PILLSBURY, FUNFETTI, PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX WITH CANDY BITS
PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX WITH CANDY BITS scores 12/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
This product scores 12/100 on FoodScore, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
A single serving contains 35g 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 generic sugar cookie mixes, this PILLSBURY product has similar nutritional drawbacks.
Consume this product in very small portions and infrequently to minimize its impact on your diet.
Scores -3 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
678.57mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (35g)-25
Sodium (678.6mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 12
The PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX WITH CANDY BITS receives a FoodScore of 12 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by several factors. A significant penalty of 25 points is applied due to the high amount of added sugar, which stands at 35 grams per 100g. This amount far exceeds recommended daily limits for added sugars. Additionally, the product incurs a 3-point penalty for its sodium content, which is 678.57mg per 100g. Another substantial penalty of 10 points is attributed to its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ingredients like candy bits (containing sugar, vegetable oil, and modified corn starch) and various gums contribute to this classification. The product offers no significant nutritional bonuses, as it contains 0g of protein, fiber, and omega-3s, and provides 0% DV for essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins. When compared to a generic unbranded sugar cookie mix, this PILLSBURY product exhibits a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar and minimal beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pillsbury, funfetti, premium sugar cookie mix with candy bits actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
This product primarily offers carbohydrates from sugar and starches, which the body can use as a quick source of energy. With 392.86 calories per 100g, it can provide a rapid caloric boost. However, this energy comes with minimal accompanying nutrients, making it a less ideal choice for sustained energy compared to whole food sources. It can be useful in situations where a quick, high-calorie intake is needed, such as for athletes during intense activity, but should not be a primary energy source.
Convenient for Occasional Treats
The PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX offers convenience for baking a celebratory or occasional treat. Its pre-mixed format simplifies the baking process, making it accessible for those with limited time or baking experience. While not a health-promoting food, it can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in very small, infrequent portions as a dessert. The ease of preparation allows for quick enjoyment of a sweet item.
Gluten-Free Formulation
This product is formulated with rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch instead of wheat flour, making it suitable for individuals avoiding gluten. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this cookie mix provides an option to enjoy a classic sugar cookie. While it addresses a specific dietary need, it is important to remember that being gluten-free does not inherently make a product healthier, especially given its high sugar and ultra-processed nature.
PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX WITH CANDY BITS scores 12/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
This cookie mix is typically used to bake sugar cookies for desserts or special occasions. Consumers often prepare the entire batch, leading to larger portion sizes. It's commonly enjoyed as a sweet treat after meals or during gatherings.
To manage added sugar intake, consider baking smaller cookies or reducing the amount of mix used per cookie.
Pair these cookies with a source of protein or fiber, such as a small glass of milk or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption.
Serve these cookies as an occasional treat rather than a regular dessert to align with dietary guidelines for added sugars.
Consider using only half the candy bits packet to reduce the overall sugar content and artificial colors.
Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and help control portioning over time.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several aspects of PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX. The product contains artificial food colors such as Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 6, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. It also includes soy lecithin, an emulsifier derived from soy, which is a common allergen. While the product is gluten-free, it is important for individuals with other allergies to carefully review the ingredient list. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very limited quantities. The ultra-processed nature of the mix, indicated by its NOVA class 4 classification, suggests a formulation with numerous industrial ingredients and minimal whole food components.
Is PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX healthy?
No, PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX is not considered healthy. It scores 12/100 on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content (35g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It offers minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
How does PILLSBURY FUNFETTI PREMIUM SUGAR COOKIE MIX compare to other cookie mixes?
Compared to a generic unbranded sugar cookie mix, this PILLSBURY product has a similar nutritional profile characterized by high added sugar and low beneficial nutrients. For instance, a Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix would likely present comparable nutritional challenges, emphasizing that most conventional cookie mixes are designed as treats rather than nutrient-dense foods.
What is 'candy bits' in the ingredient list?
The 'candy bits' in the ingredient list are small pieces of confectionery primarily made from sugar, vegetable oil (palm and palm kernel), modified corn starch, and artificial colors. They contribute to the product's high sugar content and its ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for these cookies?
A reasonable portion size for these cookies, given their high sugar and calorie content, would be one small cookie, consumed infrequently. The serving size listed is 2 cookies (0.05 package), but even this should be considered an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet to manage added sugar intake.
Can I make these cookies lower in sugar?
While the mix itself is high in sugar, you can slightly reduce the overall sugar by using only a portion of the included candy bits or by adding less frosting if you typically use it. However, the base mix remains high in added sugar, so significant reduction is not possible without altering the recipe entirely.
Is this product suitable for children?
Due to its high added sugar content and artificial colors, this product should be given to children sparingly and in very small portions. Limiting ultra-processed foods and high sugar items is generally recommended for children's diets to promote healthier eating habits and nutrient intake.