Sunsweet Philippine Pineapple Dried Marigold Juicy & Tangy scores 25/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This SUNSWEET snack receives a FoodScore of 25/100, indicating it is best avoided regularly.
The product contains 45.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant factor in its low score.
It provides 5g of fiber per 100g, offering a minor nutritional bonus.
As a NOVA class 3 processed snack, it contains more processing than a whole-food alternative.
Consider this product for occasional consumption due to its concentrated sugar.
Scores -16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
5g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
45.5g
91% of Daily Value
Sodium
375mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5g)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (45.5g)-25
Sodium (375mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 25
Sunsweet Philippine Pineapple Dried Marigold Juicy & Tangy receives a FoodScore of 25 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high added sugar content, which is 45.5g per 100g serving. This amount significantly contributes to the product's caloric density without providing substantial micronutrient benefits, resulting in a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list explicitly shows sugar as a primary addition, alongside malic acid and citric acid. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a -5 point penalty. While it does offer 5g of fiber per 100g, earning a +6 point bonus, this is not enough to offset the penalties. The sodium content of 375mg per 100g also contributes a minor -1 point penalty. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative like fresh pineapple, this SUNSWEET product has considerably more added sugar and is more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sunsweet philippine pineapple dried marigold juicy & tangy, philippine pineapple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Dietary Fiber
This product contains 5g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While not a primary source, this amount can supplement fiber from other foods in your diet, aiding in overall gut function. It's a modest contribution compared to whole fruits, but still a beneficial component.
Source of Vitamin C
Sunsweet Philippine Pineapple Dried Marigold Juicy & Tangy provides 7% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage. It also supports immune function and is necessary for collagen production, which is important for skin, cartilage, and bones. This contribution can help meet daily vitamin C needs.
Convenient Snack Option
As a dried fruit product, this SUNSWEET pineapple offers a shelf-stable and portable snack option. It can be easily stored and carried, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go consumption when fresh fruit is not readily available. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its convenience can be a factor for specific situations or travel needs.
Sunsweet Philippine Pineapple Dried Marigold Juicy & Tangy scores 25/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Dried pineapple is typically consumed as a standalone snack or added to other foods for a burst of sweetness and chewiness. A common portion size is 1/4 cup, which is smaller than the 100g reference. Due to its concentrated sugar, moderation is key.
Pair with unsalted nuts or seeds to add protein and healthy fats, which can help balance the sugar content and increase satiety.
Chop and sprinkle a small amount over plain Greek yogurt or oatmeal to add flavor without relying solely on its sweetness, thus diluting the added sugar per serving.
Use as an occasional treat in homemade trail mix, combining it with whole grains and other unsweetened dried fruits to control overall sugar intake.
Be mindful of portion sizes; the concentrated sugars mean even a small amount can contribute significantly to daily intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be particularly cautious with this product due to its high added sugar content (45.5g per 100g). The presence of sulfur dioxide is noted as a preservative to maintain color; while generally recognized as safe, some individuals with asthma or sulfite sensitivity may experience adverse reactions. The product also contains natural and artificial pineapple flavor, which may be a consideration for those preferring only natural ingredients. There are no major allergen declarations on the label, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities.
Is SUNSWEET Philippine Pineapple Dried Marigold Juicy & Tangy healthy?
This product scores 25/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it offers some fiber and Vitamin C, its high added sugar content (45.5g per 100g) is a significant nutritional drawback. It is best consumed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does SUNSWEET dried pineapple compare to fresh pineapple?
Compared to fresh pineapple, SUNSWEET dried pineapple is significantly more concentrated in calories and sugars, primarily due to the added sugar and the removal of water. Fresh pineapple offers more natural hydration and generally has a lower caloric density and no added sugars. The drying process also concentrates nutrients, but the added sugar in this product changes its overall nutritional profile.
What is malic acid and citric acid in this product?
Malic acid and citric acid are food additives used to enhance flavor and provide a tart or sour taste. They are naturally found in many fruits, including pineapple. In this product, they contribute to the 'tangy' aspect mentioned in the name and act as preservatives, helping to maintain the product's quality and shelf life.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dried pineapple?
The recommended serving size is 1/4 cup. Given its high sugar concentration, it's advisable to stick to this portion size or even less, especially if you are mindful of your daily sugar intake. Pairing it with other nutrient-dense foods can help make a small portion more satisfying.
Are there other dried fruit brands that are lower in added sugar?
Yes, many brands offer dried fruits with no added sugar. For example, brands like Made In Nature or Trader Joe's often have dried fruit options where the only ingredient is the fruit itself. When choosing dried fruit, always check the ingredient list to ensure there is no added sugar if that is a dietary goal.