FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsweetWONKA· 4 BARS

WONKA, LAFFY TAFFY, TAFFY CANDY, BANANA, BANANA

WONKA LAFFY TAFFY, BANANA receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This product scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
  • It contains 34.1g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to generic taffy, this product is nutritionally similar.
  • Consume in very small portions to limit added sugar intake.
  • 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
34.1g
68% of Daily Value
Sodium
127.95mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (34.1g)-25
Saturated fat (3.9g)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

WONKA LAFFY TAFFY, BANANA scores 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its significant amount of added sugar, which is 34.1g per 100g. This contributes a substantial penalty to the overall score. The product also contains 3.9g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a minor penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, meaning it contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens and has undergone extensive industrial processing, resulting in a 10-point penalty. The lack of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins (all 0% DV) means it offers no nutritional bonuses and is considered to provide empty calories, leading to a 15-point penalty. Ingredients such as corn syrup, sugar, and palm oil contribute to its caloric density without providing beneficial nutrients. Compared to a generic unbranded taffy, this WONKA product exhibits a very similar nutritional profile, offering no distinct advantages.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in wonka, laffy taffy, taffy candy, banana, banana actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Quick Energy

This taffy candy is primarily composed of simple carbohydrates from corn syrup and sugar. These ingredients are rapidly digested and absorbed, providing a quick source of glucose to the bloodstream. For individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as during prolonged physical activity or in situations requiring a rapid sugar intake, this product can serve that specific purpose. However, this energy is short-lived and not sustained.

Convenient for Specific Dietary Needs

WONKA LAFFY TAFFY is naturally gluten-free and contains no protein, making it suitable for individuals with celiac disease or those following a very low-protein diet. It also contains no common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, or dairy, though cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing. This can make it a convenient option for specific, limited dietary requirements when other snack choices are restricted.

Minimal Sodium Content

With only 127.95mg of sodium per 100g, this product has a relatively low sodium content compared to many other processed snacks. For individuals monitoring their sodium intake, this aspect might be considered. However, it's important to balance this with the high sugar content and overall lack of other beneficial nutrients.

How to eat it

Laffy Taffy is typically consumed as a treat or dessert. It's often eaten straight from the wrapper, either as a single bar or multiple bars depending on preference. Due to its high sugar content, it's best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of the diet.

To mitigate the sugar impact, consider enjoying a very small piece alongside a meal rich in fiber and protein, which can help slow sugar absorption.
Portion control is key: limit yourself to one small bar at a time to manage added sugar intake effectively.
Consider this a rare treat rather than a daily snack. Opt for whole fruits or nuts for more nutritious snack options.
Pairing with a source of healthy fats or protein, like a few almonds, could slightly buffer the sugar rush.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in this product, which is a primary concern for overall health. Excessive intake of added sugars can contribute to increased calorie intake without providing essential nutrients, potentially leading to weight gain and other health issues. The ingredient list includes Yellow 5, an artificial food coloring, which some individuals may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities. While the product does not explicitly declare major allergens like milk, peanuts, or tree nuts, it does contain soy lecithin, an emulsifier derived from soy, which is a common allergen. Individuals with a soy allergy should exercise caution. Given the high sugar content, individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes should consume this product very sparingly.

Swap suggestions
Good
Brownie
Score74
Good
Donut Glazed
Score71
Good
STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score71
Good
STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY
Score69
Good
SIMPLE MILLS PANCAKE & WAFFLE ALMOND FLOUR BAKING MIX, PANCAKE & WAFFLE
Score68
Good
STRETCH ISLAND STRAWBERRY FRUIT STRIPS, STRAWBERRY
Score67
Reader questions
Is WONKA LAFFY TAFFY healthy?
WONKA LAFFY TAFFY is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it provides minimal nutritional value. Its primary ingredients are corn syrup and sugar, contributing to a high amount of added sugars and very few essential vitamins or minerals. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a health-promoting food.
How does WONKA LAFFY TAFFY compare to other candies?
Compared to other similar candies like Skittles or Starburst, WONKA LAFFY TAFFY has a comparable nutritional profile, being high in added sugars and low in beneficial nutrients. Most candies in this category are ultra-processed and provide primarily empty calories. For example, a serving of Hershey's Kisses also contains significant added sugar and minimal micronutrients.
What is palm oil, and why is it in this product?
Palm oil is a vegetable oil used in many processed foods for its texture, stability, and cost-effectiveness. In WONKA LAFFY TAFFY, it contributes to the product's smooth consistency and helps prevent stickiness. It is a source of saturated fat, which contributes to the product's overall fat content.
How much LAFFY TAFFY can I eat in a day?
Given its high added sugar content (34.1g per 100g), it's advisable to consume WONKA LAFFY TAFFY in very small quantities. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. A single serving of this taffy can contribute significantly to that limit, so moderation is key.
Does LAFFY TAFFY contain artificial colors?
Yes, the ingredient list for WONKA LAFFY TAFFY, BANANA includes Yellow 5, which is an artificial food coloring. Some individuals may choose to avoid artificial colors due to potential sensitivities or dietary preferences.
Can children eat LAFFY TAFFY?
Children can consume LAFFY TAFFY in very limited amounts as an occasional treat. However, due to its high added sugar content, regular consumption is not recommended as it can contribute to excessive calorie intake and displace more nutrient-dense foods in their diet. Prioritize whole foods for children's snacks.

Explore more

CategoryAll sweets & desserts BrandAll WONKA SKUs Competitor · 71/100STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Competitor · 69/100STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Head-to-headWONKA, LAFFY TAFFY, TAFFY CANDY, BANANA, BANANA vs. Brownie Head-to-headWONKA, LAFFY TAFFY, TAFFY CANDY, BANANA, BANANA vs. Donut Glazed Head-to-headWONKA, LAFFY TAFFY, TAFFY CANDY, BANANA, BANANA vs. STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY ORIGINAL FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY Head-to-headWONKA, LAFFY TAFFY, TAFFY CANDY, BANANA, BANANA vs. STRETCH ISLAND RASPBERRY FRUIT LEATHERS, RASPBERRY

Data & references