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  4. 10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed)
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  • 10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed) 3
  • 10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed) 4
  • 10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed) 5

10 Healthiest Jellies of 2024 (Nutritionist-Reviewed)

Breakfast is hardly complete without a large shmear of jelly, but most conventional jellies are full of preservatives, stabilizers, and excessive sugars. That’s why we decided to figure out what makes a great healthy jelly!

In our research, we found that the best jellies contain just fruit, sugar, and pectin, fit your macronutrient needs, and are non-GMO. They might not even be jellies at all but jams and preserves instead. Keeping these things in mind, we’ve come up with a list of our favorite healthy jellies available online, including our top pick by Crofter's. We've also prepared a handy buying guide with extra tips from nutritionist Kara Swanson.
Last updated 02/21/2024
Kara Swanson
Expert
Nutritionist
Kara Swanson

Kara Swanson is a certified nutritionist and the founder of Life Well Lived. She is married to her best friend and the proud mother of three. Her passion is to make nutrition simple+easy+delicious!

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Healthy Jelly – Buying Guide

Here, we'll be introducing the following three important points to check when you choose a healthy jelly.

Points to Consider:

  1. Consider Jams or Preserves Over Jellies
  2. Look for Quality Ingredients 
  3. Check for Official Certifications for Peace of Mind
1

Consider Jams or Preserves Over Jellies

Consider Jams or Preserves Over Jellies
While jams, jellies, and preserves are often used interchangeably, they’re actually a bit different. Jelly uses fruit juice as the base whereas jams and preserves both use whole fruit chunks, which means they have more fiber and nutrients


This also gives them more texture and flavor variance, if that’s something you appreciate. That being said, jams and preserves aren’t automatically healthier as they can also include artificial ingredients and excess sugar.


If you're looking for a healthy option, look for lower amounts of sugar, less additives, and more fruit (more on that below).

Kara Swanson
Nutritionist
Kara Swanson

A simple healthy swap for jelly is to use a jam instead. It typically has less sugar (but make sure you read the labels to ensure it isn't loaded with sugar!) and it is higher in fiber, making it a great way to still get some sweetness on your toast but in a healthier way.

2

Look for Quality Ingredients

Society has come pretty far in terms of creating the best flavors for our food, but that doesn't mean they're always high-quality or good for us. Here are some things you should look out for in your jelly.

Avoid Additives and Stabilizers Besides Pectin

Avoid Additives and Stabilizers Besides Pectin
When looking at the ingredients list, you want to see an ingredients list that looks like something you could find in your pantry—fruit, some sugar, and not much else.


One thing that will almost invariably be in your jelly, though, is pectin. Pectin is a type of fiber naturally found in all fruit and serves as a gelling agent. Some fruits, such as lemons, apples, and cranberries, have higher amounts of pectin and thus may not need additional pectin to turn them into jam or jelly. 


On the other hand, most other fruits will likely require added pectin. In the healthiest jellies, pectin should be the only added gelling agent, so try to avoid other stabilizers, gums, and additives.

Kara Swanson
Nutritionist
Kara Swanson

It can be confusing when you're looking at labels to know what's healthy and what's unhealthy. A good rule of thumb when it comes to jellies and jams is to look for real fruit, maybe a little sugar, and nothing else. Pectin is okay and acts as a natural gelling agent, but if there is much more than that, try another jelly or jam.

Watch Out for Added Sugars—Artificial and Natural

Watch Out for Added Sugars—Artificial and Natural
By its nature, jelly requires sugar in order to develop its spreadable, gel-like texture. But that doesn’t mean that it needs to be saturated with it. Some jellies contain less sugar thanks to different varieties of pectin. So when looking at the nutrition label, try to look for a jelly that has less than 8 grams of added sugar per serving. 

For reference, the daily amount of added sugar intake recommended by the American Heart Association is 36 grams of sugar for men and 25 grams for women. If you go any higher than 8 grams per serving, that can be up to a third of your daily limit!


On the other hand, some jellies lower their sugar content by using artificial sweeteners. Check the ingredients list to see what kind of sweeteners they use. Some people have sensitivities to stevia or erythritol, and if you aren’t sure if your body can handle it, artificial sweeteners may be best to avoid.

