The appeal of fruit snacks is understandable: they are convenient, sweet, and often marketed with health claims like being made with real fruit. However, a closer look at the nutritional content and ingredients is necessary to determine if they align with a healthy nutrition diet. This is especially true for products like Member's Mark fruit strips, which can appear to be a healthier choice than candy but still require scrutiny.
The Ingredient Breakdown: Not All Member's Mark Fruit Snacks Are Equal
When evaluating the healthiness of Member's Mark's offerings, it is important to distinguish between their "Fruit Strips" and "Fruity Snacks." Based on ingredient lists found via Sam's Club, these are distinct products with different compositions and nutritional profiles.
The Case of Member's Mark Fruit Strips
These products tend to have a simpler ingredient list, which gives them the illusion of being a minimally processed and healthier option. The ingredients typically feature a blend of fruit puree concentrate and fruit juice concentrate, along with pectin for texture and natural flavors.
- Concentrated Sugars: While derived from fruit, the concentration process removes much of the water and fiber, leaving behind a highly concentrated source of sugar. A single 14g strip can contain 10g of total sugars, with 4g listed as added sugar in some variants.
- Low Fiber: The strips contain very little dietary fiber—around 1 gram per serving. This is significantly less than what is found in a piece of whole fruit, which is crucial for healthy digestion and blood sugar regulation.
- Natural Flavors: The presence of “natural flavors” can be a point of concern for some, as the term can mask a complex mixture of chemicals designed to mimic the flavor of fresh fruit.
The Reality of Member's Mark Fruity Snacks
In contrast, the "Fruity Snacks" variety is a different story. These are often made with less-desirable ingredients that push them firmly into the realm of ultra-processed foods.
- Primary Ingredients are Sugars: Ingredients like corn syrup and sugar often top the list, meaning they are the most prevalent components by weight.
- Artificial Colors: EWG data shows that some Member's Mark fruity snacks include synthetic food dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5, which are flagged as food additives of concern.
- Nutritional Void: These snacks are often fortified with vitamin C to appear healthier, but this added vitamin does not compensate for the high sugar content and lack of other essential nutrients and fiber.
Nutritional Comparison: Whole Fruit vs. Fruit Strips vs. Candy
To put the nutritional content into perspective, a comparison with whole fruit and typical candy is illuminating.
| Feature | Whole Fruit (e.g., an apple) | Member's Mark Fruit Strip | Fruit-Flavored Candy (e.g., gummies) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar | Naturally occurring sugars, balanced by fiber. | High concentration of natural and some added sugars. | High concentration of added sugars and corn syrup. |
| Fiber | Excellent source of dietary fiber. | Very low (approx. 1g per strip). | Very low or zero fiber. |
| Vitamins | Naturally occurring vitamins and antioxidants. | Typically fortified with Vitamin C; other vitamins are negligible. | Limited or no natural vitamins; sometimes fortified synthetically. |
| Processing | Minimally processed or unprocessed. | Highly processed; fruit puree is concentrated and dried. | Highly processed; made from sugar, gelatin, and additives. |
| Health Impact | Promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar. | High sugar concentration can spike blood sugar; contributes to dental decay. | High sugar contributes to empty calories, weight gain, and dental issues. |
The Highs and Lows of Fruit Strip Consumption
Potential "Highs" (When consumed in moderation):
- Convenience: Fruit strips offer a mess-free, on-the-go snack option, particularly for children.
- Better than Candy: The Member's Mark Fruit Strips (not the Fruity Snacks) are a slightly better alternative to pure candy, as they are derived from real fruit concentrates and lack artificial colors.
- Portion Control: The individually wrapped servings allow for easy portion control, though care is needed not to over-consume due to high sugar content.
Significant "Lows" (Concerns):
- Nutritional Imbalance: The high concentration of sugar with very little fiber is not a balanced nutritional profile and can contribute to sugar crashes and cravings.
- Dental Health Risks: The sticky, high-sugar nature of fruit strips can lead to dental decay, especially in children.
- Nutrient Loss: The processing involved in creating fruit leather and strips eliminates much of the nutritional value of whole fruit.
- Potential Pesticide Residues: As noted by EWG, non-organic fruit leathers can sometimes contain pesticide residues, concentrated during the drying process.
Incorporating Fruit Snacks into a Balanced Diet
It's important to view fruit strips and other similar snacks for what they are: concentrated sugar treats. They should not replace whole, unprocessed fruits in your daily nutrition. If you choose to include them in your diet, consider the following strategy:
- Read the Label: Always check the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel. Choose products with the fewest ingredients and minimal or no added sugars. Look for products that list whole fruit or fruit puree as the first ingredient.
- Practice Moderation: Reserve these snacks for occasional treats. Instead of a daily lunchbox staple, think of them as a dessert substitute.
- Pair with Other Foods: Pair fruit strips with a source of protein or healthy fat, like nuts or cheese, to help slow down the absorption of sugar and prevent a blood sugar spike.
Healthier Alternatives for Your Sweet Tooth
For a truly healthy snack, consider alternatives that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals without concentrated sugar.
- Fresh, Whole Fruit: A medium-sized apple or a handful of berries is the gold standard, providing maximum fiber and nutrients.
- Homemade Fruit Leather: You can make your own fruit leather at home with a dehydrator and minimal ingredients, giving you full control over the sugar content.
- Dried Fruit (Unsweetened): Opt for dried fruits like raisins or unsweetened dried mango, but be mindful of portion sizes as the sugars are still concentrated.
- Plain Yogurt with Fruit: Mix fresh or frozen berries into plain yogurt for a snack with a good balance of protein, carbs, and fiber.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Members Mark Fruit Strips
So, are members Mark fruit Strips healthy? The answer is not a simple yes or no. The "Fruit Strips" are a better choice than the sugar-laden "Fruity Snacks," but neither should be considered a truly healthy, nutrient-dense option. Both are highly processed, lack the crucial fiber of whole fruit, and deliver a concentrated dose of sugar. For those seeking optimal nutrition, especially for children, whole fruit or minimally processed alternatives are the best choice. View Member's Mark fruit strips as an occasional sweet treat rather than a nutritional cornerstone of your diet.
Center for Science in the Public Interest: Phony Fruit Snacks
