What are Frollies?
Manufactured by Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, Frollies are a line of fruity ice pops launched in 2025. They are known for their sorbet-like creamy texture and a variety of fruit flavors, such as Strawberry, Pineapple, and Watermelon. The company promotes them as being made with "real fruit juices and purees" and no artificial colors or flavors. For instance, the watermelon flavor includes small chocolatey pieces to mimic seeds, adding a textural surprise. Positioned as a fun and guilt-free snack for both kids and adults, the perception of Frollies as a 'healthy' treat is a primary marketing message. However, the reality of their nutritional profile requires a closer look beyond the feel-good branding to determine if they are indeed good for you.
The sweet truth about sugar content
Despite the "real fruit" claim, the sugar content is a critical factor in determining if Frollies are good for you. A standard two-pop serving contains a substantial 22 grams of added sugar, primarily sourced from sugar and corn syrup. This accounts for nearly half of the daily recommended added sugar intake for an average 2,000-calorie diet. This level of added sugar contributes empty calories without providing significant nutrients. Overconsumption of added sugars is linked to several health issues, including increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. While they are lower in calories and fat than many desserts, the high added sugar means they are still best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
Deconstructing the ingredients
Examining the ingredient list reveals a picture of a moderately processed product. A typical Frollies ingredient list includes:
- Water
- Sugar
- Corn Syrup
- Fruit puree and/or juice from concentrate
- Thickeners (e.g., carob bean gum, guar gum)
- Natural flavors
- Natural colorings (e.g., beet juice, turmeric oleoresin)
While the use of real fruit juice and natural colorings is a positive, the reliance on corn syrup and added sugar is a counterbalance. The EWG notes that "natural flavors" are often complex chemical mixtures used to manipulate taste and can be a concern for some health-conscious consumers. The use of thickeners is also noted as a contributor to the product's processed nature. For example, guar gum has been linked to potential digestive issues in some individuals. While not inherently harmful in the quantities found, these ingredients are a far cry from a whole-food, unprocessed fruit snack.
Frollies vs. other frozen treats
When deciding if Frollies are a good option, it's helpful to compare them to other popular frozen treats. Frollies occupy a middle ground, offering a lower-calorie, lower-fat alternative to traditional ice cream while still containing more added sugar and processing than a truly whole-food option like homemade fruit popsicles.
| Feature | Frollies | Traditional Ice Cream | Homemade Fruit Popsicles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | Low (approx. 60 kcal/pop) | High (200-250 kcal/100g) | Variable, typically very low |
| Added Sugar | High (22g per 2 pops) | Variable, often high | None, or minimal/natural |
| Fat | None | High, especially saturated | None, unless adding full-fat dairy |
| Processing | Moderate | High (many brands) | Minimal/Low |
| Main Ingredients | Water, sugar, corn syrup, fruit puree | Dairy, sugar, emulsifiers, flavors | Whole fruits, juice, yogurt |
| Nutritional Value | Minimal | Low (some calcium, fat) | High (vitamins, fiber) |
A healthier DIY alternative: Making homemade fruit popsicles
For those seeking a truly healthy frozen treat, making your own at home is the best option. This provides full control over the ingredients and eliminates the need for added sugar, corn syrup, or thickeners. Homemade popsicles made with whole, fresh fruit and a low-sugar base offer superior nutritional benefits, including vitamins and fiber.
Simple homemade popsicle recipe:
- Blend fresh or frozen fruit (like strawberries, pineapple, or watermelon) with a liquid base like water, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt.
- Optional: Add natural sweeteners like maple syrup, a splash of citrus juice for brightness, or herbs like mint.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.
This method produces a snack that is genuinely healthy, refreshing, and free from the compromises of store-bought versions.
The verdict: Are frollies good for you?
Frollies are a fun and delicious treat, but the high added sugar content means they are not a health food. Their advantages lie in being a lower-calorie and lower-fat alternative to many traditional frozen desserts, which can be beneficial for those managing their intake. However, their nutritional value is minimal, and they contain added sugars and moderately processed ingredients. Therefore, enjoying Frollies occasionally as a treat is perfectly acceptable, but they should not be considered a staple of a healthy, balanced diet. For truly healthful options, homemade fruit popsicles remain the superior choice.
Conclusion
In summary, whether Frollies are "good for you" depends entirely on perspective and context. As a replacement for a heavy, high-fat dessert like ice cream, they offer a lighter alternative. However, as a daily snack or a source of nutrition, they fall short due to their high added sugar and lack of fiber. The real key to healthy snacking, even with frozen treats, lies in moderation and informed choices. Understanding the ingredients and nutritional information empowers consumers to make better decisions for themselves and their families.
