Pumpkin Squares

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

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

• Natural Flavors (Natural Vanilla): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.
• Emulsifiers (Soy Lecithin): Industrial emulsifiers indicate 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 Pumpkin Squares' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Sugar, Molasses, Confectionery Topping (Sugar, Palm Kernel Oil, Nonfat Dry Milk, Whole Milk Powder, Cocoa Butter, Soy Lecithin [An Emulsifier], Natural Flavor, Salt).

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Margarine (Soybean Oil, Palm Oil, Water, Salt, Whey Powder [Milk], Soy Lecithin, Monoglycerides, Natural Flavor, Annatto Added For Color, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3), Vegetable Shortening (Canola Oil, Palm Oil, Modified Palm And Palm Kernel Oils, Monoglycerides, Polysorbate 60), Canola Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Sea Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Food Bases & AlkalisProcessing indicator

In this product: Baking Powder (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Corn Starch, Monocalcium Phosphate, Calcium Sulfate), Baking Soda.

Common in baking, excessive use indicates processing.