SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY TROPICAL FAT FREE1X2 OZ receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This product has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
The primary nutritional concern is its high added sugar content, at 52.5g per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to generic soft candies, SWEDISH FISH contains similar levels of sugar and lacks beneficial nutrients.
Consume this product in very small portions and infrequently due to its nutritional profile.
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
52.5g
105% of Daily Value
Sodium
88.93mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (52.5g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY TROPICAL FAT FREE1X2 OZ earns a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily driven by its significant added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 52.5g of added sugar, which contributes substantially to its calorie count without providing essential nutrients. This high sugar load is a major factor in its low score. The ingredient list begins with sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup, all forms of added sugar. Furthermore, the product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a penalty in the FoodScore system due to the extensive industrial processing and inclusion of various additives like 'natural and artificial flavor' and 'titanium dioxide'. It provides 357.14 calories per 100g, with 0g of protein, 0g of fiber, and 0g of total fat, leading to a penalty for empty calories. Compared to a generic unbranded version of soft candy, SWEDISH FISH presents a very similar nutritional profile, offering negligible vitamins and minerals, with most micronutrients at 0% Daily Value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swedish fish soft candy tropical fat free1x2 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Quick Energy Source
This product, like other candies, offers a rapid source of carbohydrates from its high sugar content. While not a sustained energy source, the sugars (sugar, invert sugar, corn syrup) are quickly metabolized, providing an immediate caloric boost. This can be relevant in specific situations requiring quick glucose, such as during intense physical activity or to counteract a sudden drop in blood sugar. However, it is important to note that this energy comes without significant accompanying nutrients.
Fat-Free Option
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY is formulated to be completely fat-free, with 0g of total fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, this product does not contribute to those dietary components. While being fat-free does not inherently make a food healthy, it can fit into a dietary pattern where fat reduction is a specific goal, provided other nutritional aspects like sugar content are considered. This aligns with the 'FAT FREE' claim on the packaging.
Suitable for Specific Dietary Preferences
This product is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it a suitable option for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies to these ingredients. Its simple ingredient profile, primarily sugars and starches, means it can be consumed by a wider range of people who need to avoid certain food components. This can be a practical consideration when selecting a treat for diverse groups.
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY TROPICAL FAT FREE1X2 OZ receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY is typically consumed as an occasional treat or snack. It's often eaten straight from the bag, and a common pitfall is consuming the entire serving size or more in one sitting, leading to a high intake of added sugars.
To manage sugar intake, portion out a small amount into a separate dish rather than eating directly from the bag.
Consider pairing a small serving with a source of protein or fiber, like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help moderate the glycemic response.
Use SWEDISH FISH as an infrequent treat rather than a regular snack to minimize its impact on overall diet quality.
For a more balanced snack, consider alternatives like fresh fruit or a small portion of dried fruit, which provide natural sugars along with fiber and micronutrients.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY TROPICAL FAT FREE1X2 OZ relates to its high content of added sugars, including sugar, invert sugar, and corn syrup. Individuals with diabetes or those managing blood sugar levels should consume this product with extreme moderation, as it can cause a rapid increase in blood glucose. The product also contains artificial colors like Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1, which some individuals may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some people report adverse reactions to artificial food dyes. The presence of 'white mineral oil' and 'carnauba wax' are for texture and shine, and are generally not considered health concerns in the amounts present.
Is SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY TROPICAL FAT FREE1X2 OZ healthy?
SWEDISH FISH SOFT CANDY is not considered a healthy food. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content (52.5g per 100g) and lack of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet.
How does SWEDISH FISH compare to other candies like Haribo Goldbears?
Compared to other gummy candies like Haribo Goldbears, SWEDISH FISH has a similar nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and low in beneficial nutrients. Both are ultra-processed foods (NOVA class 4) and provide primarily empty calories. The specific types of sugars and artificial colors may vary, but the overall nutritional impact is comparable.
What is 'invert sugar' in the ingredient list?
Invert sugar is a mixture of glucose and fructose, formed by hydrolyzing sucrose. It is a type of added sugar that helps keep candies moist and prevents crystallization. Nutritionally, it functions similarly to other added sugars like corn syrup, contributing calories without significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for SWEDISH FISH?
The serving size is 1 bag (56g), which contains a significant amount of added sugar. For moderation, a more reasonable portion might be half a bag or even less, especially if consumed infrequently. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of daily calories.
Does being 'fat-free' make SWEDISH FISH a better choice?
While SWEDISH FISH is indeed fat-free, this claim can be misleading. The absence of fat does not negate the high sugar content, which is the primary nutritional concern. Many fat-free products compensate for flavor by adding more sugar. Prioritizing foods rich in nutrients over those simply labeled 'fat-free' is generally a more beneficial approach.