SOUR PATCH KIDS, SOFT & CHEWY CANDY, CHERRY, CHERRY scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an **ultra-processed food**.
This product receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
It contains 49g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
SOUR PATCH KIDS is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic chewy candies, this product is nutritionally similar, primarily providing calories from sugar.
Consume SOUR PATCH KIDS in very small, infrequent portions to minimize added sugar intake.
Scores -15 points above the sweet category average (15/100 across 1084 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
49g
98% of Daily Value
Sodium
75mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (49g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SOUR PATCH KIDS, SOFT & CHEWY CANDY, CHERRY, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its high concentration of added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 49g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup, all contributing to this high sugar load. Furthermore, its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food results in an additional -10 point penalty. The product also receives a -15 point penalty for being considered 'empty calories,' as it provides 375 calories per 100g with no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron. There are no bonuses for beneficial nutrients, as all essential vitamins and minerals are present at 0% Daily Value. This nutritional profile is consistent with generic versions of chewy candies, which also typically provide calories primarily from sugars with little to no other nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sour patch kids, soft & chewy candy, cherry, cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Rapid Energy
SOUR PATCH KIDS contain simple carbohydrates from sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup. These sugars are quickly absorbed by the body, providing a rapid source of energy. This can be useful in situations requiring an immediate energy boost, such as during intense physical activity or to quickly raise blood sugar levels in individuals experiencing hypoglycemia. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained.
Fits Specific Dietary Restrictions (Fat-Free)
This product is completely fat-free, containing 0g of total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat per 100g. For individuals following very low-fat diets or those needing to strictly limit fat intake for medical reasons, SOUR PATCH KIDS can fit into their diet as a source of calories without contributing any dietary fat. This specific formulation choice makes it suitable for certain niche dietary needs.
Sodium-Conscious Option for Sweets
With only 75mg of sodium per 100g, SOUR PATCH KIDS can be considered a low-sodium sweet treat. For individuals monitoring their sodium intake, this product does not significantly contribute to daily sodium limits. Many other processed snacks and sweets can contain higher levels of sodium, making this a relatively better choice from a sodium perspective, though its high sugar content remains a primary concern.
SOUR PATCH KIDS, SOFT & CHEWY CANDY, CHERRY, CHERRY scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
SOUR PATCH KIDS are typically consumed as a snack or treat, often in a single sitting. They are popular for their sweet and sour flavor profile. Due to their high sugar content, portion control is crucial to avoid excessive intake of added sugars.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like nuts or fruit to slow sugar absorption and provide more satiety.
Consider a small, pre-portioned amount to avoid overconsumption, as the serving size is 21 pieces.
Use as an infrequent treat rather than a regular snack to limit added sugar intake over time.
Swap for whole fruit when craving something sweet to gain beneficial vitamins and fiber.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for SOUR PATCH KIDS relates to its high added sugar content, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and may negatively impact blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes or those at risk should consume this product with extreme caution and consider its impact on their glycemic control. The product also contains artificial flavors and Red 40, a synthetic food coloring. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience sensitivities or prefer to avoid artificial colors in their diet. There are no major allergens declared in the ingredient list, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full label.
No, SOUR PATCH KIDS is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore primarily due to its high added sugar content (49g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It provides minimal essential nutrients, offering mostly calories from sugar.
How does SOUR PATCH KIDS compare to other candies?
Compared to many other chewy candies, SOUR PATCH KIDS has a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and low in essential nutrients. For example, a similar product like Skittles also contains a high amount of added sugar and is an ultra-processed snack. Neither offers significant nutritional benefits.
What is 'invert sugar' in the ingredient list?
Invert sugar is a mixture of glucose and fructose, formed by heating sucrose with water. It is a type of sugar that helps keep the candy moist and prevents crystallization, contributing to the product's sweet taste and texture, and its high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for SOUR PATCH KIDS?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 21 pieces, which is approximately 40g and contains about 20g of added sugar. To minimize the impact of added sugar on your diet, a reasonable portion would be even smaller, consumed infrequently as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
Does SOUR PATCH KIDS contain any vitamins or minerals?
No, SOUR PATCH KIDS contains no significant vitamins or minerals. Per 100g, it provides 0% of the Daily Value for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. It is considered an empty calorie food.