FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoiddairyREESE'S· 4 PIECES

REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER

REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER receives a FoodScore of 4/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • FoodScore: 4/100 (Avoid) due to significant nutritional drawbacks.
  • Contains 36.84g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a major penalty.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Provides 7.89g of protein and 2.6g of fiber per 100g, offering minor bonuses.
  • Best consumed in very small, infrequent portions to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fat.
  • Scores -29 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.6g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
7.89g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
36.84g
74% of Daily Value
Sodium
211.05mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.6g)+2
Protein (7.9g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (36.8g)-25
Saturated fat (15.8g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 4

REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER scores 4/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high added sugar content, which is 36.84g per 100g, incurring a significant penalty. The product also contains 15.79g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to another substantial penalty. The ingredient list includes hydrogenated vegetable oil (palm kernel and palm oil), which is a source of saturated fat and contributes to the product's ultra-processed nature. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to an additional penalty. While the product does offer some minor nutritional contributions, such as 7.89g of protein and 2.6g of fiber per 100g, these are not enough to offset the penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, and its processing level. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides more beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein with less added sugar, REESE'S presents a less favorable nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in reese's, milk chocolate footballs, peanut butter, peanut butter actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Iron

This REESE'S product contributes a modest amount of iron, providing 1.89mg per 100g, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may not get enough from other dietary sources. It is important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on such products for micronutrient intake.

Contains Some Protein

REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER offers 7.89g of protein per 100g. Protein is a macronutrient vital for muscle repair, growth, and various bodily functions. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it provides a small contribution to daily protein needs. The protein likely comes from the peanuts in the product. For a small treat, this can be a minor benefit compared to snacks with negligible protein content.

Offers a Small Amount of Fiber

This product contains 2.6g of fiber per 100g, which is a minor positive. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The fiber content in REESE'S likely originates from the peanuts. While not a significant source, any fiber contribution is generally beneficial, especially in a product category often devoid of this nutrient.

How to eat it

REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS are typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert. Given their high sugar and fat content, they are not intended as a regular part of a balanced diet. A common portion might be 1-2 pieces, rather than the full serving size of 4 pieces, to manage intake.

To mitigate the impact of added sugar, consider pairing a small portion with a source of protein or fiber, such as a handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single piece slowly, rather than consuming multiple pieces quickly, to enhance satisfaction and control intake.
Use these as an infrequent indulgence rather than a daily snack to keep added sugars and saturated fats within dietary guidelines.
Consider breaking a piece into smaller portions to enjoy over a longer period, extending the treat experience without overconsumption.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains several common allergens, including milk, soy, and peanuts, which are clearly listed in the ingredient statement. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption due to potential severe reactions. The presence of hydrogenated vegetable oil indicates a highly processed fat source, which is generally advised to be limited in a healthy diet. The high added sugar content makes this product less suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. Furthermore, the inclusion of TBHQ and citric acid as preservatives, while generally recognized as safe, contributes to its classification as an ultra-processed food, which some individuals may prefer to limit.

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Reader questions
Is REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER healthy?
REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER is not considered healthy for regular consumption, scoring 4/100. It is high in added sugars and saturated fat, and classified as ultra-processed. While it offers minor amounts of protein, fiber, and iron, these do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks for daily dietary choices.
How does REESE'S compare to a generic milk chocolate bar?
Compared to a generic milk chocolate bar, REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER has similar issues with high added sugar and saturated fat. However, the inclusion of peanuts provides a slight advantage in protein (7.89g vs. typically lower in plain chocolate) and fiber (2.6g vs. often negligible). Both are considered treats rather than staple foods.
What is PGPR (EMULSIFIER) in the ingredient list?
PGPR (Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate) is an emulsifier used in chocolate to reduce its viscosity, making it easier to process and mold. It helps achieve a desired texture and mouthfeel with less cocoa butter. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption by regulatory bodies.
What is a reasonable portion size for REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS?
The declared serving size is 4 pieces, but given the high caloric and sugar density, a more reasonable portion for occasional enjoyment might be 1-2 pieces. This helps manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats, aligning better with dietary guidelines for treats.
Are there any artificial colors in this REESE'S product?
The ingredient list for REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER does not explicitly list artificial colors. The primary coloring comes from milk chocolate and peanuts. The ingredients focus on sugar, cocoa products, and peanut butter components.
How does this compare to a Snickers bar?
REESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER is comparable to a Snickers bar in being a confectionery item high in sugar and fat. Both offer some protein from peanuts. Snickers typically also contains caramel and nougat, which can alter the specific macro breakdown, but both are considered ultra-processed treats to be consumed in moderation.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll REESE'S SKUs Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headREESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headREESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headREESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headREESE'S, MILK CHOCOLATE FOOTBALLS, PEANUT BUTTER, PEANUT BUTTER vs. MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY

Data & references