Although its packaging can lead to confusion, this version of gelatin yes it contains added sugar. They are not large quantities, but it is something to keep in mind when we introduce this dessert into our daily diet.
Ingredients and nutritional value
The red fruit-flavored protein jelly is the only protein version available at Mercadona. Specifically, this dessert is made up of «water, juice of various frExtracts from concentrate, hydrolyzed collagen protein (4.6%), fructose, gelatin (2.2%), acidity regulators (citric acid and sodium citrates), red fruit aroma, natural colors (carmines and anthocyanins) and sweeteners (sucralose and acesulfame K)«.
As for nutritional values, for each 100-gram portion (one container) it provides:
- Energy: 39 calories
- Fat: 0 grams
- Saturated fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3.8 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
- Salt: 0.1 grams
As most of its content is water, it provides very few calories. In addition, the protein intake is increased by the addition of hydrolyzed collagen. This makes it a very low-calorie, high-protein dessert. If we had two servings, we would be consuming 78 calories and 12 grams of protein. This is much more than any low-fat dairy can provide.
The sugars it contains come from the concentrated juice of various fruits and from fructose. It is not the best version of fruit juices, but it is the most used in processed products. That is why a high intake of this gelatin is not recommended either.
Besides, not suitable for vegans since gelatin is of animal origin. Perhaps in the future they will opt for a version with agar-agar.
Gelatin + protein or gelatin 0% sugar?
Two of Mercadona’s biggest competitors are gelatin with protein and the version without added sugars. Although the first one does contain sugar in its ingredients, the second one has very little nutritional value.
Specifically, it provides 38 calories, 0.7 grams of carbohydrates and 1.6 grams of protein. In this case, the 0% gelatin could be consumed as a cravings remover, but no nutrient would be used. However, the + Protein version provides 6 grams of protein, which is a fundamental macronutrient in the body, and which also provides satiety.
If we had to decide between the two, the best option is gelatin with protein. Calories are practically the same, but it can help us reach daily nutritional values that help with training, weight loss or muscle volume. However, it is not recommended to consume in excess without taking into account the amount of added sugars. We hope that in the future it can be tasted with natural sweeteners.