Understanding the Calorie Count in Oatmeal Cream Pies
The iconic Oatmeal Creme Pie, first introduced by McKee Foods in 1935, is a staple of American snack culture. While a nostalgic treat, its nutritional profile is far from a wholesome health food. The number of calories in two oatmeal cream pies is not a fixed number, but instead varies based on the specific product and portion size.
The most common products are the standard-sized pie, often sold in multipacks, and the larger "Big Pack" version. The nutritional information for each of these differs significantly, and it's essential to check the packaging to confirm the exact numbers for the product you have.
Standard vs. 'Big Pack' Oatmeal Creme Pies
Many consumers don't realize there are different sizes of this popular snack. The standard-sized pie is what you will typically find in a 12-count family pack. The 'Big Pack' version is a larger, single-serving item.
For the standard size (1.3 oz or 38g) found in multi-packs, one pie contains 170 calories. This means two standard oatmeal cream pies would contain:
- $170 \text{ calories/pie} \times 2 \text{ pies} = 340 \text{ calories}$
The bigger 75g version, often sold individually or in larger boxes, has a higher calorie count. According to nutritional data, one of these pies contains 330 calories. Therefore, a pair of these would amount to:
- $330 \text{ calories/pie} \times 2 \text{ pies} = 660 \text{ calories}$
A Deeper Nutritional Look
Beyond just the calories, it's insightful to look at the macronutrient breakdown. Both versions are high in carbohydrates and fats, with a significant amount of sugar. Here is a comparison of the nutritional facts for both standard and 'Big Pack' oatmeal cream pies:
| Nutrient (per pie) | Standard (38g) | Big Pack (75g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 170 | 330 |
| Total Fat | 7g | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Sodium | 150mg | 310mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26g | 52g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 13g | 26g |
| Protein | 1g | 3g |
As the table shows, the "Big Pack" pie is nearly double the size and contains nearly double the amount of fat, saturated fat, and sugar compared to its smaller counterpart. The overall macronutrient composition is primarily carbohydrates and fat, with very little protein or fiber.
The Ingredients and Health Implications
The nutritional data reveals that oatmeal cream pies are a calorie-dense and sugar-heavy treat. When examining the ingredient list, it's clear why some health experts classify these as highly processed foods. A typical list of ingredients includes corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, enriched bleached flour, palm and soybean oils, and various artificial flavors and preservatives. The use of certain additives has raised concerns from organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Key ingredient concerns often include:
- Added Sugars: Both versions contain a very high amount of sugar, contributing to the total calorie count and potentially increasing the risk of health issues like type 2 diabetes when consumed excessively.
- Unhealthy Fats: The reliance on palm and soybean oils contributes to a high saturated and unhealthy fat content.
- Artificial Additives: The ingredient lists often contain preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors, which have been flagged for various health concerns.
Making Healthier Choices
For those who love the classic oatmeal cream pie flavor but want a healthier alternative, there are options. Several websites, such as Dishing Out Health, offer recipes for homemade versions using more natural ingredients like almond butter, coconut sugar, and whole grains. Baking your own allows you to control the sugar content and use healthier fats, eliminating many of the preservatives and artificial components found in the store-bought version. The homemade route is an excellent way to indulge in a nostalgic treat with a more favorable nutritional profile.
Conclusion
In summary, the calorie content of two oatmeal cream pies can range from 340 to 660, depending on the size you choose. The standard-sized pies provide 170 calories each, while the larger "Big Pack" versions contain 330 calories per pie. Beyond the calorie count, these snacks are notably high in sugar and unhealthy fats. For a more health-conscious approach, consider homemade alternatives that offer a similar taste with a better nutritional balance.
For further information on the composition of various snack foods, consider referencing the nutritional databases and ingredient analyses provided by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
