WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 5/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar.
Contains 27.63g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), indicating a formulation of processed ingredients.
Offers no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients like calcium or iron.
Best consumed infrequently and in very small portions as an occasional treat.
Scores -10 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
27.63g
55% of Daily Value
Sodium
105mg
5% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (27.6g)-25
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 5
WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE scores 5 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely attributed to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and its classification as a processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 27.63g of added sugar, which significantly contributes to its 315.79 calories without providing essential nutrients. The ingredient list highlights organic agave syrup and glucose syrup solids as primary sweeteners, which are forms of added sugar. The absence of protein, fiber, and any meaningful amounts of vitamins or minerals (all 0% DV for key micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, B12, Folate) results in a high 'empty calorie' penalty. Furthermore, its NOVA class 3 designation indicates it is a processed food, formulated from processed ingredients, incurring an additional penalty. Compared to a generic unbranded gummy bear, this WHOLE FOODS MARKET product has a similar nutritional profile, with both being high in added sugars and lacking beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in whole foods market, gummy bears candy, agave actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Quick Energy Source
This product can provide a rapid source of carbohydrates due to its high sugar content from organic agave syrup and glucose syrup solids. For individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as after intense physical activity or during prolonged exertion, the simple sugars are quickly absorbed. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained, making it less ideal for general dietary energy needs.
Portion-Controlled Treat
When consumed strictly in its stated serving size of 10 pieces, this product can function as a pre-portioned sweet treat. This can be helpful for individuals who find it challenging to moderate larger packages of candy. The small serving size allows for occasional indulgence without consuming excessive calories or sugar, provided it is not eaten frequently throughout the day.
Allergen-Friendly Formulation
WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE is formulated without common allergens such as gluten, dairy, nuts, or soy, based on its ingredient list. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with specific food sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients. Always check the label for any 'may contain' statements if severe allergies are a concern, but the listed ingredients themselves are free from these major allergens.
WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE receives a FoodScore of 5/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Gummy bears are typically consumed as an occasional sweet treat or dessert. A common portion is around 10-15 pieces, often eaten directly from the package. They are not intended as a meal replacement or a significant source of daily nutrition.
To mitigate the sugar impact, consider pairing a small portion of gummy bears with a source of protein and fiber, like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to slow sugar absorption.
Use these gummy bears as a small reward or treat rather than a regular snack, especially given their high added sugar content.
For children, offer a very small, pre-portioned amount of these gummy bears to teach moderation and avoid overconsumption of added sugars.
Consider swapping these gummy bears for fresh or frozen fruit when a sweet craving strikes, as fruit provides natural sugars along with fiber and vitamins.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE is its high concentration of added sugars, specifically from organic agave syrup and glucose syrup solids. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very limited quantities, as it can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose. While the product uses natural flavors and colors from vegetable extracts, it is still a processed food (NOVA 3) and lacks the nutritional benefits of whole foods. There are no common allergens explicitly listed in the ingredients, but consumers with severe allergies should always check for cross-contamination warnings on the packaging.
Is WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE healthy?
No, WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE is not considered a healthy food choice. It scores 5/100 on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content (27.63g per 100g) and lack of 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 WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE compare to other gummy candies?
Compared to many conventional gummy candies, such as Haribo Goldbears, WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE has a similar nutritional profile in terms of high added sugar and lack of beneficial nutrients. While it uses organic agave syrup and natural colors, its overall impact on diet quality remains comparable to other highly processed sweet treats in the candy category.
What is 'organic agave syrup' and is it better than other sugars?
Organic agave syrup is a sweetener derived from the agave plant. While it is often marketed as a 'natural' sweetener, it is still a form of added sugar and contributes calories without significant nutritional value. From a metabolic perspective, it is largely fructose, which is processed by the liver, and its impact on blood sugar is similar to other added sugars when consumed in excess.
What is a reasonable portion size for these gummy bears?
The suggested serving size is 10 pieces. Given the high added sugar content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even less. Consuming larger amounts frequently would significantly increase your daily intake of added sugars, potentially exceeding recommended limits and contributing to excess calorie intake.
Are these gummy bears suitable for a vegan diet?
Based on the ingredient list provided, which includes citrus pectin instead of gelatin, and vegetable extracts for coloring, WHOLE FOODS MARKET GUMMY BEARS CANDY, AGAVE appears to be suitable for a vegan diet. There are no animal-derived ingredients explicitly listed. However, always check the packaging for specific vegan certifications if this is a strict dietary requirement.