Polaner Sugar Free jelly is a popular low-calorie jelly option made by Polaner. It contains no sugar and is sweetened instead with sugar substitutes like sucralose and stevia. Many people choose sugar free jellies like Polaner as a way to enjoy the flavor of jelly without all the sugar and calories. But is it really a healthy option? There are some important factors to consider when evaluating the health profile of Polaner Sugar Free jelly.
Calorie and sugar content
One of the main benefits of Polaner Sugar Free jelly is that it is very low in calories and sugar compared to regular jellies. A typical serving (2 tablespoons) contains just 10 calories and 0g of sugar. Meanwhile, standard jellies contain around 50 calories and 12g of sugar per serving. So by choosing the sugar free version, you remove virtually all of the calories and sugar that come from high-fructose corn syrup and cane sugar. This makes it a good option for people watching their calorie intake or limiting sugar for health reasons like diabetes. The lack of sugar also means the jelly has a very low glycemic index, meaning it shouldn’t spike your blood sugar.
Sugar substitutes
While Polaner Sugar Free jelly doesn’t contain any real sugar, it does use artificial sweeteners to provide sweetness. The main sugar substitutes used are sucralose and stevia leaf extract. Sucralose is an intensely sweet artificial sweetener made from sugar but chemically modified. Stevia comes from the leaves of the stevia plant and is estimated to be 200-300 times sweeter than sugar. Both sucralose and stevia are considered safe by health authorities. They pass through the body undigested so they don’t provide any calories or spike blood sugar. Using sugar substitutes allows people to get the sweet taste they crave without negative health effects of real sugar.
Fiber and fullness
One downside of Polaner Sugar Free jelly compared to regular jelly is that it lacks the fiber and protein found in real fruit jellies. The sugar free version is made with gelatin, water, and flavorings rather than actual fruit. This gives it a lighter, more delicate texture, but also means it lacks nutritional benefits. The lack of protein and fiber means sugar free jelly isn’t very filling compared to real fruit spreads. You may feel hungry faster after eating it. If you want more nutrition, you could consider pairing it with peanut butter or eating it with whole grain toast to increase the fiber content.
Gelatin content
Polaner Sugar Free Jelly is made using gelatin, which gives the jelly its wobbly, bouncy texture. Gelatin is obtained from collagen, which comes from the bones and skin of pigs and cows. Some people avoid gelatin-containing products for religious or cultural reasons. Gelatin is also avoided by vegetarians and vegans. If you don’t eat gelatin, Polaner makes a line of vegetarian fruit spreads sweetened with fruit juice. These provide a similar taste and texture without using gelatin.
Vitamins and minerals
Unlike jellies made with real fruit, Polaner Sugar Free jelly lacks vitamins and minerals. Real fruit jellies provide small amounts of vitamins like vitamin C and minerals like potassium from the fruit. But the sugar free version contains no nutrients – it’s just sweet flavoring. This isn’t a big concern if you eat it in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet. But it’s something to consider if you rely on jelly as source of vitamins. You may want to opt for a product that contains both sugar substitutes and real fruit spread to get the best of both worlds.
Taste and texture
How does the taste and texture of Polaner Sugar Free jelly compare to more natural options? Reviews are somewhat mixed. Some people find the artificial sweeteners provide an unpleasant aftertaste. Others feel the texture is a bit too firm and wobbly compared to real fruit spreads. However, most agree the flavor is very close to regular jelly, providing a nice fruity sweetness. Whether you’ll enjoy the taste is a personal preference. Some don’t mind the differences while others strongly prefer all-natural jams with no artificial ingredients.
Cost comparison
One advantage of Polaner Sugar Free jelly is that it’s fairly affordable, often costing less than natural fruit spreads. An 18 ounce jar of Polaner sugar free jelly retails for around $5. This compares to $6-8 for similar sized jars of all-natural jam. However, watch out for sales – natural brands like Crofters go on promotion periodically so can be snagged for less. Sugar free jelly also has the advantage of lasting longer since sugar acts as a preservative in regular jams. So while the upfront cost may be lower for sugar free, you may waste less of natural jams by finishing the jar quicker.
