POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by a **high amount of added sugar** and a lack of beneficial nutrients.
This POLAR product scores 18/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular dietary component.
It contains 36.91g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
As a NOVA class 2 processed culinary ingredient, it offers minimal nutritional value.
Compared to generic maple syrup, this product contains rice syrup and high fructose rice syrup.
Use in very small portions to minimize added sugar intake.
Scores -24 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
36.91g
74% of Daily Value
Sodium
196.36mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (36.9g)-25
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 18
POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE achieves a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely due to its nutritional profile, which is dominated by added sugars and a notable absence of essential micronutrients. Per 100g, this product contains 36.91g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points in the FoodScore calculation. The ingredient list highlights rice syrup and high fructose rice syrup as primary components, indicating that sugars are the main contributors to its caloric content. Furthermore, the product is penalized -15 points for providing 'empty calories,' meaning it offers calories without significant amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins, or minerals. It contains 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and 0% Daily Value for key micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, B12, and Folate. While it receives a +8 bonus for being minimally processed (NOVA class 2), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded maple syrup, which is primarily sucrose, this POLAR product relies on a blend of different syrups, but both are high in sugar.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in polar syrup, maple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Quick Energy
As a syrup primarily composed of rice syrup and high fructose rice syrup, POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE offers a rapid source of carbohydrates. These simple sugars are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, providing an immediate energy boost. This can be useful for individuals needing quick energy replenishment, such as after intense physical activity, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its high added sugar content. The energy provided is primarily from sugars, without the accompanying fiber or other nutrients found in whole food carbohydrate sources.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
This POLAR product serves as a versatile culinary ingredient that can enhance the flavor profile of various dishes. Its sweet taste and syrupy texture make it suitable for use in baking, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or as a sweetener in beverages. While it doesn't contribute significant nutrients, its role is primarily to add sweetness and moisture, allowing for flexibility in recipes where a liquid sweetener is desired. It can be a convenient option for specific cooking needs.
Low in Fat and Sodium
POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE is naturally fat-free and contains a relatively low amount of sodium, with 0g of total fat and 196.36mg of sodium per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat or sodium intake, this product does not contribute significantly to those dietary components. This makes it a suitable option as a sweetener in recipes where fat and sodium content are being carefully managed, provided the added sugar content is also considered within the overall dietary context.
POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by a high amount of added sugar and a lack of beneficial nutrients.
How to eat it
Syrups like POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE are typically used as a topping for breakfast foods such as pancakes, waffles, and oatmeal, or as a sweetener in baked goods and beverages. Common portion sizes can vary, but it's easy to overconsume due to its concentrated sweetness. The main pitfall is the high amount of added sugar per serving.
Use as a topping for whole-grain pancakes or oatmeal, but measure your portion to control added sugar intake.
Combine with plain Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a more balanced snack, diluting the sweetness and adding protein and fiber.
Consider diluting with water or unsweetened tea when using as a beverage sweetener to reduce the sugar concentration.
Swap for fresh fruit purees or a smaller amount of pure maple syrup when possible to reduce reliance on processed syrups.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE is its high content of added sugar, specifically from rice syrup and high fructose rice syrup. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small quantities, as it can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose. There are no declared allergens in the ingredient list, and no artificial colors or preservatives are listed. The 'natural flavor' ingredient is generally recognized as safe, but its specific components are not disclosed. For most healthy individuals, the main concern remains the caloric density from sugar without compensatory nutrients.
POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is primarily composed of added sugars and offers minimal nutritional benefits, lacking protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Its consumption should be limited.
How does POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE compare to pure maple syrup?
Compared to pure maple syrup, POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE contains rice syrup and high fructose rice syrup as its main ingredients, whereas pure maple syrup is solely derived from maple tree sap. Both are high in added sugars, but pure maple syrup often contains trace minerals that are absent in this POLAR product. For example, a brand like Crown Maple offers pure maple syrup.
What is 'high fructose rice syrup'?
High fructose rice syrup is a sweetener derived from rice starch that has undergone enzymatic processing to convert some of its glucose into fructose. It functions similarly to high-fructose corn syrup, providing sweetness and contributing to the overall sugar content of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this syrup?
The declared serving size is 4 Tbsp, which contains a significant amount of added sugar. To minimize your intake of added sugars, a more reasonable portion might be 1-2 tablespoons, especially if you are using it as a topping. Consider the total daily sugar intake from all sources.
Can I use this syrup in baking instead of sugar?
Yes, POLAR SYRUP, MAPLE can be used in baking as a liquid sweetener. However, remember that it contributes a high amount of added sugar and moisture to your recipes. You may need to adjust other liquid ingredients to maintain the desired consistency. It will primarily add sweetness without significant nutritional contribution.