PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE scores 1/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
This product has a FoodScore of 1/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 35.1g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 12.3g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds recommended daily limits.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food, offering minimal nutritional benefits.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -32 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.51g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
5.26g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35.1g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
61.05mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.5g)+3
Protein (5.3g)+1
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (35.1g)-25
Saturated fat (12.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 1
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 1/100, primarily driven by its nutritional profile. The most significant penalty comes from its high added sugar content, at 35.1g per 100g, which contributes -25 points to its score. This amount is substantial, especially considering the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. Another major factor is the saturated fat content, which stands at 12.3g per 100g, resulting in a -15 point penalty. The presence of organic palm oil in the natural peanut butter and cocoa butter in the milk chocolate contributes to this fat profile. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, incurring a -10 point penalty. While it receives minor bonuses for fiber (3.5g, +3 points) and protein (5.3g, +1 point), these are insufficient to offset the significant penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically offers more protein and calcium with less added sugar and saturated fat, this PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS product provides a less favorable nutritional balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific coast selections peanut butter & jelly flavored milk chocolate, peanut butter & jelly actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Quick Energy Source
This product can offer a rapid source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from sugars. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as after intense physical activity or during prolonged periods without food, the sugars present can be readily utilized by the body. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained, making it less ideal for consistent energy needs.
Source of Iron
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE provides 1.75mg of iron per 100g, contributing 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute a small amount to daily iron intake, which is important for preventing iron deficiency.
Contains Some Calcium
With 121.05mg of calcium per 100g, this product offers 9% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, as well as nerve function and muscle contraction. Although not a significant source, it can contribute marginally to overall calcium intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE scores 1/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This product is typically consumed as a snack or dessert, often as an indulgent treat. Its rich flavor profile makes it suitable for occasional enjoyment rather than a regular dietary component. Due to its high calorie and sugar content, portion control is key.
To mitigate the high sugar content, consider pairing a small portion with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of unsalted nuts or a plain Greek yogurt.
Treat this product as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
If you enjoy the flavor, try making a homemade version with less added sugar and more whole ingredients to create a more nutritionally balanced alternative.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies to milk, soy, or peanuts should avoid this product, as these are declared allergens in the ingredient list. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier is common in chocolate products and is a known allergen. Due to the 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 portions, if at all. The significant amount of saturated fat also warrants consideration for those monitoring cardiovascular health. While no artificial colors or preservatives are listed, the overall ultra-processed nature of the product suggests it should not be a dietary staple.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE scores 1/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It offers minimal essential micronutrients.
How does PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS compare to a standard chocolate bar?
Compared to many standard milk chocolate bars, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY FLAVORED MILK CHOCOLATE has a similar nutritional profile in terms of high added sugar and saturated fat. For example, a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar also contains significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. Both are typically ultra-processed treats that should be consumed in moderation.
What is 'organic palm oil' and why is it in this product?
Organic palm oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fruit of oil palm trees. In this product, it is listed as an ingredient in the natural peanut butter, likely used as a stabilizer to prevent oil separation. While organic, palm oil is high in saturated fat, which contributes to the product's overall saturated fat content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
Given its high calorie, added sugar, and saturated fat content, a reasonable portion size would be significantly less than the 100g reference. For most individuals, consuming half a bar or less would be a more appropriate portion for an occasional treat. This helps to limit the intake of less desirable nutrients.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While technically it can be included, it should only be in very small, infrequent amounts as an occasional treat within an otherwise balanced diet. Its nutritional profile means it does not contribute meaningfully to daily nutrient requirements and is best reserved for indulgence rather than regular intake.