The exact number of calories in a pack of Tru Fru is not a single, fixed number. Instead, the total calorie count depends on the flavor and product type, as well as the total bag size. Tru Fru offers several distinct product lines: Hyper-Chilled Frozen Fresh, Hyper-Dried Fresh, and Tru Fru Bites. The most common varieties, such as the Hyper-Chilled raspberries and blueberries, typically contain 90 calories per serving. However, other products, particularly the Hyper-Dried options, have higher calorie counts per serving.
Calorie Breakdown by Product Line
To understand the total calories in a pack, you first need to look at the serving size and the number of servings per container. An 8-ounce bag of Hyper-Chilled Tru Fru, with 8 servings per container at 90 calories each, would contain a total of 720 calories. On the other hand, a smaller 2.3-ounce bag of Hyper-Dried bananas might contain 2.5 servings, with 100 calories each, totaling 250 calories. This means you must check the label for the specific product you're consuming to get an accurate total.
Hyper-Chilled Frozen Fresh Fruit
This line features hyper-chilled, ripe fruit immersed in chocolate. Most of these products maintain a consistent 90 calories per 1 oz serving.
- White and Dark Chocolate: Flavors like raspberries, blueberries, and cherries often contain 90 calories per 1 oz serving.
- White and Milk Chocolate: Varieties such as strawberries and raspberries also typically have 90 calories per 1 oz serving.
- Chocolate and Peanut Butter: For example, the frozen bananas in chocolate and peanut butter typically have a slightly higher calorie count, around 100 calories per 1 oz serving.
Hyper-Dried Fresh Fruit
The hyper-dried products are shelf-stable and more concentrated, which generally results in a higher calorie count per serving.
- Chocolate-Covered: Products like hyper-dried strawberries and raspberries often contain around 150 calories per 1/4 cup serving.
- Creme-Coated: The creme versions of hyper-dried fruit, such as peaches and blueberries, also come in at about 150 calories per serving.
Tru Fru Bites
This is a newer line of products, which includes flavors like Cookies & Cream and Fruity Pebbles. Their calorie counts can vary, so it's always best to check the specific packaging.
Comparison of Tru Fru Product Calories
| Product Line | Example Flavor | Serving Size | Calories per Serving | Total Calories (8oz bag)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyper-Chilled Fresh | Raspberries (White & Dark) | 1 oz (about 5-7 pieces) | 90 | 720 |
| Hyper-Chilled Fresh | Strawberries (White & Milk) | 1 oz (about 3 pieces) | 90 | 720 |
| Hyper-Dried Fresh | Strawberries (White & Dark) | 1/4 cup | 150 | 1,200 |
| Hyper-Dried Fresh | Bananas (Peanut Butter & Dark) | 1 oz (about 2 pieces) | 100 | 800 |
| Tru Fru Bites | Cookies & Cream (strawberries) | 1 oz | ~100 | ~800 |
*Note: Total calories for an entire pack are an estimate based on an 8-ounce bag and may vary based on product line and packaging size. Always refer to the product's nutrition label for precise information.
Factors Influencing Tru Fru Calorie Count
Several factors contribute to the calorie count beyond just the fruit itself. The type and amount of chocolate or other coatings, whether the fruit is frozen or dried, and the size of the individual fruit pieces all play a role in the final nutritional profile.
- Type of Chocolate: White and milk chocolate often have slightly different fat and sugar contents than dark chocolate, which can impact calories. The concentration and blend of chocolate used can also vary between products.
- Hyper-Dried vs. Hyper-Chilled: The hyper-drying process removes water from the fruit, concentrating its natural sugars and resulting in a higher calorie density per gram compared to the frozen, hyper-chilled varieties.
- Fruit Variation: The size of the fruit pieces can also mean that a serving size of one fruit (e.g., strawberries) might contain fewer pieces than a serving of another (e.g., blueberries), even with the same calorie count.
Is Tru Fru a "Healthy" Snack?
While Tru Fru products use real fruit, the addition of chocolate and sugar means they should be viewed as an indulgent treat rather than a substitute for whole, unprocessed fruit. Many varieties are relatively low in calories per serving compared to other desserts, but they are not calorie-free. They contain added sugar and saturated fats, so moderation is key for those watching their diet. The Environmental Working Group has even classified some varieties as having moderate processing concerns.
For those looking for a healthier alternative, opting for plain fresh fruit or making your own chocolate-dipped fruit at home allows for more control over sugar and calorie content. For example, a single cup of fresh raspberries contains only about 64 calories and no added sugar. You can also consider Tru Fru's yogurt-and-granola-coated options for a potentially different nutritional profile.
Conclusion
There is no single answer for how many calories are in a pack of Tru Fru, as it varies significantly by flavor and whether the fruit is hyper-chilled (frozen) or hyper-dried. While many popular frozen varieties clock in at a manageable 90 calories per serving, the hyper-dried options are more calorie-dense at around 150 calories per serving. To determine the total calories in an entire bag, it is essential to check the specific nutrition label for the serving size and number of servings. Ultimately, Tru Fru is best enjoyed as a permissible, portion-controlled indulgence rather than a primary source of daily fruit intake, especially for those mindful of their sugar and calorie consumption.
