RICE KRISPIES TREATS ORIGINAL CRISPY MARSHMALLOW MINISQUARES, ORIGINAL
RICE KRISPIES TREATS ORIGINAL CRISPY MARSHMALLOW MINISQUARES, ORIGINAL scores 23/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This product received a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 36.4g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
Categorized as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 9.1g of protein per 100g, contributing a small bonus to its score.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack option.
Scores -18 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
9.09g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
36.4g
73% of Daily Value
Sodium
454.55mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.1g)+5
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (36.4g)-25
Sodium (454.6mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 23
RICE KRISPIES TREATS ORIGINAL CRISPY MARSHMALLOW MINISQUARES, ORIGINAL received a FoodScore of 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary reason for this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 36.4g per 100g, which incurred a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list prominently features corn syrup and fructose early on, indicating these contribute heavily to the sugar content. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, resulted in a -10 point penalty. While the product does offer 9.1g of protein per 100g and some iron and riboflavin, earning a combined bonus of +9 points, these positive aspects are largely outweighed by the high sugar and processing. The sodium content, at 454.55mg per 100g, also contributed a minor penalty. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product offers minimal fiber and micronutrients beyond the fortified rice cereal components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rice krispies treats original crispy marshmallow minisquares, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Quick Energy
This product is primarily composed of carbohydrates, with 36.4g of added sugar per 100g, which can provide a rapid source of energy. For individuals needing a quick caloric boost, such as after intense physical activity, the simple sugars are readily absorbed. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained, making it less ideal for general daily consumption.
Source of Fortified Iron
The toasted rice cereal in RICE KRISPIES TREATS is fortified, contributing 2.73mg of iron per 100g, which is 15% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral important for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for those who consume fortified cereals regularly.
Convenient Snack Option
As a pre-packaged bar, this product offers portability and convenience for on-the-go consumption. Its shelf-stable nature makes it an easy item to store and grab when time is limited. This can be a practical solution for occasional snacking when other whole-food options are not readily available, fitting into a busy lifestyle.
RICE KRISPIES TREATS ORIGINAL CRISPY MARSHMALLOW MINISQUARES, ORIGINAL scores 23/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
RICE KRISPIES TREATS are typically consumed as a convenient, individually wrapped snack. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten as a quick treat. Given their high added sugar content, moderation is key to fitting them into a balanced dietary pattern.
Pair with a source of protein and fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption and increase satiety.
Consider cutting a single bar in half to manage portion sizes and reduce overall sugar intake per snack.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to minimize the impact of added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness, but avoid refrigeration as it can alter the texture.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed foods. The use of TBHQ for freshness in the vegetable oil blend and BHT for freshness are synthetic antioxidants. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies in small amounts, some consumers prefer to limit intake of such additives. The product also contains natural and artificial flavors, and soy lecithin as an emulsifier. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of milk and soy, as indicated by the 'contains milk' statement and soy-derived ingredients. Due to the high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities.
Is RICE KRISPIES TREATS ORIGINAL CRISPY MARSHMALLOW MINISQUARES, ORIGINAL healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 23/100, this product is categorized as 'Avoid'. It is an ultra-processed snack with a high amount of added sugar (36.4g per 100g). While it provides some iron and protein, it lacks significant fiber and a broad range of micronutrients, making it not align with general healthy eating guidelines.
How does RICE KRISPIES TREATS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to whole-food snack bars like an RXBar, RICE KRISPIES TREATS has significantly more added sugar and is classified as ultra-processed. While an RXBar might also contain sugar from fruit, it typically offers more fiber and protein from ingredients like nuts and egg whites, contributing to a higher nutritional density.
What is 'malt flavor' in the ingredient list?
Malt flavor is derived from barley malt and is used to impart a distinct taste to the toasted rice cereal. It contributes to the overall flavor profile of the product but does not significantly impact the nutritional content in terms of macronutrients or micronutrients. It is a form of sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The serving size is one bar. Given the high added sugar content, consuming a single bar should be considered an occasional treat. For those looking to reduce sugar intake, even half a bar could be a more appropriate portion, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Can RICE KRISPIES TREATS be part of a balanced diet?
While RICE KRISPIES TREATS can be included in a diet, it should be in strict moderation due to its high added sugar and ultra-processed nature. A balanced diet prioritizes whole, minimally processed foods, and this product does not contribute significantly to daily nutrient requirements beyond quick energy from sugars.