Co-op Strawberry Laces: A Nutritional Profile
For those curious about their favorite treats, understanding the nutritional content is key. Co-op's strawberry laces, a popular choice for many, have a clear calorie count that reflects their nature as a sugary confection. A typical 65g bag contains several portions, so it is important to check the serving size when considering intake.
Calories per 100g
The most useful metric for comparing different sweets is the energy content per 100g. The standard Co-op Strawberry Laces contain 339 calories per 100g. This places them firmly in the category of energy-dense foods, driven primarily by their high sugar and carbohydrate content. While this provides a high-energy boost, it is not a nutritionally balanced source of fuel.
Calories per Portion
Most people do not consume 100g of sweets in one go, so the portion-specific information is more relevant for daily tracking. According to Co-op's packaging, a serving size of 3 laces is approximately 13g and contains 44 calories. This is a manageable amount for a small treat, but it can be easy to go over this single serving if you are not careful.
Understanding the Macronutrients
The calorie count for Co-op strawberry laces is a result of their specific macronutrient composition, which is heavily skewed towards carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates and Sugar Content
The dominant macronutrient in these laces is carbohydrates, which are broken down in the search data. Specifically, there are 73g of carbohydrates per 100g, with 47g of that being pure sugars. This high sugar load is what provides the sweet flavor and quick energy but also contributes to potential negative health effects if consumed excessively.
Fat and Protein Levels
In contrast to the high carb and sugar content, the fat and protein levels are very low. The laces contain only 2.5g of fat (1.4g saturates) and 3.4g of protein per 100g. The low fat content is typical for many gelatine-free and vegan-friendly sweets, which rely on starches and sugars for texture and energy rather than fats.
Are Co-op Strawberry Laces Vegan?
One important point for those following a plant-based diet is whether this specific product is vegan. The standard Co-op Strawberry Laces are indeed suitable for vegans, as their ingredients do not contain any animal products. However, it is crucial to read the label carefully, as product formulations can change. The fizzy version, Co-op Fizzy Strawberry Lances, is listed as having been produced on a line that also handles beeswax and may not be suitable for vegans. This highlights the need to check specific products, especially if there are multiple variations.
Comparing Co-op Strawberry Laces with Other Sweets
To put the calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison table showing the nutritional value of Co-op strawberry laces against some other sweet treats.
| Product | Calories per 100g | Carbs per 100g | Sugars per 100g |
|---|---|---|---|
| Co-op Strawberry Laces | 339 kcal | 73 g | 47 g |
| Co-op Fizzy Strawberry Lances | 346 kcal | 77 g | 54 g |
| Average Marshmallows | 327 kcal | 83.1 g | - |
| Average Sugar | 398 kcal | 100 g | 100 g |
| Tesco Strawberry Laces | 339 kcal | 72.7 g | 46.5 g |
This comparison shows that standard strawberry laces have a calorie count similar to other types of gummy and marshmallow-based sweets. The fizzy version, with its added sugar coating, has a slightly higher calorie and sugar count. All these products are calorie-dense and should be enjoyed in moderation.
How to Enjoy Sweets Mindfully
If you enjoy sweet treats like strawberry laces, mindful consumption can help you balance your diet.
- Read Labels: Always check the back of the package for the most up-to-date nutritional information, especially regarding allergens and dietary suitability.
- Portion Control: Rather than eating directly from the bag, serve yourself a small, pre-determined portion to avoid overconsumption.
- Balance Your Diet: Offset sugary snacks with nutrient-rich whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to ensure you meet your daily nutritional requirements. Sweets should complement, not replace, these core food groups.
- Active Lifestyle: Pair occasional treats with a healthy, active lifestyle to help manage overall calorie intake. Physical activity is a key component of a balanced life. To learn more about balancing treats with a healthy diet, you can find resources on nutrition and moderation.
Conclusion
In summary, Co-op strawberry laces contain 339 calories per 100g, with a single 13g portion having 44 calories. They are a high-carbohydrate, high-sugar snack with minimal fat and protein. While the standard version is vegan, the fizzy variety has a cross-contamination warning and is not suitable for vegans. As with all sugary sweets, they are best enjoyed as an occasional treat in a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the ingredients in Co-op strawberry laces? The ingredients include sugar, glucose-fructose syrup, wheat flour, and fruit concentrates. For a full list, always check the product packaging.
- How many calories are in one single lace? A standard serving size is 3 laces, which is approximately 13g and contains 44 calories. This means a single lace is around 14.7 calories.
- Do Co-op fizzy strawberry lances have more calories? Yes, Co-op Fizzy Strawberry Lances contain slightly more calories, with 346kcal per 100g compared to the 339kcal of the standard version.
- Are these laces suitable for a vegan diet? The standard Co-op Strawberry Laces are suitable for vegans, but the Fizzy Strawberry Lances are produced on a line that handles beeswax and are therefore not considered vegan.
- Are strawberry laces high in sugar? Yes, strawberry laces are high in sugar. The standard Co-op laces contain 47g of sugar per 100g, making up a significant portion of their calorie content.
- Can children eat Co-op strawberry laces? The product is a confectionery and can be enjoyed by children as an occasional treat. However, due to the high sugar content, Co-op recommends limiting intake for younger children.
- How do Co-op strawberry laces compare to Tesco's version? Based on available information, Tesco's strawberry laces have a very similar nutritional profile, with 339kcal per 100g and similar macronutrient content.
- Is palm oil used in Co-op strawberry laces? Yes, palm oil is listed as an ingredient in Co-op's laces. The Co-op is committed to sourcing sustainable palm oil.
Key Takeaways
Calorie Count: A 13g serving (3 laces) of Co-op strawberry laces contains 44 calories, while the value per 100g is 339 calories. Macronutrient Profile: The laces are predominantly made up of carbohydrates and sugar, with very low levels of fat and protein. High Sugar Content: With 47g of sugar per 100g, these sweets offer a quick energy hit but are not a nutritionally balanced food. Vegan Status: The standard Co-op Strawberry Laces are suitable for vegans, but the fizzy variety is not due to manufacturing processes. Comparison: Compared to other similar sweets, the calorie and sugar content is generally on par with other high-sugar confectionery.