Sugar free vs. low sugar jellies
Besides regular jellies and sugar free alternatives like Polaner, some brands make low sugar fruit spreads. These are sweetened using a blend of sugar and sugar substitutes. For example, Crofter’s Organic Low Sugar Jam contains both organic cane sugar and stevia leaf extract. This provides a balance – you get some sweetness from real sugar balanced out by stevia so total sugar is reduced. Low sugar jams have similar calories and carbs to regular jam, but less sugar. This may appeal to those who want some real sugar but also need to limit their intake.
Potential concerns with frequent consumption
Polaner Sugar Free Jelly is likely fine in small amounts as part of an overall healthy diet. However, regularly consuming foods made with artificial sweeteners may have some downsides:
– Tricking your brain – Artificial sweeteners activate your sweet taste receptors and pleasure centers in the brain, but your body doesn’t get actual calories. Some think this could increase cravings for sweet foods and lead to overeating.
– Gut health – Some studies show frequent consumption of artificial sweeteners may disrupt healthy gut bacteria. This can potentially damage your overall digestive health.
– Interfering with appetite signals – Animal studies suggest artificial sweeteners impair the brain’s ability to properly regulate appetite based on caloric intake. More research is needed to confirm this effect in humans.
Moderation is key – having the occasional serving of sugar free jelly likely poses little risk for otherwise healthy adults and kids. But downing artificially flavored jello every day may be better avoided.
Best uses for sugar free jelly
So when can Polaner Sugar Free jelly be a healthy part of your diet? Here are some of the best ways to work it in:
– An occasional treat – Enjoy a small serving a couple times per week for a sweet fix without excess calories or sugar.
– On a reduced calorie diet – The lack of sugar makes it a great way to get flavor without adding extra calories if you’re cutting back.
– With peanut butter – Pair it with protein-rich peanut or almond butter for a more filling snack.
– Mixed into yogurt or oatmeal – Adds light sweetness and flavor to plain nonfat yogurt or oats.
– As a dessert topping – Spoon a bit over fresh fruit for an easy dessert.
– For decorating – Dice it up to decorate cakes and cupcakes instead of icing.
Healthiest jellies
If you want to maximize nutrition, choose jellies with these healthy characteristics:
– Made with real fruit – Look for varieties that use actual fruit rather than just flavorings. This provides more fiber and nutrients.
– Less or no added sugar – Jams labeled no sugar added, low sugar, or lightly sweetened are ideal.
– Uses sugar alternatives – If you need to avoid sugar, choose versions made with stevia or sucralose.
– Organic – Organic jellies are made without pesticides and artificial ingredients.
– Small portion sizes – Purchase individual squeeze packs or mini jars to control portions.
Some healthy recommended brands include Crofter’s Organic, Trader Joe’s Just Fruit Spread, Polaner All Fruit, and Smucker’s Low Sugar. Compare brands and select one catering to your dietary needs and preferences.
Risks and warnings
While sugar free jelly has benefits, there are also some warnings to consider:
– Choking risk – The firm, rubbery texture poses a choking risk for young children. Whole grapes are similarly risky.
– Allergies – Contains common allergens like gelatin (from the bones/skin of cows and pigs). Avoid if you have food allergies.
– Laxative effect – Some sugar alcohols like sorbitol can have a laxative effect if over-consumed, though this is not a concern with stevia or sucralose.
– Migraines – Aspartame has been linked to headaches in some people. Sucralose may be a better choice if you’re prone to migraines.
– Dental health – Sticky gelled textures can get stuck on teeth. Brush after eating to avoid tooth decay issues.
– Diarrhea or nausea – Some people report minor GI upset, especially when overeating sugar-free foods. Reduce intake if this occurs.
