STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES, BLUEBERRY
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES, BLUEBERRY receives a FoodScore of 47/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some potassium.
FoodScore: 47/100 (Decent) for STRETCH ISLAND Blueberry Flavored Fruit Bites.
This product contains 700mg (15% DV) of potassium per 100g, a notable micronutrient.
The NOVA 3 classification indicates this is a processed food, impacting its overall score.
Compared to generic fruit snacks, this SKU is similar in its processed nature.
Consider these fruit bites as an occasional snack rather than a primary fruit source.
Scores +32 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
50mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Potassium)+2
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES, BLUEBERRY achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food, incurring a 5-point penalty. While the product is made from fruit concentrates like apple puree concentrate and blueberry juice concentrate, these forms of fruit are considered processed, removing much of the fiber and other beneficial components found in whole fruits. On the positive side, it receives a 2-point bonus for its micronutrient content, specifically providing 700mg of potassium per 100g, which is 15% of the Daily Value. The product contains no added sugar, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, or protein, which prevents additional penalties in these areas. Its sodium content is also low at 50mg per 100g. Compared to a generic unbranded fruit snack, this STRETCH ISLAND product is nutritionally similar in its processed nature and lack of fiber, though its potassium content is a slight advantage.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in stretch island blueberry flavored fruit bites, blueberry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Potassium
This product provides 700mg of potassium per 100g, contributing 15% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Including foods with potassium can support overall cardiovascular health and help to counteract the effects of sodium in the diet. While not a primary source of whole fruit, these fruit bites can contribute to your daily potassium intake.
Convenient Snack Option
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES offer a portable and shelf-stable snack option. For individuals seeking a quick, pre-portioned item, these fruit bites can be a convenient choice. Their small size and individual pouches make them easy to carry for on-the-go consumption, fitting into various routines where fresh fruit might not be practical. This convenience can be beneficial for managing hunger between meals.
No Added Sugars
A notable aspect of this product is the absence of added sugars, which aligns with dietary recommendations to limit intake of these ingredients. The sweetness comes from fruit puree and juice concentrates, such as apple puree concentrate and apple juice concentrate. While these still contribute to the overall sugar content, they are not classified as added sugars. This formulation choice can be a consideration for those monitoring their intake of added sweeteners.
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES, BLUEBERRY receives a FoodScore of 47/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some potassium.
How to eat it
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES are typically consumed as a quick, individual snack. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten between meals for a sweet treat. The serving size is one pouch, which is designed for convenient, on-the-go consumption.
Consider pairing these fruit bites with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of cheese, to create a more balanced snack and promote satiety.
Use these fruit bites as an occasional treat rather than a primary source of fruit, as they lack the fiber found in whole fruits.
If you are looking for a similar sweet flavor, consider opting for whole blueberries or other fresh fruit to maximize nutrient intake and fiber content.
Portion control is built into the individual pouches, making it easy to stick to the recommended serving size and manage calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES includes citrus pectin, which is a gelling agent commonly used in fruit products. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems might experience mild discomfort if consumed in very large quantities, though this is unlikely with the small serving size. The product also contains "natural blueberry flavor with other natural flavors." While these are derived from natural sources, the term "natural flavors" can encompass a variety of components and does not necessarily indicate a whole food. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, and the product does not contain ingredients typically associated with significant cross-contamination risks for common allergens. Overall, this product is generally considered safe for consumption by the general population.
Is STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES healthy?
STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES received a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. While it provides some potassium and contains no added sugars, it is a processed food (NOVA 3) and lacks fiber. It can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional snack, but it should not replace whole fruits.
How does STRETCH ISLAND compare to other fruit snacks?
Compared to many other fruit snacks on the market, STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES stands out for having no added sugars. Many popular fruit snacks, such as Welch's Fruit Snacks, often list corn syrup or sugar as primary ingredients. However, like most fruit snacks, it is still a processed product and lacks the fiber of whole fruit.
What is 'natural blueberry flavor with other natural flavors'?
This ingredient indicates that the blueberry flavor is derived from natural sources, but it may include other natural flavor components beyond just blueberry. These flavors are added to enhance the taste profile of the product. While natural, they are not whole food ingredients and contribute to the product's processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for these fruit bites?
The recommended serving size for STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES is one pouch. This portion provides 300 calories per 100g, so consuming one pouch as an occasional snack aligns with typical snack portioning. For a more filling option, pair it with a source of protein or fiber.
Can children eat STRETCH ISLAND fruit bites?
Yes, STRETCH ISLAND BLUEBERRY FLAVORED FRUIT BITES are suitable for children as an occasional snack. The individual pouches are convenient for lunchboxes. However, due to its processed nature and lack of fiber, it's important to ensure children also consume plenty of whole fruits as part of their daily diet.