Kara Swanson
Nutritionist
Kara Swanson

Sugar is going to be in jelly and jam but you should be aware and conscious of how much sugar is actually added per serving. It's important to also note where the sugar is coming from


Fruit has natural sugar, which is okay! But then there is added sugar and artificial sugar. I recommend you stay away from artificial sugar as much as possible, especially sucralose.

3

Check for Official Certifications for Peace of Mind

Check for Official Certifications for Peace of Mind
Fruits often top the list of foods produced using GMOs and pesticides, so to avoid any risky contamination, it’s best to look for official non-GMO or organic stamps. Of course, if you have food sensitivities or restrictions, look for certifications that meet your needs too.

Most jellies will be vegan or gluten-free since they're naturally free of both animal products and gluten, but if you want to be 100% sure, look for official certification on the label or the company's website as well.

Kara Swanson
Nutritionist
Kara Swanson

Don't be afraid to do a little research and take charge of your health. If you are unsure about anything a product claims, are confused about the label, or have a question about what's in their product, reach out and ask them. Knowledge is power and it's important to ask questions when it comes to the food we are consuming on a daily basis.

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10 Healthiest Jellies

No matter how healthy a jelly is, it does you no good if you don’t like the flavor! So be sure to read reviews to get a good idea for the taste before you buy.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Crofter's

Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread

Crofter's  Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread 1

$9.99

Low

A Classic Grape Jelly That's Low in Sugar

2

World of Chia

Chia Strawberry Fruit Spread3 pack

World of Chia Chia Strawberry Fruit Spread 1

$24.87

High

A Strawberry Jam That Uses Chia Seeds Instead of Pectin

3

DiaBliss

Mixed Fruit Jam with Herbal Extract Blend

DiaBliss Mixed Fruit Jam with Herbal Extract Blend 1

$11.59

Mid

A Low-Glycemic Jam With Special Sugar Can Extract

4

Trade Street Jam Co.

Strawberry Chipotle + Fig Jam

Trade Street Jam Co. Strawberry Chipotle + Fig Jam 1

$13.00

High Mid

A Small-Batch, Pectin-Free Jam With a Kick

5

Newport Jerky Company

GATOR Jam

Newport Jerky Company GATOR Jam 1

$12.99

High Mid

One of the Best No-Sugar-Added Jams

6

Valle de Panchoy

Guava Fruit Preserves

Valle de Panchoy Guava Fruit Preserves 1

$11.95

Mid

A Tropical Taste for Your Morning Pastry

7

Nature's Hollow

Apricot Jam

Nature's Hollow Apricot Jam 1

$10.47

Low Mid

A Sugar-Free Alternative With Lots of Fruity Taste

8

Spread the Love

Artisan JamRaspberry

Spread the Love Artisan Jam 1

$11.99

Mid

A Delicious, Two-Ingredient, Additive-Free Jam

9

Mrs. Miller's

Homemade Jams2 pack, Hot Pepper Jelly

Mrs. Miller's Homemade Jams 1

$11.37

Mid

A Hot Pepper Jelly to Spice Things Up

10

Good Good

Sweet Blueberry Jam

Good Good Sweet Blueberry Jam 1

$10.99

Low Mid

A Keto-Friendly and Diet-Friendly Jam

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Crofter's Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread

Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread 1
Source:walmart.com
Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread 2
Source:walmart.com
Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread 3
Source:walmart.com
Reference price
$9.99
Low
Reference price
$9.99
Low

A Classic Grape Jelly That's Low in Sugar

Features:
  • organic
  • low sugar
  • non-GMO
Recommended for:
  • sweet enough to satisfy any sweet tooth, but still organic and healthy enough to eat without feeling guilty

This is a classic grape jelly that sits perfectly between super sweet conventional jellies and not sweet enough health-focused jellies. Reviewers love the flavor and write that it’s thick and spreads like a jam. It’s sweet enough for kids to like it without being overpoweringly sugary.

