Tillamook Oregon Strawberry Ice Cream: The Sugar Breakdown
When you scoop into a container of Tillamook Oregon Strawberry Ice Cream, you're not just getting cream and milk, but also a significant amount of sugar. Based on the nutrition label available on the Tillamook website, a standard 2/3-cup serving (95g) of their Oregon Strawberry ice cream contains 24 grams of total sugar. Of this amount, 19 grams are listed as "added sugars," representing a substantial portion of the total sweetness.
Deconstructing the Sugar Content
The total sugar content in Tillamook's ice cream is composed of two main sources: naturally occurring sugars and added sugars. The 24 grams of total sugar includes sugars that are naturally present in the dairy ingredients (lactose from milk) and the strawberries, as well as those deliberately added during the manufacturing process.
- Naturally Occurring Sugars: Milk naturally contains a sugar called lactose. Ripe strawberries also contribute their own natural fructose and glucose. These account for some of the overall sugar content.
- Added Sugars: The ingredients list for Tillamook Oregon Strawberry Ice Cream explicitly names “Sugar” as a key component, in addition to the strawberry base which also contains sugar. The 19 grams of added sugar per serving indicates that the bulk of the sweetness comes from these additional sweeteners.
Lists of Ingredients and Their Role
The sweetness of Tillamook's ice cream is a result of several ingredients working together. Here is a look at the key components and how they contribute:
- Cream and Skim Milk: These dairy ingredients provide the base and contain naturally occurring lactose.
- Sugar: This is the primary source of added sweetness in the recipe.
- Strawberries and Strawberry Base: While strawberries contain natural fruit sugars, Tillamook's strawberry base itself lists sugar as an ingredient, further contributing to the total sugar count.
- Pasteurized Egg Yolks: These add richness and texture but do not significantly contribute to the sugar content.
- Stabilizers and Thickeners: Ingredients like tara gum, guar gum, and pectin are used for texture and do not contain sugar.
Comparing Tillamook Strawberry to Other Flavors
It can be helpful to see how the sugar content of the Oregon Strawberry flavor stacks up against other Tillamook offerings. For comparison, here is a table highlighting the nutritional differences per a 2/3 cup serving size.
| Feature | Oregon Strawberry Ice Cream | French Vanilla Ice Cream | Chocolate Ice Cream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 2/3 cup (95g) | 2/3 cup | 2/3 cup |
| Total Sugars | 24g | 24g | 21g |
| Added Sugars | 19g | 19g | 16g |
| Calories | 200 | 230 | 220 |
| Total Fat | 10g | 12g | 13g |
As the table shows, the Oregon Strawberry has a total sugar and added sugar content identical to the French Vanilla, while having slightly more than the classic Chocolate flavor. This comparison demonstrates that the sugar levels are fairly consistent across many of Tillamook's standard flavors.
Recommended Daily Sugar Intake
For context, the American Heart Association recommends limiting daily added sugar intake to no more than 36 grams for most men and 25 grams for most women. With 19 grams of added sugar in a single 2/3-cup serving of Tillamook Strawberry Ice Cream, one serving accounts for a significant portion of the recommended daily limit. For women, it's roughly 76% of their daily recommended maximum, and for men, it's about 53%.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions
Ultimately, understanding the sugar content is crucial for those monitoring their dietary intake. Tillamook Oregon Strawberry Ice Cream is a rich and decadent treat, and its sugar levels are consistent with premium ice cream products. While delicious, the 24 grams of total sugar and 19 grams of added sugar per serving highlight that this should be enjoyed as an occasional dessert rather than a daily indulgence. By being aware of these nutritional facts, you can make a more informed decision that aligns with your health goals.
For more detailed nutritional information, including ingredients and allergens, you can always visit the official Tillamook product page.
Alternatives to High-Sugar Ice Cream
For those looking to reduce their sugar intake without giving up dessert entirely, several alternatives exist:
- Frozen Yogurt: Often lower in fat and sugar than traditional ice cream, though content can vary widely by brand.
- Sorbets: Made from fruit and sugar, but are dairy-free. Always check the label, as some can still be very high in sugar.
- Homemade Fruit Sorbets or 'Nice Cream': These can be made with minimal added sugar, or just with naturally sweet fruit like bananas.
- Sugar-Free Ice Creams: Many brands offer versions sweetened with sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners, but these can sometimes cause digestive issues.
By exploring these options, you can still enjoy a cold treat while keeping a closer eye on your sugar consumption.
