The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
This product received a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A notable concern is the 22.12g of added sugar per 100g serving.
It contains 4.8g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a small positive to its score.
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it contains several processed ingredients not typically found in a generic fruit snack.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily dietary staple.
Scores -18 points above the fruit category average (41/100 across 295 foods).
Fiber
4.8g
17% of Daily Value
Protein
4g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
22.12g
44% of Daily Value
Sodium
32mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.8g)+5
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (22.1g)-25
Saturated fat (4g)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 23
The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket receives a FoodScore of 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its significant amount of added sugar, totaling 22.12g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of 25 points. Additionally, the product contains 4g of saturated fat, contributing a minor penalty of 2 points. Its classification as a NOVA class 3 food, indicating it is processed, results in a further 5-point deduction. While the product does offer 4.8g of fiber per 100g, earning a bonus of 5 points, this is insufficient to offset the penalties from added sugar and processing. The ingredient list highlights cane sugar and glucose syrup as primary sweeteners. Compared to a generic unbranded fruit, which would typically contain natural sugars and no added sugar, this product's formulation significantly lowers its nutritional standing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in the natural confectionery . fruit basket 220g actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Fiber
This product contains 4.8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While not a primary source, it offers more fiber than many other confectionery items. Including fiber in the diet is beneficial for overall well-being.
Quick Energy Source
Due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from glucose syrup and cane sugar, this product can provide a rapid source of energy. This can be useful in situations requiring an immediate energy boost, such as during prolonged physical activity. However, it is important to balance this with other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Treat Option
The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket offers a convenient and accessible option for an occasional sweet treat. Its individual pieces are easy to portion and consume on the go. When consumed in moderation, it can fit into a balanced dietary pattern as an infrequent indulgence, satisfying a craving for something sweet without requiring preparation.
The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket scores 23/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content, which significantly impacts its nutritional profile.
How to eat it
Fruit-flavored confectionery like The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket is typically consumed as a snack or dessert. It's often eaten directly from the package, and a common pitfall is over-consumption due to its palatability and small piece size.
To manage added sugar intake, consider pairing a small portion of these candies with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a small piece of cheese.
Use these candies as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to help limit overall sugar consumption.
If you are looking for a fruit-based snack, opt for whole, fresh fruit, which provides fiber and micronutrients without the added sugars.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in this product, which is a primary nutritional concern. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes Acid Modified Wheat Starch, which means individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the presence of wheat derivatives. While the natural food colors are generally considered safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to various food additives. This product is not suitable for young children as a primary snack due to its sugar content and potential for choking on small pieces.
Is The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket healthy?
The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It scores 23/100 on FoodScore, largely due to its high added sugar content (22.12g per 100g) and its classification as a processed food. It lacks significant amounts of essential vitamins and minerals.
How does The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket compare to other fruit snacks?
Compared to many other fruit-flavored candies, The Natural Confectionery Co. Fruit Basket's nutritional profile is similar, often containing high levels of added sugar. For instance, while it may contain slightly more fiber than some brands like Haribo Goldbears, it still falls short of providing the nutritional benefits of actual fruit or less processed fruit snacks like those from Annie's Homegrown, which often use fruit puree as a primary ingredient.
What does 'Natural Flavours' mean in the ingredient list?
Natural Flavours refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, or other plant or animal materials. While they originate from natural sources, they are still processed and added to enhance taste. They do not contribute significant nutritional value to the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
Since this product does not have a declared serving size, it's advisable to consider a small portion, such as 20-30g, as an occasional treat. Consuming the entire 100g would mean ingesting over 22g of added sugar, which is a significant portion of the daily recommended limit for added sugars.
Can I eat this product if I have a gluten sensitivity?
No, this product is not suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The ingredient list explicitly states Glucose Syrup (From Wheat and corn) and Acid Modified Wheat Starch, indicating the presence of wheat-derived ingredients. Always check the ingredient list carefully if you have dietary restrictions.