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No.2

World of ChiaChia Strawberry Fruit Spread3 pack

Chia Strawberry Fruit Spread 1
Source:amazon.com
Chia Strawberry Fruit Spread 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.87
High
Reference price
$24.87
High

A Strawberry Jam That Uses Chia Seeds Instead of Pectin

Features:

  • no pectin
  • 4 simple ingredients

Recommended for:

  • a new, unique spin on jelly with healthy choice alternative ingredients like chia seeds and agave nectar

If you're not too hot on pectin in your fruit spreads, consider this pectin-less alternative! This strawberry fruit spread is made with chia seeds instead. It's also fairly low in sugar, and it only takes four simple ingredients to make it.


Reviewers did warn that the chia seeds aren't crushed or powdered, so that will interrupt an otherwise smooth texture. If you're willing to get past that, though, you'll love the not-too-sweet flavor like many other buyers did!

No.3

DiaBlissMixed Fruit Jam with Herbal Extract Blend

Reference price
$11.59
Mid

A Low-Glycemic Jam With Special Sugar Can Extract

Features:
  • herb-infused fruit jam
  • low glycemic index
  • sweet, lightly spiced flavor

Recommended for:

  • fans of spiced jams and jellies

This herb-infused fruit jam has a low glycemic index (GI), which means that it won’t cause insulin spikes. That's because it's sweetened with special DiaBliss sugar, a mix of cane sugar, pomegranate, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and more. Reviewers love the sweet, lightly spiced flavor.


However, do note that the serving size is 1 teaspoon (as opposed to most other jams’ 1 tablespoon), so if you’re looking for specific macronutrient counts, be sure to watch your portion size. Also note that while the product photo shows a 10.6-ounce jar, you'll receive an 11.5-ounce one from this order!
No.4

Trade Street Jam Co.Strawberry Chipotle + Fig Jam

Reference price
$13.00
High Mid
Reference price
$13.00
High Mid

A Small-Batch, Pectin-Free Jam With a Kick

Features:
  • sweet and lightly spicy
  • produced in a small-batches
  • comes with recipe cards

Recommended for:

  • adventurous eaters who love sweet and spicy combinations

This unique jam is sweet and lightly spicy. Unlike most jams, it contains no pectin, instead relying on the natural gelling ability of the fruit it contains. It's also produced in a small-batch facility by a Black women-owned business, so you can feel good about who you're buying from!


Reviewers write that it’s not too sweet and has a pleasant kick that makes it go well with both sweet and savory foods. It even comes with recipe cards to give you some ideas!
No.5

Newport Jerky CompanyGATOR Jam

GATOR Jam 1
Source:amazon.com
GATOR Jam 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$12.99
High Mid
Reference price
$12.99
High Mid

One of the Best No-Sugar-Added Jams

Features:
  • sweetened with only natural fruit sugars
  • gluten-free, fat-free, and all-natural
  • made in the US in small batches

Recommended for:

  • fun and low-sugar option for kids

This GATOR (ginger, apple, tangerine, orange, raspberry) jam contains no added sugar and is sweetened with only natural sugars from the fruits


Despite its low added sugar content, it’s kid-friendly and still quite sweet. It’s easily spreadable and tastes great in a wide variety of culinary situations. Reviewers liked it with both sweet and savory foods, especially as a muffin topping.
No.6

Valle de PanchoyGuava Fruit Preserves

Guava Fruit Preserves 1
Source:amazon.com
Guava Fruit Preserves 2
Source:amazon.com
Guava Fruit Preserves 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.95
Mid
Reference price
$11.95
Mid

A Tropical Taste for Your Morning Pastry

Features:

  • only 4 natural ingredients
  • no added preservatives or dyes
  • 70%+ fruit, with fiber minerals, and antioxidants

Recommended for:

  • a burst of tropical flavor on your favorite breakfast pastries


If you're a jelly connoisseur and are looking to try something a bit different, why not try out these healthy guava preserves? It only contains four natural ingredients - no added preservatives or dyes whatsoever.


Reviewers loved the tropical taste of the jam and said it reminded them of their trips to Hawai'i. They suggest spreading it on toast or croissants to take your breakfast to a whole new level. 

