FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetPEARL MILLING COMPANY· 1/3 cup

PEARL MILLING BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX, BANANA CINNAMON

PEARL MILLING BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX, BANANA CINNAMON scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its significant amount of added sugar and high sodium content.

  • This pancake and waffle mix receives a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • A single serving contributes 15.6g of added sugar and 955.56mg of sodium per 100g.
  • Compared to generic pancake mixes, this product has higher added sugar and sodium.
  • Consider this mix for occasional consumption, focusing on portion control and complementary ingredients.
  • Scores +13 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
2.2g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
8.89g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
15.6g
31% of Daily Value
Sodium
955.56mg
42% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.2g)+1
Protein (8.9g)+4
Micronutrients (Iron, Phosphorus, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.6g)-20
Sodium (955.6mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 28

The PEARL MILLING COMPANY BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX receives a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, primarily driven by its nutritional composition. The product incurs significant penalties for its added sugar content, which stands at 15.6g per 100g, contributing to a -20 penalty. Additionally, its high sodium level of 955.56mg per 100g results in a -5 penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives a further -10 penalty. While it does offer some positive contributions, such as 2.2g of fiber (+1 bonus) and 8.9g of protein (+4 bonus) per 100g, these are not enough to offset the penalties. The product also earns an +8 bonus for micronutrients like iron (17% DV), folate (27% DV), phosphorus, and riboflavin, which are often added during the enrichment process of bleached wheat flour. Compared to a generic unbranded pancake mix, this specific PEARL MILLING COMPANY product contains a higher amount of added sugar and sodium, which are key factors in its lower FoodScore.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pearl milling banana cinnamon pancake & waffle mix, banana cinnamon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

This pancake and waffle mix provides 3.11mg of iron per 100g, which is 17% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy metabolism. Including sources of iron in the diet can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. While not a primary source, this product can contribute to daily iron intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.

Contains Folate

The product contains folate, providing 27% of the Daily Value per 100g. Folate is a B vitamin vital for cell division and DNA synthesis, making it particularly important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy. Enriched flour, a primary ingredient, is often fortified with folate to help meet public health recommendations. This contribution can be beneficial for individuals looking to increase their intake of this important nutrient.

Provides Protein

With 8.89g of protein per 100g, this mix offers a moderate amount of protein. Protein is fundamental for muscle repair, enzyme production, and overall bodily functions. While this product alone may not provide a complete protein meal, combining it with other protein sources like eggs, milk, or yogurt can enhance the overall protein content of a breakfast, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.

How to eat it

Pancake and waffle mixes are typically used to prepare breakfast or brunch items. A common serving size is 1/3 cup of dry mix, which yields a few pancakes or waffles. These are often consumed with toppings like syrup, fruit, or whipped cream, which can significantly increase the overall sugar and calorie content of the meal.

To improve the nutritional profile, pair your pancakes or waffles with fresh fruit and a source of lean protein like Greek yogurt or eggs.
Consider using half the recommended mix and supplementing with whole wheat flour to increase fiber and reduce processed ingredients.
Be mindful of toppings; opt for a small amount of pure maple syrup instead of high-fructose corn syrup, or use fruit for natural sweetness to reduce added sugar intake.
Prepare a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick, convenient meals during the week, reheating as needed.
Experiment with adding ingredients like chia seeds or ground flaxseed to the batter for an omega-3 boost and additional fiber.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (955.56mg per 100g) in PEARL MILLING BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX, which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure. The product contains enriched bleached flour, which, while fortified, is a refined grain. It also lists artificial flavor and mono and diglycerides, which are common food additives. The presence of buttermilk powder and sodium caseinate indicates that this product contains milk, and it also contains wheat, making it unsuitable for individuals with milk or wheat allergies. The ingredient list also includes palm oil, a saturated fat source, and sugar as the second ingredient, contributing to the high added sugar content.

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Reader questions
Is PEARL MILLING COMPANY BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX healthy?
This PEARL MILLING COMPANY mix scores 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. Its high added sugar and sodium content, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food, are the primary reasons for this score. While it provides some iron and folate, it is not considered a healthy staple for regular consumption.
How does PEARL MILLING COMPANY BANANA CINNAMON PANCAKE & WAFFLE MIX compare to other pancake mixes?
Compared to many generic unbranded pancake mixes, this PEARL MILLING COMPANY product often has a higher amount of added sugar and sodium. For example, some plain whole wheat pancake mixes might offer more fiber and less added sugar, leading to a higher FoodScore. When comparing, always check the nutrition facts panel for sugar, sodium, and fiber content.
What is 'enriched bleached flour' and why is it in this mix?
Enriched bleached flour is wheat flour that has been processed to remove the bran and germ, then bleached and fortified with vitamins and minerals like niacinamide, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. It's used to create a fine texture and is a common base in many baked goods, but it is a refined grain.
What is a reasonable portion size for these pancakes or waffles?
The recommended serving size for the dry mix is 1/3 cup. This typically yields 2-3 small pancakes or one waffle. To manage added sugar and sodium intake, it's advisable to stick to this portion size and be mindful of high-sugar toppings. Consider pairing with nutrient-dense foods to create a balanced meal.
Can I make this mix healthier by adding other ingredients?
Yes, you can enhance the nutritional value by adding ingredients like fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts to the batter. Incorporating a scoop of protein powder or serving with Greek yogurt can also boost protein content. These additions can help balance the meal and increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Is this product suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This product contains wheat and milk ingredients, including enriched bleached wheat flour, buttermilk powder, and sodium caseinate. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or milk allergies. Always check the ingredient list for specific allergens if you have dietary restrictions.

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Data & references