FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidgrainPOP TARTS· 2 Pastries

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES FLAVORED TOASTER PASTRIES, FROSTED S'MORES

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries receive a FoodScore of 17/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This product scores 17/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
  • Each 100g serving contains 34.4g of added sugar, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • With 1g of fiber per 100g, it offers considerably less fiber than a generic whole-grain equivalent.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food, which impacts its overall nutritional value.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a staple breakfast item.
  • Scores -30 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
5.21g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
34.4g
69% of Daily Value
Sodium
406.25mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.2g)+1
Micronutrients (Riboflavin)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (34.4g)-25
Sodium (406.3mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 17

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries achieve a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, with 34.4g per 100g, resulting in a significant penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and dextrose are listed prominently, indicating their contribution to the sweetness. The product's classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs an additional -10 point penalty. While it receives minor bonuses for its protein content (5.2g) and the presence of Riboflavin, these are insufficient to offset the penalties. The sodium content, at 406.25mg per 100g, also contributes a -1 point penalty. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product offers considerably less fiber and a higher concentration of added sugars and processed ingredients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pop tarts frosted s'mores flavored toaster pastries, frosted s'mores actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Quick Energy

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries are a source of carbohydrates, providing 385.42 calories per 100g. This can offer rapid energy for individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as before a short, intense activity or when immediate fuel is required. The combination of simple sugars and enriched flour allows for fast absorption into the bloodstream. However, this energy is short-lived due to the lack of significant fiber or protein to slow digestion.

Source of Fortified B Vitamins

This product is made with enriched flour, which means it has been fortified with certain B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin mononitrate (Vitamin B1), and riboflavin (Vitamin B2), along with folic acid. These B vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism and maintaining overall cellular health. While not a primary source of micronutrients, the fortification helps to address potential dietary gaps in these specific vitamins, contributing a small bonus to its FoodScore.

Convenient and Shelf-Stable Option

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries offer convenience as a ready-to-eat, shelf-stable item that requires minimal preparation. This can be beneficial in situations where access to fresh food or cooking facilities is limited, such as during travel or as an emergency food item. Its long shelf life and portability make it a practical choice for specific, infrequent use cases, fitting into routines where time is a significant constraint.

How to eat it

POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries are typically consumed as a quick breakfast or snack, often toasted. A common serving is two pastries. Due to their high sugar content, they are best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily dietary staple.

Pair with a source of protein and fiber, such as a hard-boiled egg or a handful of almonds, to help balance blood sugar response.
Consider consuming only one pastry instead of the full two-pastry serving to reduce sugar and calorie intake.
Use as an occasional dessert rather than a breakfast item, especially when craving something sweet.
Combine with a piece of fruit like an apple or berries to add dietary fiber and additional vitamins.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware that POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES contain several common allergens, including wheat, milk, soy, and egg whites. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of high fructose corn syrup and a significant amount of added sugar means this product is not suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The use of TBHQ for freshness in the soybean and palm oil is a preservative that some individuals may prefer to limit. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives and artificial flavors, which some consumers may wish to minimize in their diet.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti
Score85
Very good
BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL
Score85
Very good
Jovial Organic Whole Grain Einkorn Penne
Score85
Very good
Jovial Organic Einkorn Spaghetti
Score85
Very good
JOVIAL WHOLE WHEAT PASTA RIGATONI
Score85
Very good
LIDL ORIGINAL WHOLE GRAIN SHREDDED WHEAT CEREAL, ORIGINAL
Score85
Reader questions
Is POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES healthy?
POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES toaster pastries received a FoodScore of 17/100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to their high added sugar content (34.4g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food. While they provide some fortified B vitamins, they lack significant fiber and other essential micronutrients, making them a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
How does POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES compare to other breakfast pastries?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES contain significantly more added sugar and less dietary fiber. For instance, a whole-grain toast with fruit would offer more fiber and complex carbohydrates. When compared to other branded toaster pastries like some varieties of Nature Valley bars, POP TARTS may have a higher sugar content and be more ultra-processed, depending on the specific Nature Valley product.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES, along with sugar and dextrose, to provide sweetness and contribute to the product's texture and shelf stability. Its presence is a significant factor in the product's high added sugar content, which contributes to its low FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES is two pastries. However, given the high added sugar and calorie content, consuming just one pastry could be a more moderate approach, especially if you are monitoring your sugar intake. This product is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Can I eat POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES if I'm trying to lose weight?
While any food can fit into a weight management plan in moderation, POP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES are calorie-dense (385.42 calories per 100g) and high in added sugar, with minimal fiber or protein to promote satiety. For weight loss, focusing on foods with higher nutrient density and fiber, which promote fullness, is generally more effective. This product is best reserved for infrequent consumption.

Explore more

CategoryAll grains & breads BrandAll Pop-Tarts SKUs Competitor · 85/100Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Competitor · 85/100BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headPOP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES FLAVORED TOASTER PASTRIES, FROSTED S'MORES vs. Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Head-to-headPOP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES FLAVORED TOASTER PASTRIES, FROSTED S'MORES vs. BETTER OATS ORIGINAL STEEL CUT INSTANT OATMEAL WITH FLAX SEEDS, ORIGINAL Head-to-headPOP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES FLAVORED TOASTER PASTRIES, FROSTED S'MORES vs. Jovial Organic Whole Grain Einkorn Penne Head-to-headPOP TARTS FROSTED S'MORES FLAVORED TOASTER PASTRIES, FROSTED S'MORES vs. Jovial Organic Einkorn Spaghetti

Data & references