are outweighed by the detrimental components.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in open nature, ice cream, vanilla, vanilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Vitamin A

This OPEN NATURE ice cream provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 56% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source, it can contribute to your daily intake of this micronutrient. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the product when relying on it for vitamin intake.

Contains Calcium

OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA offers 12% of the Daily Value for calcium per 100g. Calcium is a crucial mineral for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Dairy products are generally good sources of calcium, and this ice cream can contribute to your daily calcium needs. It's important to balance this with other calcium-rich foods that have a more favorable nutrient profile, such as plain yogurt or fortified milk.

Occasional Indulgence

While not a nutrient-dense food, this ice cream can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced diet. For individuals who enjoy the taste and texture of traditional ice cream, this product can fulfill that desire in moderation. It is important to be mindful of portion sizes and frequency of consumption to align with overall dietary goals, especially given its high added sugar and saturated fat content.

How to eat it

Ice cream is typically consumed as a dessert or a sweet snack. A common serving size is 0.5 cup, which is half of the nutrient values listed per 100g. Due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content, it's best enjoyed in moderation.

To manage added sugar intake, pair a small portion of this ice cream with fresh fruit like berries, which add fiber and natural sweetness.
Consider using this ice cream as a topping for a homemade fruit crumble or baked apple, reducing the overall portion of ice cream while still enjoying its flavor.
If you are monitoring calorie or sugar intake, opt for a smaller serving size than the recommended 0.5 cup to align with your dietary goals.
For a more balanced dessert, combine a small scoop with a higher protein option like a few nuts or a small amount of Greek yogurt.
Things to keep in mind

This OPEN NATURE ice cream contains milk and egg yolks, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to dairy or eggs should avoid this product. The presence of stabilizers (locust bean gum, guar gum), while generally recognized as safe, may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities. Due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or those concerned about cardiovascular health should consume this product sparingly. There are no artificial colors or flavors listed, but the overall ultra-processed nature of the food should be considered.

Swap suggestions
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY
Score85
Very good
OPEN NATURE PEANUT BUTTER DATE BARS, PEANUT BUTTER
Score85
Very good
ONCE AGAIN CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED MAPLE ALMOND BUTTER, CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED
Score84
Reader questions
Is OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA healthy?
This OPEN NATURE ice cream receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), 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 can negatively impact health when consumed frequently. While it provides some Vitamin A and Calcium, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable components.
How does OPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA compare to other ice creams?
Compared to many premium ice cream brands like Ben & Jerry's or Häagen-Dazs, the nutritional profile of this OPEN NATURE ice cream is broadly similar in terms of high added sugar and saturated fat. Most traditional ice creams fall into the ultra-processed category. Some brands offer lower-sugar or lower-fat alternatives, which would have a different FoodScore. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is 'cane sugar' in this product?
Cane sugar is a type of sucrose derived from sugar cane. In this ice cream, it is listed as the third ingredient, indicating it is a significant component by weight. It contributes to the 15.4g of added sugar per 100g, which is a primary factor in the product's low FoodScore.
What is a recommended portion size for this ice cream?
The manufacturer's recommended serving size is 0.5 cup (approximately 65g). This portion contains about 163 calories, 10g of added sugar, and 6.5g of saturated fat. To minimize the impact of added sugar and saturated fat, it is advisable to stick to this serving size or even smaller, especially if consumed frequently.
Can I eat this ice cream if I have a dairy allergy?
No, this ice cream contains cream and skim milk, which are dairy products. Individuals with a dairy allergy should strictly avoid this product. There are many dairy-free ice cream alternatives available that use plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk.
Are the stabilizers in this ice cream safe?
The stabilizers locust bean gum and guar gum are approved food additives. They are used to improve texture and prevent ice crystal formation. While generally considered safe for consumption, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, if they are sensitive to these types of gums, especially in larger quantities.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll Nature Valley SKUs Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headOPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headOPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headOPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headOPEN NATURE, ICE CREAM, VANILLA, VANILLA vs. MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY

Data & references