SARA LEE, POUND CAKE SLICES, ORIGINAL scores 12/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This product received a FoodScore of 12/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 24.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food with multiple industrial ingredients.
Compared to generic pound cake, this SKU has similar nutritional challenges.
Consider this product for occasional treats rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -3 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
24.5g
49% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (24.5g)-25
Saturated fat (5g)-4
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 12
SARA LEE, POUND CAKE SLICES, ORIGINAL received a FoodScore of 12 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly the high amount of added sugar. With 24.5g of added sugar per 100g, this contributes a substantial -25 penalty to its score. The product also contains 5g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -4 penalty, and 500mg of sodium, resulting in a -2 penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it incurs an additional -10 penalty. While it does offer 5g of protein per 100g, which provides a +1 bonus, and 1.8mg of iron (10% DV), contributing a +2 bonus, these positive aspects are outweighed by the penalties. The ingredient list begins with sugar and enriched bleached flour, indicating a formulation focused on taste and texture rather than nutrient density. Compared to a generic unbranded pound cake, this SARA LEE product presents a similar nutritional landscape, characterized by high sugar and fat content with limited micronutrient contributions.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sara lee, pound cake slices, original, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Energy
This pound cake provides 375 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates and fats. For individuals needing a quick source of energy, such as before or after intense physical activity, the calorie density can be useful. However, due to its high added sugar content, this energy is not sustained and may lead to a rapid increase in blood glucose levels.
Source of Iron
SARA LEE pound cake contributes 1.8mg of iron per 100g, which is 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While this product is not a primary source of iron, it can contribute a small amount to daily intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Convenient Treat Option
As a pre-sliced and ready-to-eat product, this pound cake offers convenience for occasional indulgence. It requires no preparation and can be easily served. For those seeking a sweet treat without the effort of baking, it fulfills that specific use case, though moderation is key due to its nutritional profile.
SARA LEE, POUND CAKE SLICES, ORIGINAL scores 12/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Pound cake is typically consumed as a dessert or a sweet snack. A common portion size is one slice, often enjoyed with coffee or tea. It is generally not considered a meal replacement due to its limited nutrient density.
To reduce the overall sugar impact, pair a small slice with fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches.
Consider serving with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to add protein and reduce the relative sweetness of the serving.
Due to its high added sugar and saturated fat, consume this pound cake infrequently and in small portions as an occasional treat.
Store properly to maintain freshness, and be mindful of the serving size to avoid excessive calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
This SARA LEE pound cake contains several ingredients that consumers should be aware of. It lists enriched bleached flour, which indicates a refined grain product. The presence of soybean oil and mono and diglycerides, along with soy lecithin, means it contains soy, a common allergen. Eggs, milk, and wheat are also declared allergens. The product is preserved with potassium sorbate and contains natural and artificial flavors, as well as colors like turmeric and annatto extract. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives or those managing specific dietary conditions, such as diabetes, should be mindful of the high added sugar content and consume this product with caution.
SARA LEE, POUND CAKE SLICES, ORIGINAL received a FoodScore of 12/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its score is primarily driven by high added sugar content (24.5g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some iron, it lacks significant amounts of fiber, vitamins, and other essential minerals.
How does SARA LEE pound cake compare to other desserts?
Compared to a generic unbranded pound cake, SARA LEE's product has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and fat. When compared to a dessert like a fruit pie, this pound cake may have a higher calorie and saturated fat content, depending on the specific pie. For example, a slice of apple pie from a brand like Marie Callender's might also be high in sugar and fat, but the exact nutritional breakdown would vary.
What is 'enriched bleached flour' in this product?
Enriched bleached flour is wheat flour that has been processed to remove the bran and germ, then bleached and fortified with B vitamins (niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron. While it adds back some micronutrients, it lacks the fiber and other beneficial compounds found in whole grain flours.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pound cake?
The declared serving size is 1 slice. Given the product's FoodScore of 12/100 and its high added sugar and saturated fat content, consuming this product in moderation and as an occasional treat is advisable. Limiting intake to the stated serving size can help manage calorie and sugar consumption.
Can I serve this pound cake with anything to make it more nutritious?
To enhance the nutritional value of a serving, you can pair a small slice of SARA LEE pound cake with nutrient-dense additions. Consider serving it with a generous portion of fresh berries, which provide fiber and vitamins, or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for added protein. These pairings can help balance the overall nutritional impact of the treat.