FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetSOUR PATCH· 12 pieces (30g)

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE12X72 1N

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) for SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY.
  • Contains 56g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • This product offers no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
  • Best consumed infrequently and in very small portions 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
56g
112% of Daily Value
Sodium
83mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (56g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY scores 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its significant added sugar content, which is 56g per 100g. This amount contributes substantially to its calorie count (366.67 calories per 100g) without providing essential nutrients, leading to a penalty for empty calories. The ingredient list begins with SUGAR, INVERT SUGAR, and CORN SYRUP, all forms of added sugar, indicating their predominant presence. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring an additional penalty. Unlike some candies that might offer trace amounts of vitamins or minerals, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY provides 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, B12, and folate. Compared to a generic unbranded version of this food, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY aligns closely in its nutritional deficiencies and high sugar load, offering no discernible nutritional advantages.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in sour patch kids soft candy kids fat free12x72 1n actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Quick Energy

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY is primarily composed of simple sugars like sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup. These carbohydrates are rapidly digested and absorbed, providing a quick source of glucose to the bloodstream. This can be useful for individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as during prolonged physical activity or to quickly raise blood sugar levels in cases of hypoglycemia. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained.

Fat-Free Option

This product is explicitly labeled as 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 KIDS SOFT CANDY aligns with a fat-free dietary approach. While this characteristic might fit specific dietary restrictions, it does not compensate for the lack of other beneficial nutrients or the high sugar content.

Suitable for Specific Dietary Needs

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY contains no protein, fiber, or common micronutrients, making it suitable for individuals on highly restricted diets that require minimal protein or fiber intake. For example, in some medical conditions where digestive load needs to be minimized, or as a very occasional treat for those with specific allergies to common protein sources, this product might fit. However, it should not be considered a regular part of a balanced diet.

How to eat it

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY is typically consumed as a snack or treat, often in social settings or as an indulgence. It's common for individuals to eat several pieces at once, which can quickly lead to a high intake of added sugars. Given its nutritional profile, moderation is key.

To manage sugar intake, portion out a small serving (e.g., 12 pieces) rather than eating directly from the bag.
Consider pairing a small portion with a source of protein or fiber, like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to slow sugar absorption.
Use SOUR PATCH KIDS as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack to minimize its impact on overall diet quality.
Store in a less accessible location to reduce impulsive snacking throughout the day.
Things to keep in mind

SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY contains several artificial colors, including YELLOW 6, RED 40, YELLOW 5, and BLUE 1. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals, particularly children, may experience sensitivities to artificial food dyes, which have been an area of ongoing discussion regarding their potential impact on behavior. The product's high sugar content is a significant concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes. There are no declared allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg in the ingredient list, but consumers with severe allergies should always verify cross-contamination risks with the manufacturer. The primary caution remains the lack of nutritional value combined with a high load of added sugars.

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Reader questions
Is SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY healthy?
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY is not considered healthy. It has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers no significant nutritional benefits. Its primary components are various forms of sugar, providing empty calories without essential vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. It is best consumed very infrequently and in small amounts.
How does SOUR PATCH KIDS compare to other candies?
Compared to many other candies, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY is similar in its high added sugar content and lack of beneficial nutrients. For example, a comparable product like Skittles Original also contains a high amount of added sugars and no significant micronutrients. Both are ultra-processed treats that should be consumed in moderation.
What is 'modified corn starch' in SOUR PATCH KIDS?
Modified corn starch is a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including SOUR PATCH KIDS. It helps give the candy its chewy texture and structure. While generally recognized as safe, it contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the product and does not offer nutritional value.
How many SOUR PATCH KIDS can I eat in a day?
Given its high added sugar content (56g per 100g), it's advisable to limit consumption of SOUR PATCH KIDS. The serving size is 12 pieces (30g), which still contains a significant amount of sugar. For most adults, infrequent consumption of a small portion is recommended to stay within daily added sugar guidelines.
Are SOUR PATCH KIDS suitable for a vegan diet?
Based on the ingredient list provided, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY does not appear to contain animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin, which is common in many soft candies. The ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and modified corn starch are typically plant-based. However, consumers following a strict vegan diet may wish to confirm with the manufacturer regarding processing aids or sugar refining methods.

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Data & references