SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This SOUR PATCH product received a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
It contains 50.75g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food with a complex ingredient list.
Compared to generic sweet candies, this SKU is similar in its high sugar and low nutrient profile.
Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
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
50.75g
101% of Daily Value
Sodium
38mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (50.8g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily driven by its significant added sugar content and ultra-processed nature. Per 100g, this product contains 50.75g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with SUGAR, INVERT SUGAR, and CORN SYRUP, all forms of added sugar, indicating its primary composition. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to an additional -10 point penalty. This classification reflects its formulation with industrial ingredients and minimal whole food components. Furthermore, the product provides 350 calories per 100g with 0g protein, 0g fiber, and 0g total fat, contributing to an 'empty calorie' penalty of -15 points. It offers negligible amounts of essential micronutrients, with 0% DV for most vitamins and minerals. Compared to a generic unbranded version of this food, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE exhibits a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and lack of beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sour patch kids soft candy kids fat free1x16 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Quick Energy
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE is primarily composed of various sugars like SUGAR, INVERT SUGAR, and CORN SYRUP. These simple carbohydrates are rapidly absorbed by the body, providing a quick 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.
Fat-Free Option
This SOUR PATCH product is formulated to be fat-free, containing 0g of total fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, this product aligns with a fat-restricted dietary approach. While being fat-free, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile, especially the high sugar content, when incorporating it into a balanced diet. The absence of fat does not equate to a nutrient-dense food.
Specific Use Case for Palatability
For individuals with very limited appetites or those undergoing medical treatments that affect taste perception, highly palatable foods like SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE might be one of the few options they can consume. Its sweet and sour flavor profile can stimulate appetite in specific circumstances. However, this should be a short-term consideration and not a long-term dietary staple due to its lack of essential nutrients.
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE is typically consumed as a snack or treat, often in a single sitting. It is common to see it eaten at events, movie theaters, or as an occasional indulgence. The standard serving size is 16 pieces (40g), but it is often consumed in larger quantities.
To manage sugar intake, consider portioning out a single serving of 16 pieces rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pairing this candy with a source of fiber or protein, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, can help slow sugar absorption.
Due to its high sugar content, consume SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE as an infrequent treat rather than a daily snack.
Consider sharing a bag with others to naturally reduce individual portion sizes and moderate overall intake.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE relates to its high added sugar content, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake without providing essential nutrients. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should be particularly mindful of this product's impact. The ingredient list includes several artificial colors, specifically YELLOW 6, RED 40, YELLOW 5, and BLUE 1. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience sensitivities or prefer to limit their intake of artificial food colorings. There are no common allergens explicitly declared, but consumers with severe allergies should always review the full label for any 'may contain' statements or cross-contamination warnings.
SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore primarily due to its high added sugar content (50.75g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It provides minimal essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, or minerals.
How does SOUR PATCH KIDS compare to other candies?
Compared to other sweet candies like Skittles or Swedish Fish, SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high sugar and low nutrient density. All these products are typically high in added sugars and offer little to no beneficial macronutrients or micronutrients.
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. In SOUR PATCH KIDS, it contributes to the candy's texture and consistency. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption, but it does not add significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for SOUR PATCH KIDS?
A reasonable portion size for SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE is the declared serving of 16 pieces (40g). This helps to limit the intake of added sugars to approximately 20g per serving. Consuming larger portions frequently can contribute to excessive sugar intake.
Can children eat SOUR PATCH KIDS?
Children can eat SOUR PATCH KIDS SOFT CANDY KIDS FAT FREE in moderation as an occasional treat. However, due to its high sugar content and lack of nutrients, it should not be a regular part of a child's diet. Excessive sugar intake in children can contribute to dental issues and an unbalanced diet.