PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS, CARAMEL CHIPS AND COCONUT FLAKES IN THE MIX
PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS, CARAMEL CHIPS AND COCONUT FLAKES IN THE MIX receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This PILLSBURY blondie mix scores 9/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
It contains 48.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this mix offers minimal nutritional value.
Portion control is important when consuming this product due to its caloric density.
Scores -23 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.03g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
48.5g
97% of Daily Value
Sodium
166.97mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (48.5g)-25
Saturated fat (6.1g)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 9
The PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS, CARAMEL CHIPS AND COCONUT FLAKES IN THE MIX receives a FoodScore of 9/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, which is 48.5g per 100g. This contributes a significant -25 penalty to the overall score. Additionally, the product contains 6.1g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -6 penalty. The ingredient list includes wheat flour, sugar, and various chips, indicating a formulation that is far from a whole food. The presence of ingredients like maltodextrin and natural flavors, along with its overall composition, classifies this product as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 penalty. There are no bonus points awarded for beneficial nutrients as it provides 0g of fiber, 0g of omega-3s, and 0% DV for key micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins. In contrast, a reference baseline like plain sparkling water contains no calories, sugar, or fat, highlighting the significant nutritional difference.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pillsbury caramel & coconut blondie mix with chocolate chips, caramel chips and coconut flakes in the mix actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
This blondie mix, when prepared, offers a caloric contribution of 424.24 calories per 100g. For individuals needing a quick energy source, such as after intense physical activity or for those with higher caloric needs, this product can help meet those requirements. However, it is important to consider the source of these calories, which are primarily from sugar and refined carbohydrates, rather than nutrient-dense whole foods.
Convenience for Baking
The PILLSBURY blondie mix provides a convenient option for home baking, simplifying the process of making a dessert. For individuals with limited time or baking experience, a pre-mixed product can be a practical solution to create a treat. This allows for a quick preparation without needing to measure multiple individual ingredients, making it accessible for occasional use.
Occasional Indulgence
As a dessert item, this product can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced diet. Enjoying foods like this in moderation can be part of a healthy relationship with food, allowing for flexibility and enjoyment without strict deprivation. The key is to manage portion sizes and frequency of consumption to align with overall dietary goals.
PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS, CARAMEL CHIPS AND COCONUT FLAKES IN THE MIX receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
This PILLSBURY blondie mix is intended for baking at home to create a dessert. It is typically prepared according to package directions and consumed as a sweet treat. Common pitfalls include over-serving portions and frequent consumption, which can contribute to excessive intake of added sugars and calories.
To manage added sugar intake, consider serving smaller portions of the prepared blondies.
Pair a small piece with a source of protein and fiber, such as plain Greek yogurt or fresh fruit, to help with satiety.
Limit consumption to special occasions or infrequent treats rather than a regular dessert option.
Consider adding nuts or seeds to the mix for additional healthy fats and fiber, if desired.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several ingredients in PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX. The product contains wheat flour, which is an allergen for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It also includes soy lecithin, an emulsifier derived from soy, which is another common allergen. Furthermore, the presence of whole milk and nonfat dry milk in the caramel flavored chips means this product is not suitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The high added sugar content (48.5g per 100g) is a significant consideration for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, as it can lead to rapid spikes. The product is also high in saturated fat, which some individuals may need to limit for cardiovascular health reasons.
No, with a FoodScore of 9/100, PILLSBURY CARAMEL & COCONUT BLONDIE MIX is not considered a healthy choice. It is high in added sugar (48.5g per 100g) and saturated fat (6.1g per 100g), and provides minimal beneficial micronutrients or fiber. It is best consumed as an occasional treat in small portions.
How does PILLSBURY blondie mix compare to other dessert mixes?
Compared to other dessert mixes like Duncan Hines brownie mix, PILLSBURY blondie mix will likely have a similar nutritional profile, often being high in added sugars and refined grains. Most conventional dessert mixes fall into the ultra-processed category and should be consumed in moderation. Always check the specific nutrition label for direct comparison.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this mix?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in processed foods. In this mix, it likely contributes to the texture and stability of the product. It has a high glycemic index, meaning it can quickly raise blood sugar levels.
What is a reasonable portion size for this blondie mix?
The serving size is listed as 0.083 PACKAGE, which translates to a small portion of the prepared blondies. Given its high caloric density and sugar content, adhering to the suggested serving size or even smaller portions is advisable to manage intake of added sugars and calories.
Can I make this blondie mix healthier by adding other ingredients?
While you can add ingredients like nuts or seeds to increase fiber and healthy fats, the fundamental nutritional profile of the mix, particularly its high added sugar and refined carbohydrate content, will remain. These additions can slightly improve the overall nutrient density but won't transform it into a 'healthy' food.