TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY scores 31/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar. This product offers some fiber and Vitamin A, but these benefits are outweighed by the sugar load.
This product received a FoodScore of 31/100 (Poor).
It contains 37.44g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY is classified as NOVA 3 (processed).
It provides 7g of fiber per 100g, which is a positive attribute.
This snack is best consumed in small portions to manage added sugar intake.
Scores -10 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
2.33g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
37.44g
75% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7g)+9
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (37.4g)-25
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 31
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY receives a FoodScore of 31 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor contributing to this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, totaling 37.44g per 100g. This is evident in the ingredient list, where sucrose and sugar are listed prominently for the dried cherries, blueberries, and strawberries. While the product does offer some nutritional benefits, such as 7g of fiber per 100g and a notable 193% DV of Vitamin A, these positive contributions are largely offset by the high sugar content. The product's classification as NOVA 3 (processed) also incurs a penalty, reflecting that it has undergone significant industrial processing. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative like fresh berries, TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY contains considerably more added sugar and fewer natural nutrients, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's dried berry medley actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY provides 7g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet supports regular bowel movements and can help manage blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose. While this product contains added sugar, the fiber content is a positive nutritional aspect.
Contains Vitamin A
This product is a good source of Vitamin A, offering 193% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of Vitamin A in this dried berry medley means it can contribute to meeting your daily requirements for this important micronutrient. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when relying on this product for Vitamin A.
Convenient Snack Option
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY offers a convenient and portable snack option for individuals on the go. Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to store and transport, providing a quick source of energy. While it's important to be mindful of the added sugar, for situations where fresh fruit is not accessible, this product can serve as an alternative. It can be a practical choice for travel or as part of a packed lunch.
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY scores 31/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar. This product offers some fiber and Vitamin A, but these benefits are outweighed by the sugar load.
How to eat it
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY is typically consumed as a standalone snack or added to other foods. Common usage includes topping yogurt, oatmeal, or salads, or mixing into trail mixes. The recommended serving size is 0.333 cup.
To mitigate the impact of added sugar, combine with unsweetened foods like plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened oatmeal.
Use as a flavorful addition to homemade trail mix with unsalted nuts and seeds to boost protein and healthy fats.
Practice portion control by measuring out the serving size to avoid excessive intake of added sugars.
Consider using it as a sweetener in baked goods in place of some refined sugar, though still accounting for its sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the significant amount of added sugar in TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY. The ingredient list clearly shows sucrose and sugar added to the dried fruits. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption, should consume this product in moderation. The presence of sunflower oil is generally not a concern in these quantities. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with severe allergies should always review packaging for 'may contain' statements. This product is generally safe for most populations when consumed as part of a balanced diet, with attention to portion sizes.
TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY scores 31/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and Vitamin A, its high added sugar content is a significant nutritional drawback. It is best considered an occasional treat rather than a staple 'healthy' snack.
How does TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY compare to other dried fruit snacks?
Compared to many other dried fruit snacks, TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY's nutritional profile is similar in its high added sugar content. For example, products like Sun-Maid Raisins (which often contain no added sugar) would offer a lower sugar alternative. Always check the ingredient list for added sugars when comparing.
What is 'sucrose' in the ingredient list?
Sucrose is a common type of sugar, often referred to as table sugar. In TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY, sucrose is added to the cherries and blueberries during the drying process. This contributes to the product's overall high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The recommended serving size is 0.333 cup. Due to the high added sugar content, sticking to this portion size is advisable to manage your sugar intake. For a more balanced snack, consider pairing it with a source of protein or healthy fats.
Can I use this in baking or cooking?
Yes, TRADER JOE'S DRIED BERRY MEDLEY can be used in baking or cooking, similar to other dried fruits. However, remember that it already contains significant added sugar, so you may need to adjust other sweeteners in your recipe accordingly. It can add flavor and texture to muffins, cookies, or oatmeal.