A Closer Look at the Calories in a Frube Tube
For many parents, Frubes are a convenient, portable snack for lunchboxes or on-the-go moments. But the question of how many calories are in a Frube tube is a common one for those monitoring their family's nutrition. The answer is straightforward, though it's important to understand the full nutritional context.
Breakdown of a Single 37g Frube Tube
A standard single-serving Frube tube, which weighs 37g, contains the following key nutritional components:
- Calories: Approximately 33–34 kcal
- Total Fat: 1.0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.65 g
- Carbohydrates: 4.05 g
- Sugars: 3.65–4 g
- Protein: 1.4 g
- Calcium: 60 mg
- Vitamin D: 1.25 µg
These figures are based on the standard serving size, and parents should note that a double portion of two tubes will simply double these values. The calorie count is low, making it a relatively small component of a child's daily energy intake.
Understanding the Sugar Content
While the calorie count is modest, the sugar content deserves attention. The 3.65–4g of sugar per 37g tube contributes significantly to the carbohydrate total. Yoplait, the manufacturer, states that Frubes contain no added artificial sweeteners or colours, using natural flavourings instead. However, the sugars present are a mix of naturally occurring milk sugars (lactose) and added sugar. It is always recommended to check the specific product label for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as formulas can sometimes change.
Nutritional Comparison: Frubes vs. Alternatives
When considering Frubes for a snack, it's useful to compare them to other common yogurt options. This helps in making an informed dietary choice, especially regarding sugar and overall nutritional value. Here is a comparison based on typical 100g servings, allowing for an easy comparison of nutritional density:
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Frubes (Various Flavours) | Plain Greek Yogurt (2% Fat) | Low-Fat Fruit Yogurt | Frozen Yogurt (Regular) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~88 kcal | 150 kcal | 68 kcal | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3.8 g | 20 g | Varies | 4 g |
| Sugar | 9.9–10.8 g | 8 g | Varies | 17 g |
| Fat | 2.7 g | 4 g | Varies | 2 g |
| Calcium | 162 mg (20% RI) | Varies | Varies | 150 mg (12% DV) |
This table highlights some key differences. While Frubes are lower in protein than Greek yogurt, they also contain significantly less fat. They are comparable in sugar content to some other fruit-flavoured yogurts but generally lower than many frozen yogurt options. This comparison underscores that while Frubes are a decent source of calcium and vitamin D, they are not the lowest-sugar option available and don't offer the high protein content of plain Greek yogurt.
What About the Fortification?
Frubes are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, which are critical for the bone health and development of growing children. This is a significant selling point and a genuine nutritional benefit. The vitamin D added helps the body absorb the calcium effectively. This fortification helps to position Frubes as a more nutritious choice than many other sugary snacks that lack these vital nutrients. The manufacturer emphasizes this, suggesting it's part of what makes Frubes a 'Good Choice' for parents.
How to Incorporate Frubes into a Balanced Diet
Moderation is key, particularly when it comes to snacks containing added sugar. Here are a few ways to incorporate Frubes thoughtfully into a family's diet:
- Portion Control: Stick to one or two tubes as a single serving, as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Pair with Whole Foods: Combine a Frube with other nutrient-dense foods, such as a handful of nuts, a piece of fruit, or some whole-grain crackers, to create a more balanced snack.
- Consider Homemade Alternatives: For a lower-sugar option, consider making homemade yogurt tubes using plain yogurt and fresh fruit puree. This gives full control over the ingredients.
- Lunchbox Convenience: Frubes can be frozen and will stay cool for up to 8 hours out of the fridge, making them a practical and tasty option for lunchboxes. This also slightly reduces the sugar perception as they melt slowly.
Conclusion
A single Frube tube contains approximately 33-34 calories, offering a low-calorie, portable yogurt snack that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D. While it contains some added sugar, it remains a more nutritious alternative to many other highly processed or sugary snacks on the market. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and practising moderation, parents can easily fit Frubes into a balanced and healthy diet for their children. For the most accurate nutritional details, always check the product packaging or consult authoritative sources like the Yoplait UK website.
Authoritative Outbound Link
For more detailed product and nutritional information, you can visit the official Frubes UK website.
