Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Bird's Original Custard Powder receives a health score of 45/100 primarily due to its lack of significant nutritional value and reliance on highly refined starches.
Key takeaways
- Provides 353 kcal per 100g
- Contains less than 1g of protein
- Composed primarily of refined maize starch
- Low environmental footprint during production
- Contains artificial flavourings for taste
Our read on this product
The product is composed almost entirely of maize starch, which serves as a refined carbohydrate source. With only 0.5g of protein and negligible fat per 100g, Bird's Original Custard Powder provides calories without satiety or essential nutrients. The inclusion of flavouring and Annatto colouring is typical for processed thickeners, though these ingredients offer no functional health benefit. While the environmental impact is relatively low due to the product's dry nature and long shelf life, the nutritional profile is limited. Consumers should view this as a culinary tool rather than a source of nourishment.
Best for
Bird's Original Custard Powder is for individuals who prioritize culinary texture and traditional preparation in home-cooked desserts.
Approach with care
Those managing blood sugar levels or seeking high-protein snacks should avoid this product as it provides empty calories from refined starches.
Ingredient breakdown
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Maize Starch
A refined carbohydrate derived from corn, used as a thickening agent to provide the creamy texture of custard. It provides energy but lacks significant vitamins or minerals.
Salt
Used as a flavor enhancer to balance the sweetness of the prepared custard. Excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure.
Flavouring
Added to mimic the taste of vanilla or classic custard. These are often synthetic compounds and provide no nutritional benefit.
Colour (Annatto)
A natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, giving the custard its iconic yellow color. It is generally considered safe but may cause rare allergic reactions.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
353 kcal
Protein
0.5g
Carbs
86g
Fat
0.5g
Fiber
1g
Sugar
0.5g
Sodium
0.2mg
Saturated fat
0.1g
Fiber
1g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
While the comforting texture may provide psychological satisfaction, it offers no nutritional support for stable brain chemistry.
Muscle Gain
With only 0.5g of protein per 100g, it provides no meaningful support for muscle protein synthesis.
Weight Loss
The high caloric density from refined starches makes it less ideal for weight management compared to whole foods.
Flu Recovery
It does not provide the immune-supporting antioxidants or vitamins required to fight viral infections effectively.
Fever Recovery
The texture is easy to swallow, but the product lacks the electrolytes and vitamins needed for active recovery.
Pcos Management
High glycemic loads from refined starches may exacerbate insulin resistance often associated with PCOS.
Diabetes Management
Refined starch can cause rapid blood glucose elevation, making it difficult to manage insulin spikes.
Myth busters
Bird's Original Custard Powder is a good source of protein
With only 0.5g of protein per 100g, it provides negligible nutritional value for muscle maintenance.
Bird's Original Custard Powder contains natural colouring
The product uses Annatto, a natural pigment derived from the seeds of the achiote tree.
Bird's Original Custard Powder is high in sugar
The dry powder contains only 0.5g of sugar per 100g, though added sugar in preparation increases levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bird's Original Custard Powder healthy?
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Bird's Original Custard Powder is not considered a healthy food choice because it consists mainly of refined starch with almost no vitamins, minerals, or fiber.
What is the main nutritional concern with Bird's Original Custard Powder?
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Bird's Original Custard Powder poses a nutritional concern due to its high calorie density from refined carbohydrates and total lack of essential micronutrients.
What is the key ingredient in Bird's Original Custard Powder?
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Bird's Original Custard Powder relies on maize starch as its primary ingredient to create a thick, creamy consistency when cooked with milk.
Is Bird's Original Custard Powder suitable for a keto diet?
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Bird's Original Custard Powder is not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet because it is made of refined starches that impact blood glucose levels.
Is there a better alternative to Bird's Original Custard Powder?
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Bird's Original Custard Powder can be replaced by healthier thickeners like arrowroot powder or homemade custard made with egg yolks for added protein and nutrients.