Pie

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Pie scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Modified Fats (Non-Hydrogenated Animal Shortening (Beef Fat)): Hydrogenation and modification are UPF markers.
• Corn-Based Sweeteners (High Fructose Corn Syrup, Corn Syrup): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Modified Starches (Modified Corn Starch): Chemical modification is a hallmark of UPF.
• Artificial Colors (Yellow 5 & 6): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Agar, Locust Bean Gum): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Within Cakes & Pastries, this product is more processed than about 16% of the 11,919 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Pie's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Natural FlavorsUPF marker

In this product: Natural Flavor.

Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.

EmulsifiersUPF marker

In this product: Polysorbate 60.

Industrial emulsifiers indicate UPF.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: ""B"" Vitamins (Niacin, Thiamine Mononitrate (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Folic Acid).

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Palm Oil, Lemon Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Sugar, Dextrose. Contains 2% Or Less Of Salt.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Food Bases & AlkalisProcessing indicator

In this product: Baking Soda.

Common in baking, excessive use indicates processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

Natural PreservativesProcessing indicator

In this product: Titanium Dioxide Preservatives (Sodium Propionate, Sodium Benzoate, Calcium Propionate).

Natural sources but industrial application.