FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageTHE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY· 2 PIECES

THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT DARK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CARAMELS

THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT DARK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CARAMELS receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). This score is primarily driven by its very high content of added sugar and saturated fat.

  • This product earns a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
  • It contains 74.2g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • Categorized as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
  • Compared to plain sparkling water, this product offers no beneficial micronutrients.
  • Portion control is essential due to its high calorie and sugar density.
  • Scores -32 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
74.2g
148% of Daily Value
Sodium
129.03mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (74.2g)-25
Saturated fat (9.7g)-13
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 0

THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY's DARK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CARAMELS receives a FoodScore of 0, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score reflects its nutritional profile, which is dominated by components that detract from a healthy diet. A major factor is the 74.2g of added sugar per 100g, contributing a significant -25 penalty. Ingredients such as sugar and corn syrup are listed first, indicating their high concentration in the product. Additionally, the product contains 9.7g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -13 penalty. The formulation, including heavy cream and butter, contributes to this saturated fat content. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring a -10 penalty due to its industrial formulation and multiple processing steps. The absence of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients results in penalties for empty calories and concentrated ultra-processed fat. In contrast, a reference baseline like plain sparkling water contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or ultra-processed ingredients, highlighting the significant nutritional difference.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in the famous pacific dessert dark chocolate, sea salt caramels actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Quick Energy

This product, with its high sugar content from ingredients like sugar and corn syrup, can provide a rapid source of energy. For individuals needing an immediate caloric boost, such as after intense physical activity, the simple carbohydrates are quickly absorbed. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained, often leading to a subsequent energy crash.

Offers a Moment of Indulgence

For some, foods like THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY's caramels serve as a comfort food or a treat to be enjoyed in moderation. The combination of dark chocolate and sea salt caramel flavors can provide sensory satisfaction. When consumed mindfully and infrequently, it can be part of a balanced approach to eating that includes occasional indulgences.

Convenient Treat Option

These caramels are a ready-to-eat dessert that requires no preparation, making them a convenient option for a quick treat. Their individual packaging allows for easy portioning, although adherence to the suggested serving size is crucial. This convenience can be useful for those seeking a pre-portioned sweet item without the need for baking or extensive food preparation.

How to eat it

THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT DARK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CARAMELS are typically consumed as a dessert or a sweet snack. The serving size is 2 pieces, which is important to note given the high caloric density and added sugar content. Common pitfalls include consuming multiple servings in one sitting.

Adhere strictly to the 2-piece serving size to manage calorie and sugar intake effectively.
Pair with a source of fiber and protein, such as a small handful of unsalted nuts, to help slow sugar absorption.
Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet due to its ultra-processed nature and lack of essential nutrients.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and prevent melting, which can make portion control more challenging.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains common allergens, specifically milk and soy lecithin, as declared in the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies to dairy or soy should avoid consumption. Due to the very high added sugar content (74.2g per 100g), individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should exercise extreme caution and consult with a healthcare professional before consuming. The product is also ultra-processed (NOVA 4), meaning it contains ingredients and processing methods that may not align with dietary patterns emphasizing whole or minimally processed foods. There are no artificial colors or preservatives listed, but the presence of multiple forms of sugar and fats should be considered in overall dietary planning.

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Reader questions
Is THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY DARK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CARAMELS healthy?
No, this product is not considered healthy. It receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (74.2g per 100g) and significant amount of saturated fat (9.7g per 100g), with minimal to no essential micronutrients.
How does THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY compare to other dessert caramels?
Compared to many other branded dessert caramels, THE FAMOUS PACIFIC DESSERT COMPANY's offering is similar in its high sugar and fat profile. For example, a comparable product like Werther's Original Chewy Caramels also features sugar and corn syrup as primary ingredients, contributing to a similar nutritional density. Both are best consumed in strict moderation as occasional treats.
What is 'soy lecithin' and should I be concerned about it?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used here in the dark chocolate to help blend ingredients and maintain texture. For most people, it is generally recognized as safe. However, individuals with a soy allergy should be aware of its presence, as it is a common allergen.
What is a reasonable portion size for these caramels?
The manufacturer's suggested serving size is 2 pieces. Adhering to this portion is crucial for managing the intake of calories, added sugar, and saturated fat. Consuming more than the recommended serving size will significantly increase the nutritional impact.
Can I eat these caramels if I am trying to lose weight?
While technically possible to include any food in a weight loss diet, these caramels are calorie-dense and offer little satiety or nutritional benefit. Their high sugar content can also lead to cravings. It would be more effective to choose foods that provide greater satiety and nutrient density to support weight management goals.

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Data & references