FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeveragePELON· 1 PIECE

PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON

PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON scores 17/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content, which is the primary driver of its low FoodScore.

  • This PELON product receives a FoodScore of 17/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • It contains 49.88g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 1018.75mg of sodium per 100g, this product is high in sodium.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike plain water or unsweetened beverages.
  • Consume this hard candy lollipop in very small, infrequent portions to limit added sugar intake.
  • Scores -15 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
6.2g
22% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
49.88g
100% of Daily Value
Sodium
1018.75mg
44% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.2g)+7
What holds it back
Added sugar (49.9g)-25
Sodium (1018.8mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 17

PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON receives a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The most significant factor contributing to this low score is the high amount of added sugar, with 49.88g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of 25 points. The primary ingredients, sugar and corn syrup, are direct sources of this added sugar. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, resulting in a 10-point penalty. It also contains 1018.75mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a 5-point penalty. While the product does offer 6.2g of fiber per 100g, earning a 7-point bonus, this is not enough to offset the significant penalties. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this PELON product offers minimal nutritional value and is high in components that should be limited in the diet.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pelon, pale rock! hard candy lollipop, watermelon, watermelon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Fiber

This PELON hard candy lollipop contains 6.2g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a small amount to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While this product is not a primary source of fiber, it does offer a notable amount for a candy. Consumers seeking to increase fiber intake should prioritize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Offers a Moment of Indulgence

For individuals who enjoy the taste of sweet and spicy candy, this PELON lollipop can provide a moment of indulgence. In a balanced dietary pattern, small, infrequent portions of treats can be included without derailing overall health goals. The specific flavor profile of watermelon with chili powder offers a unique sensory experience for those who appreciate it.

Convenient for Occasional Treats

As a hard candy lollipop, this product is shelf-stable and portable, making it a convenient option for an occasional treat. Its individual packaging allows for easy portion control, although the serving size itself is high in added sugar. It can be kept on hand for specific situations where a small, sweet item is desired, provided overall dietary intake is otherwise balanced.

How to eat it

PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON is typically consumed as a standalone candy or treat. It is often enjoyed by children and adults as an occasional indulgence, rather than a regular part of a meal or snack routine. The serving size is one piece.

To manage added sugar intake, consider sharing a single lollipop or consuming only a portion of it at a time.
Pair this lollipop with a source of fiber and protein, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption.
Use this product as an infrequent treat rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines for limiting added sugars.
Consider alternative snacks like fresh fruit or a small piece of dark chocolate when craving something sweet to reduce added sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains artificial color FD&C Red 40, which some individuals, particularly children, may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. The high sodium content (1018.75mg per 100g) means that even a single serving contributes significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure. The substantial amount of added sugar makes this product less suitable for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to control blood sugar levels. As a hard candy, there is also a choking hazard for very young children.

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Reader questions
Is PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON healthy?
This PELON product is not considered healthy. It scores 17/100, primarily due to its high added sugar content (49.88g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it contains some fiber, it lacks essential vitamins and minerals, making it a poor source of overall nutrition.
How does PELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP compare to other candies?
Compared to other hard candies like a Jolly Rancher hard candy, this PELON product is similar in its high added sugar content and lack of significant micronutrients. Both are considered ultra-processed treats. The main difference might be in specific flavor profiles and the inclusion of chili powder in the PELON product.
What is 'artificial color FD&C Red 40' and should I avoid it?
Artificial color FD&C Red 40 is a synthetic food dye used to enhance the visual appeal of products. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals, especially children, may experience sensitivities or adverse reactions. Whether to avoid it is a personal choice based on individual tolerance and dietary preferences.
What is a reasonable portion size for this lollipop?
The declared serving size is 1 piece. However, given the high added sugar and sodium content per 100g, a reasonable portion for infrequent consumption would be even less than one full lollipop, or shared. Moderation is key to minimize its impact on overall daily nutrient intake.
Can this lollipop be part of a balanced diet?
This lollipop can be part of a balanced diet only if consumed very occasionally and in small amounts. It should not replace nutrient-dense foods. A balanced diet prioritizes whole, unprocessed foods, and limits items high in added sugars, sodium, and artificial ingredients like those found in this PELON product.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll PELON SKUs Competitor · 82/100Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Competitor · 82/100LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headPELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Head-to-headPELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON vs. LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headPELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON vs. WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER Head-to-headPELON, PALE ROCK! HARD CANDY LOLLIPOP, WATERMELON, WATERMELON vs. GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT

Data & references