Sour melon bites

Smart Sweets
60 Fair
$9.69 · 6.24 oz
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Summary

Sour melon bites contain beneficial prebiotic fibers like isomalto-oligosaccharides and chicory root fiber, which support gut health. However, the product is ultra-processed with multiple additives and includes natural watermelon flavor, which lacks transparency and may contain synthetic components. Despite the presence of some healthy ingredients, the high level of processing and use of flavor additives limit its overall healthiness.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by TPG Capital
Category Snack Bars

Key ingredients 15

Isomalto-oligosaccharides
Good

Isomalto-oligosaccharides are prebiotic fibers that support gut health. They are derived from enzymatic conversion of starch and are known to promote beneficial gut bacteria. This ingredient is a healthier alternative to traditional sugars due to its low glycemic index.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas.

Benefits

Supports digestive health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and has a low glycemic impact.

Chicory root fiber
Good

Chicory root fiber is a natural source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that aids in digestion. It is extracted from the roots of the chicory plant and is often used to improve gut health. This ingredient can help increase fiber intake without adding calories.

Risks

May cause digestive issues like gas or bloating if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Promotes digestive health and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

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Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and to maintain moisture in food products. It is a basic ingredient with no nutritional value or health risks. Its presence is essential for texture and consistency in many food products.

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Modified potato starch
Neutral

Modified potato starch is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in processed foods. It is derived from potatoes and undergoes chemical modification to enhance its properties. This ingredient is generally considered safe but offers no significant nutritional benefits.

Lactic acid
Neutral

Lactic acid is used as a preservative and flavoring agent in food products. It is produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates and helps maintain acidity. This ingredient is generally recognized as safe and contributes to the sour taste.

Benefits

Contributes to flavor and preservation without significant nutritional benefits.

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Pectin
Neutral

Pectin is a natural gelling agent derived from fruits, commonly used to thicken and stabilize foods. It is extracted through a process involving heat and acid. While it aids in texture, it provides minimal nutritional benefits.

Benefits

May aid in digestion due to its fiber content, though benefits are minimal in small amounts.

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Malic acid
Neutral

Malic acid is a naturally occurring acid used to enhance flavor and acidity in foods. It is commonly found in fruits and is synthetically produced for food use. This ingredient is safe and contributes to the tart taste of products.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without providing significant nutritional benefits.

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Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer found in citrus fruits. It is widely used in food processing to add sourness and preserve freshness. This ingredient is safe and commonly used in various food products.

Benefits

Contributes to flavor and preservation without significant nutritional benefits.

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Fumaric acid
Neutral

Fumaric acid is used as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer in food products. It is synthetically produced and helps maintain the tartness of foods. This ingredient is considered safe and is used in small quantities.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and stability without providing significant nutritional benefits.

Rice flour
Neutral

Rice flour is a gluten-free flour used as a thickening agent and to improve texture in food products. It is made by milling rice grains and is a common alternative to wheat flour. While it is a versatile ingredient, it offers limited nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Provides a gluten-free alternative for thickening and texture improvement.

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Stevia leaf extract
Neutral

Stevia leaf extract is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It is used as a sugar substitute due to its zero-calorie content. This ingredient is considered safe and does not impact blood sugar levels.

Benefits

Provides a natural, calorie-free sweetening option without affecting blood sugar.

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Fruit and vegetable juice
Neutral

Fruit and vegetable juice is used for natural coloring in food products. It is derived from various fruits and vegetables and provides a natural alternative to artificial dyes. While it adds color, it does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Offers a natural coloring option without artificial additives.

Spirulina extract
Neutral

Spirulina extract is used as a natural colorant in food products. It is derived from blue-green algae and provides a vibrant color without synthetic dyes. While it is nutrient-rich, its use as a colorant does not significantly impact nutritional content.

Benefits

Provides natural coloring with minimal nutritional impact in small quantities.

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Natural watermelon flavor
Bad

Natural watermelon flavor is used to enhance the taste of food products. Despite being labeled 'natural,' it often involves processing and may contain undisclosed additives. This ingredient is penalized due to the lack of transparency and potential for synthetic components.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives and synthetic components despite 'natural' labeling.

Carnauba wax
Neutral

Carnauba wax is used as a glazing agent to provide a shiny finish to food products. It is derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm and is considered safe for consumption. This ingredient is primarily used for aesthetic purposes and does not offer nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Provides a glossy finish to products without nutritional benefits.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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