Puff pastry mince pies

Marks & Spencer
60 Fair
$29.68 · 510 g
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Summary

This product contains a mix of beneficial ingredients like unsalted butter and dried vine fruits, which provide some nutritional value. However, it is heavily processed and includes refined sugars and vegetable suet, which are less desirable due to their lack of nutritional benefits and potential health concerns. The presence of additives and the high level of processing further impact its overall healthiness.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 3
Category Cookies

Key ingredients 16

Wheatflour
Neutral

Wheatflour is a staple ingredient providing structure and texture to baked goods. It contains gluten, which can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is a refined carbohydrate, offering limited nutritional benefits compared to whole grains.

Risks

Contains gluten, which can cause adverse reactions in individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates for energy and is essential for the texture of baked goods.

Unsalted Butter
Good

Unsalted butter is a natural fat that enhances flavor and texture in baking. It contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E. When sourced from grass-fed cows, it offers higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and CLA.

Risks

High in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health.

Benefits

Rich in fat-soluble vitamins and provides a creamy texture and rich flavor to baked goods.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a refined carbohydrate that provides sweetness but lacks nutritional value. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay. It is often used in processed foods to enhance flavor and texture.

Risks

High intake can contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

Benefits

Provides quick energy and enhances the flavor of foods.

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Dried Vine Fruits
Good

Dried vine fruits like sultanas, currants, and raisins are natural sweeteners rich in fiber and antioxidants. They provide essential nutrients such as potassium and iron. Their natural sugars are more beneficial than refined sugars when consumed in moderation.

Risks

High in natural sugars, which can contribute to calorie intake if consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and providing essential nutrients.

Bramley Apples
Good

Bramley apples are a source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, contributing to overall health. They add natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods. Their high pectin content aids in setting jams and jellies.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immune function.

Dried Glucose
Bad

Dried glucose is a simple sugar used to provide sweetness and energy. It is rapidly absorbed, leading to quick spikes in blood sugar levels. It lacks nutritional benefits and is often used in processed foods.

Risks

Can cause rapid blood sugar spikes, contributing to insulin resistance and metabolic issues.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks other nutritional benefits.

Rice Flour
Neutral

Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, often used to improve texture in gluten-free baking. It is low in nutrients compared to whole grain flours. It is a refined carbohydrate, providing energy but limited nutritional value.

Benefits

Offers a gluten-free option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

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Vegetable Suet
Bad

Vegetable suet is a processed fat often made from palm oil and other vegetable oils. It is high in saturated fats and lacks the nutritional benefits of unprocessed fats. The use of palm oil raises environmental and health concerns.

Risks

High in saturated fats and may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a stable fat source for baking, enhancing texture and flavor.

Candied Orange And Lemon Peel
Neutral

Candied orange and lemon peel add flavor and texture to baked goods. They are high in sugar due to the candying process. The natural citrus oils provide aromatic compounds that enhance flavor.

Risks

High sugar content due to the candying process.

Benefits

Adds flavor and aromatic compounds from citrus oils.

Demerara Sugar
Neutral

Demerara sugar is a type of raw cane sugar with a distinctive flavor and texture. It is less processed than white sugar but still high in calories and carbohydrates. It is often used for its crunchy texture and caramel-like flavor.

Risks

High in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a unique flavor and texture to baked goods.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is essential for enhancing flavor and preserving food. It is used in small amounts in baking to balance sweetness and improve texture. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

Excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food.

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Acetic Acid
Neutral

Acetic acid is used as an acidity regulator and preservative in food products. It is naturally found in vinegar and contributes to the tangy flavor. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food processing.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and acidity regulator, enhancing flavor stability.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer found in citrus fruits. It is used to add acidity and improve flavor stability in processed foods. It is generally safe but can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause irritation in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative.

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Ground Spices
Good

Ground spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add flavor and aroma to foods. They contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Spices can enhance the sensory experience of food without adding calories.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Black Treacle
Neutral

Black treacle is a thick, dark syrup with a strong, distinctive flavor. It is high in sugar and calories but provides some minerals like iron and calcium. It is used to add depth of flavor and color to baked goods.

Risks

High in sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides minerals like iron and calcium, along with a rich flavor.

Concentrated Lemon Juice
Neutral

Concentrated lemon juice is used to add acidity and flavor to foods. It is a source of vitamin C and provides a tangy taste. The concentration process may reduce some of the natural nutrients found in fresh lemon juice.

Benefits

Adds flavor and provides vitamin C.

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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