TOOTSIE, SOUR DOTS CANDY, GRAPE, ORANGE, LEMON, GREEN APPLE & CHERRY, GRAPE, ORANGE, LEMON, GREEN APPLE & CHERRY
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid).
Contains 36.67g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
Best consumed infrequently and in very small portions 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
36.67g
73% of Daily Value
Sodium
35.95mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (36.7g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY earns a FoodScore of 0/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its significant added sugar content, which stands at 36.67g per 100g. This amount contributes substantially to the product's 333.33 calories per 100g without providing essential nutrients, leading to a penalty for empty calories. The ingredient list begins with corn syrup and sugar, indicating that these are the primary components by weight. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional penalty. TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY contains no protein, fiber, or beneficial fats, and provides 0% DV for all listed micronutrients including potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins. Compared to a generic unbranded version of this food, the nutritional profile is similar, characterized by a lack of beneficial nutrients and a high concentration of added sugars and artificial ingredients like artificial colors.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in tootsie, sour dots candy, grape, orange, lemon, green apple & cherry, grape, orange, lemon, green apple & cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a quick source of energy
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY, primarily composed of sugars like corn syrup and sugar, offers a rapid source of carbohydrates. This can provide a quick energy boost, which may be useful in situations requiring immediate caloric intake, such as during prolonged physical activity. However, this energy is not sustained and lacks the nutritional benefits of complex carbohydrates.
Suitable for specific dietary needs
This product is naturally free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it a suitable option for individuals with specific food sensitivities to these ingredients. It contains no protein or fat, which can be a consideration for those monitoring these macronutrients for particular dietary protocols. The simplicity of its formulation around sugars and starches allows for this allergen-free profile.
Can be used for portion-controlled indulgence
While not a nutrient-dense food, TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY can serve as an occasional treat. The small individual 'dots' allow for mindful portion control, helping to manage overall intake of added sugars when consumed as part of a balanced diet. This approach can help satisfy cravings without overconsumption, especially when enjoyed infrequently.
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY is typically consumed as a snack or dessert, often in casual settings or as a treat. The serving size is 11 dots, which provides a small amount of calories and a concentrated dose of added sugar. Due to its minimal nutritional value, it is generally not integrated into regular meals.
Pair with nutrient-dense foods: Enjoy a small portion alongside a meal rich in fiber and protein, such as fruit and nuts, to help balance the overall nutritional intake.
Practice mindful eating: Savor each dot slowly to enhance enjoyment and promote satiety with a smaller portion, rather than consuming a large quantity quickly.
Use as an occasional treat: Reserve TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY for infrequent occasions to minimize its impact on your daily added sugar limit.
Consider smaller packages: Opt for smaller, pre-portioned packages if available to help control serving sizes and prevent overconsumption.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY. With 36.67g of added sugar per 100g, frequent consumption can contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits, potentially impacting dental health and overall metabolic health. The product also contains artificial colors (including FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1), which some individuals, particularly children, may choose to limit due to potential sensitivities. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with known sensitivities to food dyes should review the ingredient list carefully. The presence of palm oil is also noted, though in this product, it contributes no significant fat content.
TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY is not considered a healthy food. It has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional benefits. It is high in added sugars and lacks 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 TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY compare to other candies?
Compared to many other candies in the sweet category, TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY has a similar nutritional profile: high in added sugars and low in essential nutrients. For example, it is comparable to Skittles Original Candy in its high sugar content and lack of beneficial macros. Most candies in this category are ultra-processed and provide primarily empty calories.
What is 'food starch-modified' in the ingredient list?
Food starch-modified is a common food additive used to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of processed foods. In TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY, it likely contributes to the chewy texture and helps prevent the candies from sticking together. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
How much TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY can I eat in a day?
Given its high added sugar content, it is advisable to consume TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY in very small, infrequent portions. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. A single serving (11 dots) contributes a significant amount of added sugar, so moderation is key to staying within these guidelines.
Are there any allergens in TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY?
Based on the provided ingredient list, TOOTSIE SOUR DOTS CANDY does not contain common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, or wheat. This makes it a suitable option for individuals avoiding these specific allergens. However, always check the most current packaging for updated allergen information or cross-contamination warnings.