The Calorie Breakdown of an Its-It
An Its-It ice cream sandwich is a multi-layered treat consisting of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two large oatmeal cookies, all covered in a chocolate coating. To understand the total calorie count, it's helpful to break down the nutritional contribution of each component. The standard vanilla flavor, for instance, typically provides 320 to 340 calories, with roughly half of those calories coming from fat. The sugar content is also notable, contributing significantly to the total energy value.
Its-It's Key Ingredients and Their Impact
The composition of an Its-It is what determines its caloric density. The key ingredients include:
- Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream core is a major contributor of calories, primarily from cream, milk, and sugar. The amount of fat in the ice cream is a significant factor in the overall caloric total.
- Oatmeal Cookies: The chewy oatmeal cookies add carbohydrates and fiber, as well as calories from brown sugar and palm oil.
- Chocolate Coating: The hard chocolate shell provides additional calories from fats and sugars, including coconut oil and cocoa.
Comparing Calories Across Different Its-It Flavors
While the classic vanilla is the most popular, Its-It offers several other flavors and sizes, each with its own calorie count. This variation is mainly due to differences in the ice cream base and any added flavorings or mix-ins. For example, a Chips-It, which uses chocolate chip cookies instead of oatmeal, has a slightly different nutritional profile. The following table provides a comparison of calories and key macronutrients for several Its-It products based on a standard serving size.
Its-It Nutritional Comparison Table
| Flavor | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Total Carbs | Sugars |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Vanilla Sandwich | 320-340 kcal | 18g | 10-12g | 36-39g | 17-21g |
| Chips-It Vanilla Sandwich | 280 kcal | 14g | 9g | 36g | 21g |
| Mint Mini Sandwich | 340 kcal | 18g | 10g | 39g | 17g |
| Strawberry Sandwich | 320 kcal | ~19g | ~10g | ~39g | ~17g |
Note: Calorie and macronutrient values can vary slightly by product batch and source. For precise, up-to-date information, it is always best to check the nutritional label on the product packaging.
How to Factor an Its-It into Your Diet
Given the calorie and sugar content, an Its-It ice cream sandwich is best considered an occasional indulgence rather than a regular dietary staple. For those monitoring their caloric intake, mindful consumption is key. Here are some strategies:
- Portion Control: Opt for the smaller 'mini' versions if available to enjoy the flavor with fewer calories. Be aware, however, that some mini versions surprisingly have higher calories per sandwich than standard sizes based on some nutritional data.
- Balance with a Healthy Diet: Enjoying an Its-It is easier to justify within a balanced diet that is rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables. A treat can fit into a healthy lifestyle when not overdone.
- Account for Macronutrients: The high fat and sugar content mean that an Its-It provides a significant portion of your daily recommended intake for these macros. Be sure to consider this when planning your other meals for the day.
- Active Lifestyle: Pairing a treat like an Its-It with regular physical activity can help mitigate the effects on your weight. For example, a 320-calorie treat would require a substantial workout to burn off.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories in an Its-It ice cream sandwich ranges from approximately 280 to 340, depending on the flavor and size. The classic vanilla is typically around 320-340 calories, while a Chips-It is closer to 280. The caloric density is primarily derived from the ice cream, the oatmeal cookies, and the chocolate coating. As with any high-calorie dessert, moderation is key to incorporating it into a healthy diet. Always check the specific product label for the most accurate information. For more detailed nutritional breakdowns of specific Its-It flavors, visit a trusted food database like Eat This Much.
Key Takeaways
- Standard Calories: A classic vanilla Its-It ice cream sandwich contains roughly 320 to 340 calories.
- Flavor Variation: Calorie counts differ among flavors; for instance, the Chips-It flavor has a lower calorie count at 280 kcal.
- High Fat & Sugar: A significant portion of the calories comes from fat (around 18g) and sugar (17-21g), depending on the flavor.
- Treat in Moderation: Given its caloric and macronutrient profile, an Its-It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
- Check the Label: For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, always consult the product packaging directly.
FAQs
Question: What are the main ingredients in a standard Its-It ice cream sandwich? Answer: The main ingredients are vanilla ice cream, oatmeal cookies, and a chocolate-flavored coating.
Question: Is the Its-It Chips-It flavor lower in calories than the classic vanilla? Answer: Yes, the Chips-It flavor typically has a slightly lower calorie count of 280 kcal compared to the classic vanilla's 320-340 kcal.
Question: How does the mini Its-It sandwich compare in calories to the standard size? Answer: Some mini versions, like the vanilla mini, are listed at 340 calories, which can be the same or even slightly higher per piece than the classic size, so it's important to check the label for serving size.
Question: How much sugar is in a standard Its-It ice cream sandwich? Answer: The sugar content ranges from approximately 17 to 21 grams per sandwich for the classic vanilla, depending on the source.
Question: Are Its-It ice cream sandwiches considered high in saturated fat? Answer: Yes, with a standard serving containing 10-12g of saturated fat, which is a high percentage of the daily value.
Question: How do the calories in an Its-It compare to a standard ice cream cone? Answer: An Its-It's calorie count (320-340 kcal) is generally higher than that of a single standard ice cream cone, which can vary widely but is often around 250 kcal or less.
Question: Is the nutritional information for all Its-It flavors the same? Answer: No, the nutritional information differs for each flavor, as shown in the comparison table above, so it is important to check the specific product for details.
Question: How can I burn off the calories from an Its-It? Answer: To burn off the calories from one Its-It, an individual would need to engage in a moderate-to-intense physical activity, such as a brisk walk or jog, for a sufficient duration.
