# Duncan Hines Brownie Mix, Milk Chocolate > Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop. ## Snapshot - **Brand:** Duncan Hines - **Retailer listed:** Foodtown - **Category:** Cooking & Baking - **Size:** 18 oz - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/duncan-hines-brownie-mix-milk-chocolate-18-oz - **Slug:** `duncan-hines-brownie-mix-milk-chocolate-18-oz` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods This boxed brownie mix is an ultra-processed product made from refined ingredients (sugar, enriched bleached flour, palm shortening, alkali-processed cocoa) and includes added flavorings and starches; it is a formulated, shelf-stable industrial mix designed for convenience. ## Review Duncan Hines Milk Chocolate Brownie Mix sits in the supermarket baking aisle, stacked on mid- or lower-shelf displays near boxed cake and brownie mixes, frosting tubs, cupcake liners and canned frosting — the convenience-baking neighborhood. It reads like a family pantry staple for quick homemade desserts: the box promises fudgy, milk-chocolate brownies you can make by adding water, eggs and oil. The brand leans on decades of American kitchen familiarity — a classic, approachable name aimed at home bakers who want reliable results, families baking with kids, and shoppers seeking affordable, comforting treats. Packaging is a glossy cardboard box with appetizing imagery and a simple recipe; label copy highlights certified Kosher status but contains no organic or “all-natural” certification, and the ingredient list shows refined sugars, enriched bleached flour, vegetable shortening and flavorings. There are mild health halos in the form of brand trust and serving suggestions, but no explicit wellness claims. In plain terms, this is a highly processed, shelf-stable baking mix formulated to deliver consistent texture and flavor with minimal effort. Sensory cues: the batter is smooth and velvety, pouring easily into a pan, and the finished brownies are dense, fudgy and moist with a sweet, chocolate-forward taste and a soft crumb. The ritual is domestic and convivial — quick mixing, oven countdowns, steam and chocolate aroma filling the kitchen, and eager kids or guests hovering with spoons. It’s as much about convenience and nostalgia as about the dessert itself. ## Diet flags - Vegetarian - Dairy-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 0.05 - **Servings per container:** 20 - **Calories:** 100 - **Total fat:** 1.5g (2% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 0.5g (3% DV) - **Sodium:** 65mg (3% DV) - **Total carbs:** 22g (8% DV) - **Total sugars:** 15g - **Added sugars:** 15g (30% DV) - **Protein:** 1g ## Ingredients INGREDIENTS: SUGAR, ENRICHED BLEACHED WHEAT FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID), VEGETABLE SHORTENING (PALM OIL), COCOA POWDER PROCESSED WITH ALKALI, CONTAINS 2% OR LESS OF: DEXTROSE, SALT, WHEAT STARCH, NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR, BAKING SODA. ## Flagged ingredients - **palm oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids - **soy lecithin** (emulsifier): Processed emulsifier - **Red 40** (additive): Artificial coloring ## Context tags - **Occasions:** holiday-baking, movie-night, back-to-school - **Vibes:** nostalgic, indulgent, convenient, comforting ## FAQ ### Is the brownie mix healthy? Well, that depends on your definition of healthy! These brownies are definitely a treat, with 15 grams of added sugar per serving. If you're looking for a quick sugar fix or a fun dessert, they fit the bill, but they're not what you'd call a health food. ### Is it vegan? Nope, this brownie mix isn't vegan. While it doesn't contain obvious dairy ingredients, the enriched bleached wheat flour could have traces of dairy due to processing. So, if you're strictly avoiding animal products, you might want to look for a dedicated vegan mix. ### Is it gluten-free? Not at all! This brownie mix contains enriched bleached wheat flour, which means it's packed with gluten. If you're following a gluten-free diet, you’ll want to skip this one and find a mix specifically labeled gluten-free. ### Does it contain seed oils? Yes, it does contain vegetable shortening, which is often made from palm oil. While palm oil is technically a seed oil, it’s not the same as the more controversial soybean or canola oils. In moderation, it’s generally considered safe, but it’s always good to be mindful of the type of fats you’re consuming. ### Does it contain artificial sweeteners? Surprisingly, yes! This mix includes dextrose, which is a type of sugar, but it also has natural and artificial flavors. While it doesn’t have traditional artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, the presence of artificial flavors might be a deal-breaker for some. ### Is it high in sugar? Absolutely, it's on the higher side with 15 grams of added sugar per serving! If you're counting sugar for health reasons, this isn't your best bet. But hey, sometimes you just want a little sweetness in your life, right? ### What are healthier alternatives? If you’re looking for a healthier brownie option, consider mixes that use whole grains, natural sweeteners, or even bean-based ingredients. Brands like Simple Mills or even homemade recipes can offer a more wholesome twist while still satisfying your chocolate cravings. ### Can kids eat it? Definitely! Kids will love the chocolatey goodness, but it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to the sugar content. Just keep an eye on portion sizes, and maybe pair it with a glass of milk or some fruit for a balanced treat. ### Is it good for weight loss? In the context of weight loss, this brownie mix isn’t exactly a go-to. With its high sugar and calorie content, it’s more of an indulgence than a diet-friendly option. If you're trying to shed some pounds, you might want to save these for a special occasion. ### Is it ultra-processed? Yes, this brownie mix falls into the ultra-processed category. It contains several ingredients that have been refined and altered from their original form, like enriched flour and vegetable shortening. 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