PILLSBURY Brownie Mix, Mocha Fudge, scores 17/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This PILLSBURY brownie mix scores 17/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
The primary nutritional concern is the 40.38g of added sugar per 100g serving.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic brownie mix, this product has a similar nutritional profile.
Consume this product in small portions and infrequently to manage sugar intake.
Scores +2 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.85g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
40.38g
81% of Daily Value
Sodium
231.15mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (40.4g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 17
The PILLSBURY Brownie Mix, Mocha Fudge, receives a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, primarily driven by its nutritional composition. A significant factor is the high amount of added sugar, contributing 40.38 grams per 100-gram serving. This substantial sugar content incurs a significant penalty of -25 points in the FoodScore calculation. Additionally, the product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which results in a -10 point penalty. While the product does contain some iron, providing 2.77 mg (15% DV) per 100g, earning it a +2 bonus for micronutrients, this benefit is largely outweighed by the penalties. The ingredient list begins with sugar and enriched bleached flour, followed by cocoa processed with alkali, and contains partially hydrogenated soybean oil, further supporting its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic unbranded brownie mix, this PILLSBURY product exhibits a very similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar content and low fiber.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pillsbury, brownie mix, mocha fudge, mocha fudge actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Iron
This brownie mix contributes some iron to the diet, with 2.77 mg per 100g serving, which is 15% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, for individuals who consume this product, it can offer a small contribution to their daily iron intake, especially when other dietary sources might be limited. It's important to consider the overall dietary context when evaluating this benefit.
Convenience for Baking
For individuals seeking a quick and easy dessert option, this PILLSBURY brownie mix offers significant convenience. The pre-portioned ingredients and simple instructions reduce preparation time and effort compared to baking from scratch. This can be beneficial for busy households or those with limited baking experience, allowing them to prepare a treat with minimal fuss. However, this convenience should be balanced against the nutritional profile.
Occasional Indulgence
Foods like PILLSBURY brownie mix can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced dietary pattern. Allowing for moderate consumption of preferred foods can contribute to dietary adherence and overall satisfaction, preventing feelings of deprivation. The key is to manage portion sizes and frequency, ensuring that such items do not displace more nutrient-dense foods in the regular diet. This approach supports a sustainable and flexible eating style.
PILLSBURY Brownie Mix, Mocha Fudge, scores 17/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Brownie mixes like this PILLSBURY product are typically used to prepare baked desserts, often for special occasions or as an occasional treat. A common serving size for brownies is a small square, and they are usually consumed after meals or as a snack. The primary pitfall is overconsumption due to palatability and large portion sizes.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds to the batter for extra fiber and healthy fats.
Pair a small portion of the brownie with a source of protein or fiber, such as a glass of milk or a piece of fruit, to help balance the meal.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a small portion slowly, rather than consuming large amounts quickly.
Consider baking smaller individual portions using a muffin tin to help with portion control.
Things to keep in mind
This PILLSBURY brownie mix contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of partially hydrogenated soybean oil indicates the potential for trace amounts of trans fats, despite the label stating 0g trans fat per 100g, due to rounding rules. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should note that enriched bleached flour (wheat flour) is a primary ingredient, making this product unsuitable for them. The product also contains natural and artificial flavor, which may be a concern for those sensitive to specific flavor compounds. Given its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. As an ultra-processed food, it is generally recommended to limit intake of such items in a healthy diet.
Based on its FoodScore of 17/100, this PILLSBURY brownie mix is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (40.38g per 100g) and classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers a small amount of iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed infrequently and in small portions.
How does PILLSBURY Brownie Mix compare to other dessert mixes?
Compared to a generic unbranded brownie mix, this PILLSBURY product has a very similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar and low fiber content. When compared to other sweet dessert mixes, such as a Duncan Hines cake mix, the nutritional concerns like high added sugar and ultra-processed nature remain consistent across the category.
What is 'partially hydrogenated soybean oil' and why is it in this product?
Partially hydrogenated soybean oil is a type of fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid at room temperature and extend shelf life. It is used in this brownie mix to contribute to texture and stability. While the label states 0g trans fat, partially hydrogenated oils are a source of trans fats, which are generally recommended to be minimized in the diet due to their potential impact on heart health.
What is a reasonable portion size for this brownie mix?
Given the high added sugar content, a reasonable portion size would be a small square of brownie, significantly less than the 100g serving used for nutritional analysis. The manufacturer's suggested serving size of 0.05 package per container implies a very small portion. Practicing moderation and being mindful of total sugar intake from all sources is key.
Can I make this brownie mix more nutritious?
While the base mix is high in added sugar and ultra-processed, you can slightly enhance its nutritional profile by adding ingredients like chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded zucchini to the batter. These additions can increase fiber, healthy fats, and some micronutrients. However, these modifications do not fundamentally change the core nutritional characteristics of the mix itself.