PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This product has a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 45.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered a processed culinary ingredient.
Compared to generic strawberry preserves, this product's nutritional profile is similar.
Use in small portions to limit added sugar intake.
Scores -14 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45.5g
91% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (45.5g)-25
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 18
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES scores 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 45.5g per 100g. This contributes a significant -25 penalty to the overall score, reflecting the recommendation to limit added sugars in the diet. Additionally, the product is penalized -15 for providing empty calories, meaning it offers calories without significant amounts of beneficial macronutrients like protein or fiber, or essential micronutrients. Despite being made with strawberries, the processing into preserves, which includes adding a large quantity of sugar, diminishes its nutritional density. The product does receive a +8 bonus for being minimally processed (NOVA class 2), indicating it's a processed culinary ingredient rather than an ultra-processed food. However, this bonus is outweighed by the high sugar content and lack of other nutrients. When compared to generic unbranded strawberry preserves, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES has a very similar nutritional profile, with comparable sugar levels and minimal micronutrient contributions.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific coast selections strawberry preserves actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES offers 250 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates in the form of sugar. This can provide a quick source of energy, which may be useful for individuals needing an immediate caloric boost, such as athletes during prolonged activity. However, it is important to note that this energy comes without significant accompanying nutrients, making it a less ideal choice for sustained energy or daily dietary staples.
Enhances Flavor in Small Amounts
This product can be used in small quantities to add sweetness and fruit flavor to various dishes. For example, a small dollop can enhance the taste of plain yogurt, oatmeal, or whole-grain toast, making these more palatable. Using it as a condiment allows for portion control, helping to manage the intake of added sugar while still enjoying the flavor profile of strawberries.
Convenient and Shelf-Stable
As a preserve, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES is a shelf-stable product that offers convenience for storage and use. Its long shelf life means it can be kept on hand for extended periods, providing a readily available option for adding fruit flavor to meals or snacks. This convenience can be beneficial for meal planning and reducing food waste compared to fresh fruit with a shorter lifespan.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Strawberry preserves are commonly used as a spread for toast, bagels, or muffins, and as an ingredient in baking or desserts. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon, which can quickly add up in terms of added sugar intake if not portioned carefully.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast or oatmeal to help slow sugar absorption.
Use as a topping for plain Greek yogurt to add sweetness without relying on pre-sweetened varieties, which can have even more added sugar.
Consider using a smaller portion than suggested if you are mindful of your daily added sugar intake.
Mix a small amount into a smoothie with fresh fruit and vegetables to add flavor while still prioritizing whole foods.
Things to keep in mind
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES contains added sugar as its second ingredient, which is the primary nutritional concern. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities due to its high sugar content. The ingredient list also includes citric acid and fruit pectin, which are common food additives generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list. For most healthy individuals, the main caution is simply the caloric density from sugar, which can contribute to exceeding daily added sugar recommendations if consumed frequently or in large portions.
Is PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES healthy?
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES receives a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (45.5g per 100g) and lack of significant beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, or vitamins. While it offers some calories, it does not contribute meaningfully to a nutrient-dense diet.
How does PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES compare to other brands?
Compared to generic unbranded strawberry preserves, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES has a very similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar content. Other brands like Smucker's or Welch's also typically feature high amounts of added sugar in their preserves and jams, making this product comparable within the category. For a lower sugar option, look for fruit spreads with 'no sugar added' or 'reduced sugar' labels, though these may use alternative sweeteners.
What is fruit pectin, and is it safe?
Fruit pectin is a natural fiber found in fruits, used as a gelling agent in preserves and jams. It helps give the product its characteristic thick texture. Pectin is generally recognized as safe and is often considered beneficial as a type of soluble fiber, though the amount in preserves is typically small and its primary role here is structural.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES is 1 tablespoon. Given its high added sugar content, sticking to this portion size or even using less is advisable to manage your daily intake of added sugars. For context, 1 tablespoon would contain approximately 6.8g of added sugar.
Can I use this in baking?
Yes, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS STRAWBERRY PRESERVES can be used in baking to add sweetness and fruit flavor to recipes like tarts, cakes, or cookies. When incorporating it into recipes, be mindful of the sugar already present in the preserves and adjust other sweeteners in your recipe accordingly to avoid an overly sweet final product.