Great Value Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich Calories and Nutrition
For many consumers, an ice cream sandwich is a classic, simple treat. The Great Value brand, sold exclusively at Walmart, offers an affordable and accessible option. When it comes to managing a diet, understanding the specific caloric and nutritional breakdown of your snacks is crucial. The primary factor influencing the total calories is the product variant, with the regular vanilla offering and the 'No Sugar Added, Vanilla' alternative having different profiles.
The Standard Great Value Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich
For the standard Great Value Vanilla Flavored Ice Cream Sandwich, the calorie count is 160 per serving. This product is an excellent example of reading a nutrition label correctly, as the serving size is listed as a single sandwich. This portion contains not only calories but also other macronutrients that contribute to the total energy value.
Here is a typical breakdown of the nutritional information for one standard sandwich:
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 12 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 105 mg
The 'No Sugar Added' Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich
For those watching their sugar intake, Great Value offers a specific 'No Sugar Added' version that significantly alters the nutritional composition, particularly the calories.
Here is the nutritional profile for one 'No Sugar Added, Vanilla' ice cream sandwich:
- Calories: 110
- Fats: 2 g
- Saturated Fats: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Net Carbs: 23 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
As you can see, opting for the 'No Sugar Added' version provides a notable reduction in calories and fat content.
Comparison of Great Value Ice Cream Sandwiches
To better understand the differences, here is a comparison table highlighting the two most common vanilla-flavored ice cream sandwiches from Great Value.
| Nutrient | Regular Vanilla Sandwich | No Sugar Added Vanilla Sandwich |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 160 | 110 |
| Total Fat | 6g | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 1g |
| Total Carbs | 25g | 26g |
| Sugars | 12g | 3g |
| Protein | 2g | 3g |
| Sodium | 105mg | 140mg |
Considerations When Choosing Your Treat
When evaluating these options, consider your dietary goals. The regular sandwich offers a classic taste with a moderate calorie count. The 'No Sugar Added' version provides a lower-calorie and lower-fat choice, though it does contain a slightly higher sodium content. Always remember to check the specific packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as formulas can change.
Healthier Alternatives to an Ice Cream Sandwich
For those seeking lower-calorie or more nutritious dessert options, several alternatives to the Great Value vanilla ice cream sandwich exist. These can satisfy a sweet tooth without compromising health goals.
- Frozen Banana Ice Cream Sandwiches: A simple, homemade option involves freezing banana slices and blending them with a flavor of your choice. You can then sandwich this mixture between two thin cookies for a naturally sweet treat with a lower calorie count.
- Light Ice Cream Sandwiches: Many brands, including some from Great Value and alternatives like Weight Watchers, offer lighter versions of ice cream sandwiches. These often use low-fat ice cream and are designed for calorie-conscious consumers. Be sure to compare the nutritional labels to find the one that best fits your needs.
- Yogurt Bark: This DIY dessert involves spreading Greek yogurt (or a yogurt of your choice) onto a baking sheet and topping it with fresh fruit and a sprinkle of nuts. Once frozen, you can break it into bark-like pieces for a refreshing, protein-rich dessert.
- DIY Cookie Sandwiches with Low-Fat Ice Cream: By baking your own cookies and using a light, store-bought ice cream, you have more control over ingredients and portion sizes. Use small, thin cookies to control the overall calories.
- Homemade Sorbet or Popsicles: Making your own frozen fruit bars or sorbet is a great way to control sugar and calorie intake. Use whole fruits and a minimal amount of sweetener for a naturally delicious and healthy option.
The Importance of Label Reading
Understanding and comparing food labels is an essential skill for managing your diet effectively. Key areas to focus on include serving size, calories, saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. The % Daily Value (%DV) can help determine if a serving is high or low in a specific nutrient; 5% DV or less is considered low, while 20% DV or more is considered high. By examining the labels of different frozen treats, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health and wellness goals. The FDA provides excellent resources on how to navigate these labels accurately.
Conclusion
To answer the question, a standard Great Value vanilla ice cream sandwich contains 160 calories. For a lower-calorie option, the 'No Sugar Added' variant offers 110 calories per serving. The specific nutritional profile can vary depending on the product, emphasizing the importance of checking the label. For those looking for even healthier or homemade alternatives, a variety of options exist, from fruit-based desserts to DIY low-fat sandwiches. Ultimately, knowing the facts empowers you to make informed choices about your treats while maintaining your dietary preferences.
