Essential Everyday Strawberry Pie Filling

The barcode 0041303105450 is associated with a product labeled "Essential Everyday Strawberry Pie Filling" by Essential Brand. Below is a detailed breakdown based on available data:

Product Overview

• Brand: Essential (a subsidiary of Conagra Brands, a major U.S. food manufacturer).
• Product Type: Frozen pie filling (strawberry-flavored).
• Form: Ready-to-use filling for pies, tarts, or desserts. Typically requires baking or mixing with a crust.
• Serving Size: Usually 1 cup (240g) per serving (varies by recipe).
• Key Ingredients (common for this product, though exact formulations may vary by batch or region):
  • Strawberry puree/concentrate (primary flavor source).
  • Sugar (often high-fructose corn syrup or cane sugar).
  • Pectin (thickening agent).
  • Citric acid (preservative/flavor enhancer).
  • Natural flavors, salt, and water.
  • Preservatives: May contain sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate (to extend shelf life).
  • Artificial colors: Sometimes includes Red 40 (Allura Red) or other dyes for vibrant color.
  • Allergen Warning: Typically contains no major allergens, but may be processed in facilities with milk, soy, or wheat.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving, Approximate)

(Exact values may vary; check the product label for precise data.)

• Calories: ~120–150 kcal.
• Total Carbohydrates: ~28–32g (mostly sugars).
  • Sugars: ~25–28g (natural and added).
• Fat: ~0.5g (mostly from minimal additives).
• Protein: ~0.5g.
• Fiber: ~0g (refined sugar and pectin do not contribute fiber).
• Sodium: ~5–10mg (low, but check for added salt in recipes).

Health Considerations:

1. High Sugar Content: The primary ingredient is sugar, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes, dental issues, and metabolic concerns if consumed excessively. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to 25g/day for women and 36g/day for men.
2. Artificial Additives:
   • Sodium benzoate/potassium sorbate: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but some studies link high intake to potential health risks (e.g., hyperactivity in children or oxidative stress). The FDA allows these in small amounts.
   • Red 40 (Allura Red): An artificial dye with mixed reviews; some research suggests potential hyperactivity effects in children (though the FDA considers it safe at current levels).
3. No Fiber or Protein: The product lacks nutritional density beyond calories and sugar. It’s best used as a treat or occasional ingredient rather than a staple.
4. Preservative Concerns: While preservatives extend shelf life, some consumers prefer minimal-additive products. Organic or "no preservatives" alternatives exist but may differ in texture/flavor.