FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetSWEDISH FISH· 2 bags (30g)

SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER1X1 OZ

SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER scores 0/100, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food. This product offers minimal nutritional value.

  • FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and ultra-processing.
  • Contains 53.67g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Provides 0g of protein, fiber, and fat, with no significant micronutrients.
  • Best consumed in very small portions and infrequently as an occasional treat.
  • 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
53.67g
107% of Daily Value
Sodium
50mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (53.7g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers negligible nutritional benefits. The primary factor driving this score is the substantial amount of added sugar, totaling 53.67g per 100g. This contributes significantly to the 'empty calories' penalty, as these sugars provide energy without essential nutrients. The ingredient list begins with SUGAR, INVERT SUGAR, and CORN SYRUP, all forms of added sugar, highlighting their prevalence in the product's composition. Furthermore, this product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty due to its industrial formulation and lack of whole food components. It contains 0g of protein, fiber, and total fat, and provides 0% of the Daily Value for all listed micronutrients, including potassium, calcium, iron, and various vitamins. Compared to a generic unbranded version of this food, SWEDISH FISH exhibits a similar nutritional profile, characterized by a high sugar load and absence of beneficial nutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in swedish fish soft candy red easter1x1 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Quick Energy Source

SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY, primarily composed of sugars like SUGAR, INVERT SUGAR, and CORN SYRUP, offers a rapid source of carbohydrates. These simple sugars are quickly digested and absorbed, providing a prompt increase in blood glucose. This can be useful in specific situations requiring immediate energy, such as during prolonged physical activity or to counteract a sudden drop in blood sugar levels. However, this energy boost is short-lived and not sustained.

Suitable for Specific Dietary Restrictions

This product is naturally free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it a suitable option for individuals with these specific dietary restrictions. Its formulation, which includes modified corn starch as a thickener, avoids ingredients like wheat or milk. For those managing allergies, SWEDISH FISH can serve as an occasional treat that aligns with their allergen-free needs, provided other ingredients are also tolerated.

An Occasional Indulgence

As a confectionary item, SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY can be consumed as an occasional treat within a balanced diet. Its primary role is to provide enjoyment rather than nutrition. For individuals who enjoy sweet flavors, a small portion can satisfy a craving without significantly impacting overall dietary goals, as long as it is consumed infrequently and in moderation. It is not intended as a regular dietary component.

How to eat it

SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY is typically consumed as a sweet snack or dessert, often in single-serving bags or larger quantities. It's a common treat for movie nights, parties, or as a small indulgence. Due to its high sugar content, portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.

Pair with nutrient-dense foods: Enjoy a small portion alongside a fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and protein, which can help mitigate the sugar spike.
Mindful snacking: Divide larger packages into smaller, pre-portioned servings to prevent overconsumption and maintain awareness of intake.
Occasional treat: Reserve SWEDISH FISH for special occasions or infrequent indulgences rather than incorporating it into daily snacking routines.
Hydrate adequately: Drink water before and after consuming to help with satiety and to rinse the mouth of sugars.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sugar content in SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY, which can contribute to excessive caloric intake if not consumed in moderation. The product contains artificial colors, specifically RED 40, which some individuals may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. While generally recognized as safe, some people report adverse reactions to artificial food dyes. The presence of white mineral oil and carnauba wax are primarily for texture and shine, and are not known to pose significant health risks in the amounts present. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should exercise particular caution due to the rapid impact of simple sugars on glucose levels. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this product.

Swap suggestions
Good
Brownie
Score74
Good
Donut Glazed
Score71
Good
STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score71
Good
STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score69
Good
SIMPLE MILLS PANCAKE & WAFFLE ALMOND FLOUR BAKING MIX, PANCAKE & WAFFLE
Score68
Good
STRETCH ISLAND STRAWBERRY FRUIT STRIPS, STRAWBERRY
Score67
Reader questions
Is SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY healthy?
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY is not considered healthy from a nutritional standpoint. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content (53.67g per 100g) and lack of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is classified as an ultra-processed food.
How does SWEDISH FISH compare to other candies?
Compared to other candies like HARIBO Goldbears, SWEDISH FISH has a similar nutritional profile, being primarily composed of sugar and offering minimal nutritional value. Both are ultra-processed confections high in added sugars and low in beneficial nutrients. The main difference often lies in specific flavorings and textures.
What is 'modified corn starch' in SWEDISH FISH?
Modified corn starch is a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in SWEDISH FISH. It helps give the candy its characteristic chewy texture. It is derived from corn and is generally considered safe for consumption, though it adds no significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for SWEDISH FISH?
The manufacturer's serving size is 2 bags (30g). Given its high sugar content, a reasonable portion would be one small bag (15g) or even less, consumed infrequently. This helps to limit the intake of added sugars and calories, aligning with dietary guidelines for occasional treats.
Does SWEDISH FISH contain any allergens?
Based on the ingredient list provided, SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY does not contain common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, or wheat. It is important to always check the most current packaging for any changes in ingredients or allergen statements.

Explore more

CategoryAll sweets & desserts BrandAll SWEDISH FISH SKUs Competitor · 71/100STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Competitor · 69/100STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Head-to-headSWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER1X1 OZ vs. Brownie Head-to-headSWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER1X1 OZ vs. Donut Glazed Head-to-headSWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER1X1 OZ vs. STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Head-to-headSWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY RED EASTER1X1 OZ vs. STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY

Data & references