What nutritional component dominates the ingredient list of 'pumpkin pie filling' compared to plain 100% pumpkin puree?

Answer

Added sugar

A critical distinction exists between pure pumpkin and manufactured pumpkin pie filling, particularly concerning added sugars. While 100% pumpkin puree, which is essentially cooked squash, is low in calories and contains only natural sugars (about 6.5 grams per cup), pie filling is heavily sweetened. The ingredient list for pie filling will typically show added sugar dominating the nutritional profile. For instance, the same volume of pie filling can easily contain over 30 grams of added sugar, drastically altering the health benefits derived from the base vegetable. This heavy addition of sugar often negates the benefits conferred by the naturally occurring fiber and Vitamin A inherent in the squash.

What nutritional component dominates the ingredient list of 'pumpkin pie filling' compared to plain 100% pumpkin puree?
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