For many, the appeal of Outshine popsicles lies in their marketing as a "healthier" option. The company emphasizes using real fruit, omitting high fructose corn syrup, and avoiding artificial colors and flavors in most varieties. However, a closer look at the nutritional details is necessary to determine their true impact on your diet. The reality is more nuanced than the simple "healthy snack" label. This article will break down the ingredients, compare different varieties, and explore why they might not be as healthy as fresh fruit.
The Sugar Story: Cane Sugar vs. Artificial Sweeteners
The healthfulness of an Outshine popsicle largely hinges on its sugar content and the type of sweetener used. The brand offers two main types of products in this regard: standard bars with added cane sugar and "No Sugar Added" bars with artificial sweeteners.
Standard Bars (with Added Cane Sugar)
Many standard Outshine bars contain cane sugar as a primary ingredient. While cane sugar is an added sugar, a single bar can still contain a notable amount, with some flavors having up to 17 grams of sugar, including 12 grams of added sugar. Excessive added sugar intake is linked to various health risks. While a single popsicle occasionally is fine, regular consumption can add up.
"No Sugar Added" Bars (with Artificial Sweeteners)
The "No Sugar Added" varieties use sugar alcohols like sorbitol and artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium. These can potentially cause digestive issues like gas, bloating, and diarrhea, especially with excessive consumption. Some research also suggests artificial sweeteners might impact the gut microbiome and potentially increase sugar cravings.
The Problem with Processed Fruit and Additives
Outshine bars are made with real fruit and juice, but they often use fruit juice concentrate. This concentrate is processed, removing water and fiber, resulting in a product higher in fructose and lacking the fiber of whole fruit. Thickeners and stabilizers like guar gum and xanthan gum are also included, which, while generally safe, can cause digestive issues for some people.
A Comparison: Outshine vs. The Healthier Alternatives
| Feature | Standard Outshine Popsicle | "No Sugar Added" Outshine Popsicle | Whole Fresh Fruit | Homemade Fruit Popsicle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar | Contains added cane sugar, sometimes in high amounts. | No added sugar, but contains sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners. | Naturally occurring fruit sugar and fiber. | Depends on recipe; can be sweetened naturally with minimal added sugar. |
| Fiber Content | Minimal to no fiber due to use of fruit juice concentrate. | Minimal fiber. | High in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. | High in fiber if made with whole fruit puree. |
| Ingredients | Real fruit or juice, cane sugar, thickeners, and flavorings. | Real fruit or juice, artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, thickeners. | Single, natural ingredient without additives. | Pureed fresh fruit, water, and optional additions like yogurt or honey. |
| Processing Level | Moderately processed. | Moderately processed. | Unprocessed, whole food. | Minimally processed and controlled by you. |
| Vitamins | Provides some Vitamin C. | Provides Vitamin C. | Provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. | Preserves more vitamins by avoiding heavy processing. |
Making a Smarter Snack Choice
Outshine popsicles can be a better option than some sugary desserts, but they don't replace fresh fruit. To make informed choices:
- Read Labels: Check for added sugars and artificial sweeteners, even with claims of "real fruit".
- Consider Homemade: Making your own popsicles with fresh fruit, water, or yogurt gives you control over ingredients, maximizing fiber and avoiding excess sugar.
- Practice Moderation: If you enjoy Outshine, have it occasionally rather than daily to limit added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Conclusion
So, how unhealthy are Outshine popsicles? They are not entirely unhealthy but are more processed than they might appear. Standard bars contain added sugar, and "No Sugar Added" versions use artificial sweeteners with potential downsides. Both lack the fiber of whole fruit. As an occasional treat, they can be a reasonable choice compared to other desserts. However, for the best nutritional benefits, fresh fruit or homemade alternatives are superior. Be mindful of ingredients and your dietary goals when deciding if Outshine fits your diet.
The True Cost of Convenience: A Closer Look at Fruit Concentrates
Outshine popsicles use fruit juice concentrates, which are less nutritionally dense than whole fruit because water and fiber are removed, leaving concentrated sugar. This can lead to a quicker blood sugar spike compared to the slower absorption of sugar in whole fruit. This is especially important for those managing blood sugar or weight.
The Lack of Transparency in "Natural Flavors"
While Outshine avoids artificial flavors, the term "natural flavors" can still represent complex mixtures with undisclosed components. This lack of transparency differs from the clear composition of whole foods.
Making Informed Decisions at the Freezer Aisle
When choosing a frozen treat, it's helpful to consider the processing and ingredients. While Outshine might seem better than some other desserts, healthier options like whole fruit or homemade popsicles offer more nutrients and less processing. Balancing convenience with nutritional value is key.
Conclusion
When you ask how unhealthy are Outshine popsicles?, the answer is they are not a terrible choice but are not a health food. The use of added sugars, processed juice concentrates, and artificial sweeteners means they should be consumed in moderation. They are better than many other frozen desserts but don't provide the nutritional benefits of fresh fruit. A balanced approach involves mindful eating and understanding that moderation applies to any processed treat, regardless of marketing.
