STARBURST CHERRY, ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LEMON ORIGINAL POPS 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) due to minimal nutritional value.
Contains 64.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Offers no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients like calcium or iron.
Best consumed infrequently and in very small portions, if at all.
Scores -33 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
64.7g
129% of Daily Value
Sodium
58.82mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (64.7g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
STARBURST CHERRY, ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LEMON ORIGINAL POPS scores 0 out of 100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional benefits according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines. The primary factor for this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, which stands at 64.7g per 100g. This contributes to a high calorie count of 411.76 calories per 100g without providing essential nutrients. The product contains 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and 0g of total fat, including saturated and trans fats. Furthermore, it provides no measurable amounts of potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, or vitamins A, C, D, B12, or folate, resulting in 0% DV for all listed micronutrients. The presence of ingredients like corn syrup and partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil contributes to its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein, calcium, and other micronutrients, this product lacks any comparable nutritional density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in starburst cherry, orange, strawberry & lemon original pops, cherry, orange, strawberry & lemon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a quick source of energy
This product primarily consists of simple carbohydrates from sugar and corn syrup, which are rapidly digested and absorbed. This can provide a quick burst of energy, which might be useful in situations requiring immediate caloric intake, such as during prolonged physical activity or to quickly address low blood sugar levels. However, this energy is not sustained and lacks the nutritional support found in whole foods.
Convenient for occasional treats
STARBURST pops are designed for portability and convenience, making them easy to consume as an occasional treat. Their individual packaging allows for controlled portioning, though the nutritional profile suggests moderation is key. This product can fit into a diet as a rare indulgence, rather than a regular food item, for those seeking a sweet flavor.
Gluten-free formulation
For individuals managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this STARBURST product is formulated without gluten-containing ingredients. This makes it a suitable option for those who need to avoid gluten in their diet, offering a specific dietary accommodation. However, it is important to note that being gluten-free does not inherently make a food nutritionally beneficial.
STARBURST CHERRY, ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LEMON ORIGINAL POPS receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
STARBURST CHERRY, ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LEMON ORIGINAL POPS are typically consumed as a sweet treat or candy. They are often eaten individually as a quick indulgence. Due to their high sugar content, they are not intended as a primary food source or a regular part of a balanced diet.
Consider these pops as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to manage added sugar intake.
Pair with a source of fiber and protein, like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption if consumed.
Be mindful of portion sizes; one piece contains a significant amount of sugar, so limiting intake to a single pop is advisable.
For a more nutritionally beneficial sweet option, consider fruit or a small portion of dark chocolate instead of ultra-processed candies.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in STARBURST CHERRY, ORANGE, STRAWBERRY & LEMON ORIGINAL POPS, which contributes to empty calories and offers no essential nutrients. The ingredient list includes partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil, a source of trans fats, although the nutritional panel states 0g trans fat per 100g. This ingredient is often associated with increased LDL cholesterol levels. The product also contains artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 6, Yellow 5), which some individuals, particularly children, may choose to limit due to potential sensitivities. Individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels should exercise caution due to the rapid impact of simple sugars. The product contains gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS are not considered healthy. They receive a FoodScore of 0/100 because they are high in added sugar (64.7g per 100g) and provide no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients. They are classified as an ultra-processed food, offering minimal nutritional value.
How does STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS compare to a generic dairy equivalent?
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS offer substantially different nutritional profiles. A dairy product would typically provide protein, calcium, and other vitamins, contributing to bone health and satiety. STARBURST pops, conversely, offer only calories from sugar and lack these essential nutrients.
What is 'partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil' and why is it in this product?
Partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil is a fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid at room temperature, improving texture and shelf life. While the label states 0g trans fat per 100g, this ingredient can still contain small amounts of trans fats and is often used in ultra-processed foods for its functional properties.
What is a reasonable portion size for STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS?
Given the high added sugar content, a reasonable portion size for STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS would be one piece, consumed infrequently. The serving size is listed as one piece, which helps in managing the intake of added sugars and calories from this product.
Are there any allergens in STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS?
The ingredient list for STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS does not explicitly declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. However, it's always advisable to check the packaging for allergen statements or 'may contain' warnings, as manufacturing practices can vary.
How do these compare to other candies like Skittles?
STARBURST ORIGINAL POPS are comparable to other candies like Skittles in their high added sugar content and lack of essential nutrients. Both are ultra-processed confections primarily designed for taste, offering minimal nutritional benefits and best consumed in moderation as occasional treats.