Health score
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/ 100Verdict: avoid
Maltesers receive an avoid verdict due to a low health score of 15/100, primarily driven by extremely high sugar and saturated fat content.
Key takeaways
- Contains 52g of sugar per 100g
- Features refined wheat flour as a primary ingredient
- Contains palm fat, which is high in saturated fats
- Low nutritional value with no significant fiber or protein
- High environmental impact score of 30/100
Our read on this product
With 52g of sugar per 100g, Maltesers contribute significantly to daily caloric intake without offering fiber or essential nutrients to modulate digestion. The presence of refined wheat flour, glucose syrup, and skimmed milk powder creates a product that promotes rapid blood glucose spikes and potential inflammation. Furthermore, the inclusion of palm fat adds to the 15g of saturated fat, impacting both cardiovascular health and environmental sustainability. Overall, the combination of high refined carbohydrate content and low nutrient density necessitates a cautious approach to consumption.
Best for
Maltesers are suitable for individuals seeking an occasional indulgent treat who have no specific dietary restrictions or metabolic health concerns.
Approach with care
Maltesers should be avoided by those with diabetes, insulin resistance, gluten sensitivities, or individuals managing inflammatory conditions like acne.
Ingredient breakdown
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Sugar
A refined carbohydrate used as a sweetener. High intake is associated with acne flare-ups and metabolic issues.
Skimmed Milk Powder
Dehydrated milk solids used for texture and flavor. Dairy consumption is widely linked to acne exacerbation in sensitive individuals.
Cocoa Butter
The natural fat extracted from cocoa beans. It is a stable fat but contributes significantly to the overall calorie and saturated fat content.
Glucose Syrup
A thick liquid sweetener derived from starch. Like refined sugar, it causes rapid blood glucose spikes.
Barley Malt Extract
Used for flavor and color, this provides the characteristic malt taste. It contains gluten.
Cocoa Mass
The base component of chocolate derived from cocoa beans. It provides antioxidants but is usually paired with high sugar levels in this product.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
505 kcal
Protein
8.1g
Carbs
62g
Fat
24.5g
Fiber
1.5g
Sugar
52g
Sodium
140mg
Saturated fat
15g
Fiber
1.5g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
The rapid sugar spike often leads to an subsequent energy crash, impacting mood stability.
Muscle Gain
The low protein-to-calorie ratio is ineffective for supporting muscle hypertrophy.
Weight Loss
High caloric density and sugar content make this poor for weight management.
Flu Recovery
Lacks the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary to support immune system recovery.
Fever Recovery
Does not provide the hydration or essential electrolytes needed for fever recovery.
Pcos Management
High sugar intake exacerbates insulin resistance, a core driver of PCOS symptoms.
Diabetes Management
High sugar and refined starch content cause dangerous blood glucose spikes.
Myth busters
Maltesers are a good source of fiber.
Refined wheat flour and malt extract provide negligible fiber content compared to whole grains.
Maltesers contain high amounts of sugar.
Sugar makes up 52g per 100g, accounting for over half the product weight.
Maltesers are a protein-rich snack.
With only 8.1g of protein per 100g, this is primarily a sugar and fat-based snack.
Frequently asked questions
Are Maltesers considered healthy?
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Maltesers are not considered healthy because they are ultra-processed and contain high levels of refined sugar and saturated fats.
What is the main nutritional concern with Maltesers?
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Maltesers present a major concern regarding their high glycemic index caused by 52g of sugar per 100g and refined wheat flour.
Does the Maltesers recipe contain gluten?
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Maltesers contain barley malt extract and wheat flour, meaning they are not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Is Maltesers a good snack for weight loss?
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Maltesers are not recommended for weight loss because they are calorie-dense and lack the fiber or protein necessary for sustained satiety.
What is a better alternative to Maltesers?
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Maltesers can be replaced by snacks like dark chocolate with higher cocoa content or raw nuts, which provide more stable energy and nutrients.