SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS, PUMPKIN SPICE
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS score 38/100 (Poor) due to being **ultra-processed** and containing **saturated fat**, with no significant beneficial nutrients.
This product scores 38/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, indicating a low nutritional value.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed snack.
A serving contains 4g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to its low score.
Compared to a whole-food snack, this product offers minimal fiber or micronutrients.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -3 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
4g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
340mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4g)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 38
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS received a FoodScore of 38/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this low score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, it does contribute 4g of saturated fat per 100g, which also negatively impacts its score. The ingredient list includes enriched flour, invert sugar, and various vegetable oils like soybean and palm oil, which are common in ultra-processed snacks. The product provides no fiber and negligible amounts of essential micronutrients such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins D, B12, folate, C, and A. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS offers little in terms of beneficial nutrients and is primarily composed of refined ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in special k pumpkin spice flavored pastry crisps, pumpkin spice actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Snack Option
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS offer a convenient, ready-to-eat snack that requires no preparation. This can be useful for individuals with limited time or access to fresh food options, providing a quick source of calories. Its portability makes it suitable for on-the-go consumption, fitting into busy schedules when other snack choices might not be available.
Source of Iron
This product provides 1.44mg of iron per 100g, contributing 8% of the Daily Value. While not a primary source, this iron content can help meet daily requirements, particularly for individuals who may need to increase their intake. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism, and fortified foods like this can play a minor role in overall iron intake.
Energy Boost
With 400 calories per 100g, these pastry crisps can provide a quick source of energy. This can be beneficial for individuals needing a rapid caloric intake, such as after light physical activity or as a small pick-me-up during a long day. The combination of carbohydrates and fats contributes to its energy density.
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS score 38/100 (Poor) due to being ultra-processed and containing saturated fat, with no significant beneficial nutrients.
How to eat it
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS are typically consumed as a quick snack, often in the morning or afternoon. The standard serving size is 2 crisps. Due to their convenient packaging, they are frequently eaten on the go, directly from the wrapper.
Pair with a source of protein and fiber, such as a handful of almonds or a piece of fruit, to enhance satiety and balance the meal.
Consider these crisps as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to moderate intake of ultra-processed foods.
If you enjoy the flavor, try to find whole-grain alternatives with pumpkin spice that offer more fiber and fewer refined ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including wheat, milk, and soy, which are declared on the label. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The presence of various gums like cellulose gum and xanthan gum, along with maltodextrin, may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals, though this is not universal. The product's ultra-processed nature means it contains several food additives and refined ingredients. While generally recognized as safe, a diet high in ultra-processed foods may be associated with various health considerations. There are no specific interactions or populations for whom this product is uniquely problematic beyond general dietary advice for ultra-processed items.
Is SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS healthy?
SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS received a FoodScore of 38/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional value. It is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and contains saturated fat. While it provides some iron, it lacks significant amounts of fiber, vitamins, and other essential minerals.
How does SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to a whole-food snack like an apple or a handful of nuts, SPECIAL K PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED PASTRY CRISPS offer less fiber and fewer micronutrients. When compared to some other snack bars like a KIND Bar, this product may have a different nutrient profile, often with less protein and fiber and more refined ingredients, depending on the specific KIND Bar variety.
What is 'enriched flour' in the ingredient list?
Enriched flour is wheat flour that has had certain B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid) and iron added back after being removed during processing. While it restores some nutrients, it is still a refined grain and lacks the fiber and many other nutrients found in whole wheat flour.
What is a reasonable portion size for these pastry crisps?
The declared serving size is 2 crisps. Sticking to this portion can help manage calorie and saturated fat intake. Consuming larger portions regularly would further increase the intake of ultra-processed ingredients and saturated fat.
Can these be part of a weight management diet?
Due to their calorie density (400 calories per 100g) and low nutrient density, these pastry crisps are not ideal for regular consumption in a weight management diet. They can be included occasionally as a treat, but focusing on whole, unprocessed foods is generally more effective for satiety and nutrient intake.