Old fashioned vanilla ice cream

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Common questions

Is Old fashioned vanilla ice cream healthy?

Old fashioned vanilla ice cream scores 68/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This ice cream contains high-quality ingredients like cream, milk, and egg yolks, which contribute to its rich texture and nutritional value.

How processed is Old fashioned vanilla ice cream?

Old fashioned vanilla ice cream is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Old fashioned vanilla ice cream's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cream, Milk, Vanilla Extract count in its favor; Sugar, Natural Flavor are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Old fashioned vanilla ice cream

Smith's
68 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Kroger
Category Ice Cream
Summary

This ice cream contains high-quality ingredients like cream, milk, and egg yolks, which contribute to its rich texture and nutritional value. However, the presence of refined sugar and natural flavors, along with the use of gums as stabilizers, indicates a moderate level of processing. While it avoids major harmful additives, the refined sugar content and processing level prevent it from achieving a higher score.

Key ingredients 9

Cream
Good

Cream is a high-quality source of dairy fat, providing a rich texture and flavor. It is minimally processed and contains beneficial fatty acids. When sourced from grass-fed cows, it can offer additional health benefits.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which may contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, supporting overall health.

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Milk
Good

Milk is a nutrient-rich liquid that provides essential vitamins and minerals. It is a minimally processed ingredient that supports bone health. When sourced from grass-fed cows, it can offer additional omega-3 fatty acids.

Risks

Lactose intolerance can cause digestive issues for some individuals.

Benefits

Excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, supporting bone health and muscle growth.

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Vanilla Extract
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Adds natural flavor and aroma to foods without significant nutritional impact.

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Skim Milk
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health and muscle function.

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Pasteurized Egg Yolks
Neutral

Egg yolks are a source of protein and essential nutrients like choline. Pasteurization ensures safety by reducing the risk of salmonella. They provide richness and emulsification in recipes.

Risks

High in cholesterol, which may be a concern for individuals with specific health conditions.

Benefits

Rich in choline, supporting brain health and cell membrane integrity.

Tara Gum
Neutral

Tara gum is a natural thickening agent derived from the seeds of the tara tree. It is used to improve texture and stability in food products. It is considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides texture and stability to food products without significant nutritional impact.

Guar Gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a natural thickener derived from guar beans, used to improve texture and consistency. It is minimally processed and widely used in the food industry. It is generally recognized as safe when consumed in typical amounts.

Risks

May cause digestive issues like gas or bloating in some individuals when consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Helps improve the texture and consistency of food products.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a refined carbohydrate that provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes. It is a highly processed ingredient with no nutritional benefits.

Risks

High intake can increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.

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Natural Flavor
Bad

Umbrella term that can hide dozens of undisclosed synthetic constituents.

Risks

Potential allergens may be present, and the lack of transparency can be a concern for some consumers.

Benefits

Enhances the flavor profile of food products without adding significant nutritional value.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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