TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA earns a FoodScore of 67/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **high potassium content** and minimal processing.
FoodScore: 67/100 (Good) due to beneficial micronutrients and fiber.
Contains 1520mg of potassium per 100g, contributing 32% of the Daily Value.
Zero grams of added sugar and total fat per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 2, indicating minimally processed ingredients.
A convenient snack option, but portion control is key due to calorie density.
Scores +26 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
5g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
38mg
2% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (5g)+6
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Potassium)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 67
TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA achieves a FoodScore of 67 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely influenced by several positive nutritional attributes. The product receives a significant bonus for its fiber content, providing 5g per 100g, which is a notable contribution to daily intake. It also gains points for its protein content, offering 5g per 100g. A key highlight is the impressive potassium level, with 1520mg per 100g, accounting for 32% of the Daily Value, which is a substantial micronutrient bonus. Furthermore, its NOVA class 2 designation, meaning it consists of processed culinary ingredients, contributes an additional 8 points, reflecting its relatively minimal processing compared to many other snack foods. The product contains 0g of added sugar, total fat, and sodium per 100g, avoiding common penalties. When compared to a whole-food snack alternative like a fresh banana, this dried version is more calorie-dense but retains many of the original fruit's beneficial nutrients, making it a nutritionally sound choice within its category. The only ingredient beyond bananas is sulfur dioxide, added for freshness, which does not incur a penalty.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's, dried flattened banana actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Electrolyte Balance
TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA is an excellent source of potassium, providing 1520mg per 100g, which is 32% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Including potassium-rich foods in the diet can help support healthy blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular function. This product offers a convenient way to boost potassium intake, especially for individuals who may not consume enough fresh fruits and vegetables.
Contributes to Daily Fiber Intake
With 5g of fiber per 100g, this TRADER JOE'S product contributes meaningfully to daily fiber recommendations. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements and helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Fiber also contributes to feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for appetite regulation. While not as high in fiber as some whole grains or legumes, the fiber content in these dried bananas is a positive attribute for a snack food.
Provides Natural Energy Without Added Sugars
This dried banana snack offers a concentrated source of natural carbohydrates, providing energy without any added sugars. The carbohydrates present are naturally occurring from the bananas themselves. This makes it a suitable option for a quick energy boost before or after physical activity, or as a convenient snack to stave off hunger between meals. The absence of added sugars aligns with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake of these ingredients.
TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA earns a FoodScore of 67/100 (Good), primarily driven by its high potassium content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA is a convenient, shelf-stable snack often consumed directly from the package. It's a popular choice for on-the-go energy or as a quick addition to breakfast. A common portion is 2 pieces, but given its calorie density, mindful consumption is advised.
Pair with a source of protein like nuts, seeds, or Greek yogurt to create a more balanced snack that promotes satiety.
Chop and add to oatmeal, cereal, or smoothie bowls for natural sweetness and added fiber.
Use as a portable energy source during hikes or long workouts, as the natural sugars provide a quick boost.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while nutritious, dried fruit is more calorie-dense than fresh fruit due to water removal.
Things to keep in mind
The primary additive in TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA is sulfur dioxide, which is added for freshness. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals, particularly those with asthma or sulfite sensitivity, may experience adverse reactions such as respiratory issues, hives, or digestive upset. If you have a known sensitivity to sulfites, it is advisable to avoid this product. The product is naturally free from common allergens like dairy, soy, wheat, and nuts, but consumers with severe allergies should always check for cross-contamination warnings if present on the physical packaging. Overall, for most individuals, the product presents minimal caution concerns beyond potential sulfite sensitivity.
TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA scores 67/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It's considered a healthy snack option due to its high potassium and fiber content and absence of added sugars. However, it is more calorie-dense than fresh bananas, so portion control is important to manage calorie intake.
How does TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA compare to other dried fruit brands?
Compared to many other dried fruit brands, TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA stands out for its simple ingredient list (bananas and sulfur dioxide) and lack of added sugars. Some brands, like Sun-Maid Raisins, also offer single-ingredient dried fruit, while others might include oils or sweeteners. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts when comparing.
What is sulfur dioxide and why is it in this product?
Sulfur dioxide is a common food preservative added to many dried fruits, including TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA, to maintain freshness, prevent discoloration, and inhibit microbial growth. It helps extend the shelf life of the product and preserve its appearance.
What is a recommended portion size for TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA?
The declared serving size for TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA is 2 pieces. While this provides a good amount of nutrients like potassium, it's also a concentrated source of calories. For a balanced snack, consider pairing this portion with a protein source or healthy fat to enhance satiety.
Can I use TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA in baking?
Yes, TRADER JOE'S DRIED FLATTENED BANANA can be a great addition to baking. You can chop it and add it to muffins, breads, or cookies for natural sweetness and a chewy texture. It can also be rehydrated slightly by soaking in warm water before use, if a softer consistency is desired.