PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies receive a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are the **high levels of added sugar and saturated fat**, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 3/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and saturated fat.
Contains 19.2g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a low FoodScore.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating an ultra-processed food.
Provides 3.8g of fiber per 100g, a minor positive point.
Best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -15 points above the sweet category average (18/100 across 97 foods).
Fiber
3.8g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
3.85g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
19.2g
38% of Daily Value
Sodium
308.08mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (19.2g)-25
Saturated fat (11.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 3
PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies scored 3 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily due to the significant presence of added sugar and saturated fat. With 19.2g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty, reflecting dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake of added sugars. Similarly, the 11.54g of saturated fat per 100g also contributes negatively to the score. The cookies are also classified as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning they are ultra-processed, which further reduces their FoodScore. While the product does offer a small bonus for its 3.8g of fiber and 1.92mg of iron per 100g, these positive contributions are outweighed by the penalties. The inclusion of soy lecithin as an emulsifier is typical for a processed baked good. Compared to a generic unbranded butter cookie, this product's nutritional profile is similar, with comparable levels of sugar and fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pepperidge farm chessmen butter cookies actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies offer 461.54 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates and fats. This can provide a quick source of energy for individuals needing an immediate caloric boost. While not a nutrient-dense option, the caloric content can be useful in specific situations where rapid energy replenishment is required, such as during prolonged physical activity or when a convenient snack is needed to prevent energy dips.
Contains Trace Amounts of Iron
These cookies provide 1.92mg of iron per 100g, which contributes 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While this is not a primary source of iron, it can contribute a small amount to daily intake. For individuals looking to increase their iron intake, focusing on iron-rich whole foods is generally more effective, but this product offers a minor contribution.
Offers a Satisfying Treat
As a butter cookie, this product is designed to be a palatable and enjoyable treat. Foods that provide sensory satisfaction can play a role in a balanced diet by fulfilling cravings in moderation. The rich flavor from butter and sugar can contribute to a feeling of contentment, which can be part of a healthy relationship with food when consumed mindfully and not as a primary nutritional source.
PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies receive a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies are typically consumed as a snack or dessert. They are often enjoyed with coffee or tea, or as a sweet accompaniment to meals. A common portion size is a few cookies, but it's easy to overconsume due to their palatability and small size.
Pair with a source of protein or fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption and increase satiety.
Practice mindful eating by portioning out a small number of cookies onto a plate rather than eating directly from the package.
Consider these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to manage added sugar and saturated fat intake.
Use them sparingly as an ingredient in recipes, such as a crushed topping for yogurt or fruit, to control portion sizes.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies contain common allergens including wheat, milk, eggs, and soy, as declared on the label. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The high content of added sugar and saturated fat means that individuals managing conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease should consume these cookies with caution and in very limited quantities. The presence of dextrose as an additional sweetener contributes to the overall sugar load. This product is not recommended as a primary food source for young children due to its high sugar content and low nutrient density.
Are PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies healthy?
PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies are not considered a healthy food choice based on their FoodScore of 3/100. They are high in added sugar (19.2g per 100g) and saturated fat (11.54g per 100g), and are classified as ultra-processed. While they offer a small amount of fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by less desirable nutritional aspects.
How do PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies compare to other butter cookies?
Compared to a generic unbranded butter cookie, PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies have a similar nutritional profile, including comparable levels of added sugar and saturated fat. When compared to a brand like Lorna Doone Shortbread Cookies, the nutritional content for similar serving sizes is generally in the same range for these types of sweet biscuits, all typically being high in sugar and fat.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' in the ingredient list?
Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had certain B vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron added back after processing. While it restores some nutrients lost during milling, it is still a refined grain, not a whole grain, and contributes to the carbohydrate content of the cookies.
What is a reasonable portion size for these cookies?
A reasonable portion size for PEPPERIDGE FARM Chessmen Butter Cookies would be 2-3 cookies, which is significantly less than the 100g reference amount. This helps to limit the intake of added sugar and saturated fat. Consuming them infrequently as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack is also advisable.
Can I give these cookies to my children?
While children can consume these cookies, it is advisable to offer them in moderation due to their high added sugar and fat content. Prioritize nutrient-dense snacks for children, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These cookies should be considered an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a child's diet.