No.7

Nature's HollowApricot Jam

Apricot Jam 1
Source:amazon.com
Apricot Jam 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$10.47
Low Mid
Reference price
$10.47
Low Mid

A Sugar-Free Alternative With Lots of Fruity Taste

Features:
  • contains no sugar
  • sweetened with xylitol
  • available in 5 flavors: strawberry, blueberry, peach, and more

Recommended for:

  • diabetics, or people looking for an option without any sugar that still tastes great

This jam contains no sugar and is suitable for diabetics. Instead, it’s sweetened with xylitol, a sugar alcohol that tastes like sugar and doesn’t have any adverse health effects! It's also available in five other flavors like strawberry, blueberry, peach, and more.


Reviewers love that this apricot jam tastes homemade, and many report that it’s better than many apricot jams that do include sugar. Buyers on the keto diet also loved it!
No.8

Spread the LoveArtisan JamRaspberry

Artisan Jam 1
Source:amazon.com
Artisan Jam 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.99
Mid
Reference price
$11.99
Mid

A Delicious, Two-Ingredient, Additive-Free Jam

Features:
  • just two ingredients: fruit and sugar
  • full of nutrients and antioxidants
  • all-natural, gluten-free, pectin-free

Recommended for:

  • a simply crafted jam that delivers on the pure, sweet, and tart taste of raspberry—great for baking or eating on toast 

If you’re just looking for a spread with the fewest ingredients possible and aren’t too concerned with sugar content, this is the jam for you. It has just two ingredients (fruit and sugar) and is packed full of nutrients and antioxidants.


Reviewers love the simplicity of this jam and write that it has the perfect amount of sweetness. For those who like their jams with a little bit of texture, this one does contain seeds.
No.9

Mrs. Miller'sHomemade Jams2 pack, Hot Pepper Jelly

Homemade Jams 1
Source:amazon.com
Homemade Jams 2
Source:amazon.com
Homemade Jams 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.37
Mid

A Hot Pepper Jelly to Spice Things Up

Features:
  • sweet and spicy
  • small chunks of peppers
  • only sugars and cane sugars

Recommended for:

  • use on cheeses and meats for a sweet and savory addition and to add a slightly spicy kick

This hot pepper jelly has the perfect balance of sweet and spicy and includes small chunks of peppers for added flavor and texture. It also contains only sugars and cane sugars, so you don't have to deal with any corn syrup (if you're trying to avoid that).


Reviewers write that it’s less sweet than other pepper jellies and perhaps a bit spicier–though spiciness is, of course, relative. It’s great mixed with cream cheese or used anywhere you might use ketchup.
No.10

Good GoodSweet Blueberry Jam

Sweet Blueberry Jam 1
Source:amazon.com
Sweet Blueberry Jam 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$10.99
Low Mid

A Keto-Friendly and Diet-Friendly Jam

Features:
  • sweetened with erythritol and stevia
  • low-calorie, keto-friendly, vegan, diabetic-friendly
  • comes in 4 flavors: blueberry, raspberry, apricot, and strawberry

Recommended for:

  • low-calorie option that works for various diets, with low carbs and low-sugar contenttry it with low car bread and peanut butter

This jam is ideal for those looking to cut down on sugar intake. It’s sweetened with erythritol and stevia, which are both generally considered safe and healthy.


Reviewers love that it’s keto-friendly and diabetic-friendly and note that it’s a bit on the thinner side. Do be aware that this jam does contain some preservatives, so if that’s something you’re trying to avoid, this may not be the jam for you.

Healthy Swaps Direct From Kara Swanson

Healthy Swaps Direct From Kara Swanson

One of my favorite healthy swaps is, instead of using jelly or jam, mashing some raspberries up and topping peanut butter with the fresh raspberries. It's such a yummy treat and an easy way to cut down on sugar.


Another easy swap you can do is by just topping your toast with fresh fruit to add some sweetness. It's easy, healthier, and a fun way to switch your peanut butter sandwich up. Try banana slices, strawberry slices, blueberries, or your favorite fruit!

More Toppings for Your Meal Time

Jelly's great and all, but what about all the other great condiments out there? Here are some of our favorite picks.

Top 5 Healthiest Jellies

No. 1: Crofter's Organic Concord Grape Premium Spread

No. 2: World of ChiaChia Strawberry Fruit Spread3 pack

No. 3: DiaBlissMixed Fruit Jam with Herbal Extract Blend

No. 4: Trade Street Jam Co.Strawberry Chipotle + Fig Jam

No. 5: Newport Jerky CompanyGATOR Jam

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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