– Drug interactions – Sucralose absorption may be affected by medications. Check with your doctor about potential interactions.
Consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns about including sugar free jelly in your own diet or your child’s diet. Discontinue use if any adverse effects occur. Moderation and proper dental hygiene help reduce potential risks when consuming any sweetened jellies.
Recipes with sugar free jelly
Here are some tasty ways to use Polaner Sugar Free Jelly in recipes:
Simple jelly parfaits
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
– 1⁄2 cup Polaner sugar free jelly, diced
– 1⁄4 cup sliced strawberries
– 2 tbsp chopped nuts
Directions:
1. In a bowl or jar, layer yogurt, jelly cubes, strawberries, and nuts.
2. Repeat layers until filled. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.
Fruity jelly cubes
Ingredients:
– 1 (3 oz) box Polaner sugar free jelly (any flavor)
– 1 cup mixed fresh fruit like grapes, berries, mango, etc.
Directions:
1. Make jelly according to package directions. Pour into a small rimmed baking sheet.
2. Refrigerate 2-3 hours until completely set. Remove and dice into cubes.
3. Toss jelly cubes with fresh fruit. Serve as a light, fruity salad.
Hidden veggie jelly cookies
Ingredients:
– 1⁄2 cup pumpkin or applesauce
– 1⁄4 cup Polaner sugar free grape jelly
– 1 cup oats
– 1⁄2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1⁄4 cup chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini
– 1⁄4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, stir together the pumpkin, jelly, oats, flour, and baking powder until a dough forms. Fold in veggies and chocolate chips.
3. Scoop tablespoon sized balls of dough onto prepared pan. Bake 15 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Is it Keto friendly?
The ketogenic or “keto” diet involves eating very low carbohydrate, high fat meals to reach a state of ketosis for weight loss or health benefits. Is Polaner’s sugar free jelly allowed on keto?
The answer is yes – Polaner Sugar Free jelly can fit into a keto eating plan because it contains zero net carbs and sugar. A 2 tablespoon serving provides just:
– 10 calories
– 0g net carbs
– 0g sugar
This fits the guidelines of keto diets limiting carbs to only 20-50g daily. And with no actual sugar, this jelly won’t impact blood sugar or disrupt ketosis like some fruits and starchy foods might.
A small amount of Polaner Sugar Free jelly can satisfy a sweet craving and provide flavor to keto-friendly foods like:
– Plain Greek yogurt
– Cottage cheese
– Nut butters
– Mixed into chia pudding
– Topping for keto cheesecake
– Pair with nuts for a snack
– Dipping sauce for pork rinds
The biggest watch out is portion size. While the jelly has no carbs or calories, it’s easy to overeat. Stick to about 2 tbsp at a time for a sweet treat within your carb limit.
So in moderation, this jelly can be included on a ketogenic diet. Just account for the artificial sweeteners and lack of protein. Opt for low carb jams with some fibre instead when possible.
Conclusion
Polaner Sugar Free Jelly can be a healthier choice compared to regular high-sugar jelly. It provides the sweet taste people love without all the sugar and calories. This makes it a smart option for those managing diabetes, obesity, or other health conditions. Using sugar substitutes gives a close approximation of the desired sweet flavor.
However, the lack of protein and fiber compared to real fruit jelly is a nutritional downside. Moderation is key with any item utilizing artificial sweeteners. Small amounts are likely safe for most people, but overdoing it on a regular basis may have unintended effects.
Check the ingredient list and select jellies without any questionable additives. Pair jelly with high fiber and protein foods to make it a more balanced snack. Account for the lesser nutritional value, choking hazard for kids, and potential laxative effect.
Within these guidelines, an occasional serving of Polaner Sugar Free jelly can be a safe way to add sweetness to your diet without excess sugar or carbohydrates. Follow basic dental hygiene practices and be mindful of how your body responds. Consult your doctor with any concerns about incorporating sugar free foods.
