FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetSOUR PATCH· 16 pieces (40g)

SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY ASSORTED FRUITS FAT FREE12X5 OZ

SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its **high content of added sugar**, contributing significantly to empty calories.

  • This product scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
  • It contains 43.74g of added sugar per 100g, a substantial amount for a single serving.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed with multiple non-whole food ingredients.
  • Compared to generic soft candies, SOUR PATCH FRUITS is nutritionally similar in its high sugar and lack of beneficial nutrients.
  • Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet due to its nutritional profile.
  • 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
43.74g
87% of Daily Value
Sodium
61.99mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (43.7g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY scores 0 out of 100, primarily due to its lack of beneficial nutrients and high concentration of added sugars. Per 100g, this product contains 43.74g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points in the FoodScore system. Ingredients like sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup are the primary contributors to this high sugar content. The product provides 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and 0g of total fat, meaning it offers no satiety or essential macronutrients. Furthermore, it contains no vitamins or minerals, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. This absence of micronutrients leads to a -15 point penalty for empty calories. Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food, resulting in an additional -10 point penalty. There are no bonuses awarded for any positive nutritional attributes. Compared to a generic unbranded soft candy, SOUR PATCH FRUITS exhibits a very similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar and minimal to no essential nutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in sour patch fruits soft candy assorted fruits fat free12x5 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a quick source of energy

SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY, with its high content of simple sugars like sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup, can provide a rapid increase in blood glucose. This makes it a quick source of energy, which can be useful in specific situations such as during prolonged physical activity or when a rapid energy boost is temporarily needed. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained.

Fat-free option

This product is completely fat-free, containing 0g of total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, SOUR PATCH FRUITS can fit into a dietary pattern where fat consumption is restricted. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile, especially the high sugar content.

Sodium-conscious choice

With only 61.99mg of sodium per 100g, SOUR PATCH FRUITS is a low-sodium food. This can be a consideration for individuals who are monitoring their sodium intake for various health reasons. While it is low in sodium, the product does not offer other significant nutritional benefits that would make it a recommended daily food.

How to eat it

SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY is typically consumed as a snack or treat, often in single servings or shared bags. It is commonly eaten between meals or as a dessert. Due to its high sugar content, portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.

To mitigate the impact of its high sugar content, pair a small portion of SOUR PATCH FRUITS with a source of protein or fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit.
Consider using SOUR PATCH FRUITS as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to manage overall added sugar intake.
Measure out a specific serving size (16 pieces or 40g) to avoid overconsumption and better track your caloric and sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in SOUR PATCH FRUITS, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and may impact blood sugar levels. The ingredient list includes several artificial colors such as RED 40, YELLOW 6, YELLOW 5, and BLUE 1. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience sensitivities or prefer to avoid artificial food dyes. The product is also highly processed, classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. Individuals with diabetes or those managing blood sugar should consume this product with extreme moderation due to the rapid absorption of sugars like corn syrup.

Swap suggestions
Good
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STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
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STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
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SIMPLE MILLS PANCAKE & WAFFLE ALMOND FLOUR BAKING MIX, PANCAKE & WAFFLE
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Good
STRETCH ISLAND STRAWBERRY FRUIT STRIPS, STRAWBERRY
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Reader questions
Is SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY healthy?
SOUR PATCH FRUITS SOFT CANDY is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content (43.74g per 100g) and complete lack of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet.
How does SOUR PATCH FRUITS compare to other candies?
Compared to other popular candies like Skittles or Starburst, SOUR PATCH FRUITS has a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and low in beneficial nutrients. Most soft candies in this category share the characteristic of being ultra-processed and offering minimal nutritional value. For a more nutrient-dense snack, consider options like fruit or nuts.
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 added sugar that contributes to the product's sweetness and texture. Nutritionally, it functions similarly to other simple sugars like corn syrup, providing calories without significant micronutrients.
What is a reasonable portion size for SOUR PATCH FRUITS?
A reasonable portion size for SOUR PATCH FRUITS, as indicated on the label, is 16 pieces (40g). This serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, so consuming more than this in one sitting would further increase your intake of sugars and calories without providing nutritional benefits. Moderation is key.
Can SOUR PATCH FRUITS be part of a weight loss diet?
While SOUR PATCH FRUITS is fat-free, its high calorie count (350.35 calories per 100g) and high added sugar content make it a poor choice for a weight loss diet. Foods high in added sugar can contribute to excess calorie intake and may not provide satiety, potentially hindering weight loss efforts. Focus on nutrient-dense foods instead.

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Data & references