PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its **high content of added sugar** and saturated fat, alongside its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product has a FoodScore of 2/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
A serving contains 32.4g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic sweet cookie, this SKU has similar nutritional drawbacks.
Consider enjoying these cookies in very small, infrequent portions due to their nutrient profile.
Scores -16 points above the sweet category average (18/100 across 97 foods).
Fiber
2.9g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
5.88g
12% of Daily Value
Added sugar
32.4g
65% of Daily Value
Sodium
175.88mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.9g)+2
Protein (5.9g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (32.4g)-25
Saturated fat (11.8g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate earns a FoodScore of 2/100, largely due to its unfavorable nutritional composition. A significant factor is the high amount of added sugar, with 32.4g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. The product also contains 11.76g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a negative score. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional penalty, reflecting its formulation with industrial ingredients and processes. The presence of palm and/or soybean and hydrogenated soybean oil further contributes to the concentrated ultra-processed fat penalty. While there are minor bonuses for its 2.9g of fiber and 5.88g of protein per 100g, and a small amount of iron (23% DV), these are insufficient to offset the significant penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, and its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a generic sweet cookie, this PEPPERIDGE FARM product presents a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pepperidge farm milano cookies dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Iron
This product contributes a modest amount of iron, with 4.12mg per 100g, which is 23% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may have difficulty meeting their needs through other foods. However, this benefit should be weighed against the product's overall nutritional profile.
Offers a Small Amount of Fiber
PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate contains 2.9g of fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not substantial enough to make it a high-fiber food, it does offer a minor contribution compared to many other sweet snacks that contain negligible fiber. This small amount of fiber provides a slight nutritional advantage.
Can Serve as an Occasional Treat
For individuals who enjoy sweet treats, this product can be consumed as an occasional indulgence within a balanced dietary pattern. Its specific flavor profile and texture may satisfy cravings for a dessert. When consumed infrequently and in controlled portions, it can fit into a varied diet without significantly impacting overall nutritional goals, provided other food choices are nutrient-dense.
PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, alongside its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies are typically consumed as a dessert or a snack. A common serving size is 2-3 cookies, often paired with coffee or tea. Due to their high sugar and fat content, portion control is key to avoid overconsumption.
To improve the nutritional balance, pair a small portion of these cookies with a source of protein and fiber, like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit.
Consider enjoying just one cookie to satisfy a sweet craving, rather than consuming multiple, to manage added sugar intake.
Use these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack, reserving them for special moments or infrequent indulgences.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and help with portion control by making them less accessible for impulsive snacking.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens: egg, wheat, milk, and soy, as declared on the label. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier is noted for those with soy sensitivities. Given its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. The product is also high in saturated fat, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their cardiovascular health. As an ultra-processed food, it is generally recommended to limit its intake in a healthy diet.
Is PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate healthy?
No, PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate is not considered healthy for regular consumption. It has a FoodScore of 2/100, primarily due to its high added sugar content (32.4g per 100g) and significant saturated fat. While it offers minor amounts of iron and fiber, these do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks of being an ultra-processed food.
How does PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies compare to other sweet cookies?
Compared to a generic sweet cookie or other branded options like Nabisco OREO Cookies, PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies Dark Chocolate has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. Most products in this category are ultra-processed and should be consumed in moderation as occasional treats rather than dietary staples.
What is 'semi sweet chocolate processed with alkali' in the ingredients?
Chocolate processed with alkali, also known as Dutch-processed chocolate, means that the chocolate has been treated with an alkaline solution. This process is used to reduce the acidity of the chocolate, making it darker in color and milder in flavor. It does not significantly alter the nutritional impact of the chocolate in this product.
What is a reasonable portion size for these cookies?
A reasonable portion size would be 1-2 cookies, especially if you are mindful of your added sugar and calorie intake. The manufacturer's suggested serving size is often higher, but for dietary moderation, smaller portions are advisable. Consuming them infrequently as an occasional treat is also recommended.
Can children eat PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies?
Children can eat PEPPERIDGE FARM Milano Cookies in very small, infrequent portions. Due to their high added sugar and fat content, these cookies should not be a regular part of a child's diet. Excessive consumption of sugary treats can contribute to dental issues and an unbalanced diet, potentially displacing more nutrient-dense foods.