REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 9/100 (Avoid) indicates this product offers minimal nutritional benefit.
Contains 31.67g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
Provides 11.9g of protein and 4.81g of fiber per 100g, which are positive attributes for a candy.
Classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed in very small portions and infrequently due to its nutritional profile.
Scores -6 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
4.81g
17% of Daily Value
Protein
11.9g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.67g
63% of Daily Value
Sodium
83.1mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.8g)+5
Protein (11.9g)+7
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.7g)-25
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 9
REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY scores 9 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high content of added sugar, which is 31.67g per 100g, incurring a significant penalty of -25 points. The product also contains 14.31g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional -10 point penalty, reflecting its formulation with ingredients like hydrogenated vegetable oil and artificial colors. A further -3 points are deducted for concentrated ultra-processed fat. On the positive side, the product does receive bonuses for its protein content of 11.9g (+7 points) and fiber content of 4.81g (+5 points). However, these benefits are outweighed by the substantial penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, and its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a generic unbranded peanut candy, the REESE'S product's nutritional profile is similar, with comparable levels of sugar and fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in reese's, pieces, peanut candy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product contains 11.9g of protein per 100g, primarily from peanuts. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to satiety. While not a primary protein source, the inclusion of peanuts provides a notable amount for a candy product, which can be a small contribution to daily protein intake.
Contains Dietary Fiber
REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY provides 4.81g of dietary fiber per 100g, mainly from its peanut content. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a positive attribute for a sweet snack and contributes to overall fiber intake when consumed in moderation.
Provides Energy
With 500 calories per 100g, this candy offers a quick source of energy. The combination of sugar and fat provides readily available fuel for the body. This can be useful in situations requiring immediate energy, though it's important to consider the overall nutritional density of the food source for sustained energy and nutrient intake.
REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY is typically consumed as a snack or dessert, often in a single serving. It's common to find it in movie theaters, convenience stores, or as part of a candy dish. Due to its high sugar and fat content, portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Consider pairing a small portion of REESE'S PIECES with a source of whole food, like a piece of fruit or a handful of plain nuts, to add more nutrients and fiber to your snack.
Measure out a single serving (1.5 ounces) to help manage intake, as it's easy to overconsume directly from a larger bag.
Use REESE'S PIECES as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack, given its ultra-processed nature and low FoodScore.
Explore alternatives like a small handful of plain roasted peanuts for a similar flavor profile with less added sugar and fewer artificial ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This product lists several allergens, including peanuts, soy, and milk, which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities or allergies. The ingredient list also includes artificial colors (Yellow 5 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Red 40 Lake, Blue 1 Lake), which some individuals choose to avoid. The high added sugar content (31.67g per 100g) means this product should be consumed with caution by individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. Its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) suggests a formulation designed for palatability and shelf-stability, rather than nutrient density.
REESE'S, PIECES, PEANUT CANDY receives a FoodScore of 9/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice. While it provides some protein and fiber from peanuts, these benefits are largely overshadowed by its high added sugar and saturated fat content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How does REESE'S PIECES compare to other candies?
Compared to many other candies, REESE'S PIECES offers a notable amount of protein (11.9g/100g) and fiber (4.81g/100g) due to its peanut base. However, its added sugar content (31.67g/100g) and saturated fat (14.31g/100g) are comparable to or higher than many other sweet treats, such as a standard milk chocolate bar like a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar.
What is hydrogenated vegetable oil?
Hydrogenated vegetable oil (palm kernel and soybean oil) is used in REESE'S PIECES to improve texture and shelf life. This process can create trans fats, though the label states 0g trans fat per 100g. It contributes to the product's saturated fat content and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a reasonable portion size for REESE'S PIECES?
A single serving size is listed as 1.5 ounces. For most individuals, consuming this product in small, infrequent portions is advisable. Due to its high calorie, sugar, and fat content, it's best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Are the artificial colors in REESE'S PIECES a concern?
REESE'S PIECES contains artificial colors such as Yellow 5 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Red 40 Lake, and Blue 1 Lake. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some consumers choose to limit or avoid artificial colors due to personal sensitivities or preferences. They do not contribute to the nutritional value of the product.