67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE, ORIGINAL SAUCE
67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite providing some protein.
This product receives a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 750mg per 100g.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this SKU is higher in sodium and contains more processed ingredients.
Consider this product for occasional use, focusing on portion control and balancing with whole foods.
Scores -4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
7.86g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
750mg
33% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.9g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (750mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
The 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product does offer 7.86g of protein per 100g, contributing a +3 bonus, and 1.93mg of iron (11% DV), adding a +2 bonus, these positive aspects are largely offset. The most notable nutritional drawback is the high sodium content at 750mg per 100g, which results in a -3 penalty. The ingredient list begins with 'MEATBALLS (PORK, WATER, BEEF, BREAD CRUMBS (WHEAT FLOUR, SALT, LEAVENING [AMMONIUM BICARBONATE]), TEXTURED VEGETABLE PROTEIN PRODUCT (SOY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE…))' and the sauce contains high fructose corn syrup, indicating a formulation with multiple processed components. Compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, this product contains more additives and a higher sodium level, contributing to its lower nutritional score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in 67th street bbq meatballs with original sauce, original sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Protein
This product provides 7.86g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for overall satiety. While not a primary protein source for a meal, it can supplement other protein-rich foods or serve as a component in a larger dish.
Contains Iron
The 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE offers 1.93mg of iron per 100g, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production in the body. Including iron-containing foods in your diet is important for preventing iron deficiency.
Convenient Meal Component
For individuals seeking a quick meal solution, this product offers convenience and ease of preparation. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful on busy days when time for cooking from scratch is limited. While not a whole food, it can be incorporated into a meal plan when convenience is a priority, provided other nutritional considerations are met.
67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite providing some protein.
How to eat it
These meatballs are typically consumed as a main dish or appetizer, often heated and served with sides. A common portion might be around 5 meatballs with sauce, which is the declared serving size. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other foods.
Pair with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider serving with a small portion of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add complex carbohydrates and fiber.
To manage sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day and avoid adding extra salt.
If using as an appetizer, serve smaller portions and accompany with fresh vegetable sticks or fruit to provide a more balanced offering.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers with specific dietary needs should note. The ingredient list includes wheat flour in the bread crumbs and soy protein concentrate in the textured vegetable protein, indicating potential allergens for individuals with wheat or soy sensitivities. The presence of high fructose corn syrup in the barbecue sauce is also a consideration for those monitoring sugar intake, although the product declares 0g of added sugar per 100g, which may be due to the serving size calculation. Individuals sensitive to highly processed foods, classified as NOVA class 4, may also wish to limit consumption. The high sodium content of 750mg per 100g should be considered by those managing blood pressure.
Is 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 42/100, this product is classified as 'Poor' nutritionally. It is an ultra-processed food with high sodium content. While it provides some protein and iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a primary choice for a healthy diet and should be consumed in moderation.
How does 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS compare to other frozen meatballs?
Compared to some other frozen meatball brands like Farm Rich Homestyle Meatballs, 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS WITH ORIGINAL SAUCE may have similar challenges regarding sodium and processing level. Many frozen prepared meatball products tend to be high in sodium and often contain processed ingredients. Always compare the nutrition facts panel and ingredient list when choosing.
What is 'textured vegetable protein product' in the ingredients?
The 'textured vegetable protein product' in 67TH STREET BBQ MEATBALLS is typically made from soy protein concentrate and fortified with various vitamins and minerals. It is used as a meat extender and to improve texture, contributing to the product's protein content while also indicating a higher degree of processing.
What is a reasonable portion size for these meatballs?
The declared serving size is 5 meatballs with sauce, which is 140g. This portion contributes significantly to daily sodium intake. For a balanced meal, consider limiting your portion to 3-4 meatballs and complementing with a larger volume of vegetables and a smaller portion of whole grains.
Can I reduce the sodium content when preparing these meatballs?
The sodium content is inherent in the meatballs and the original sauce, so it's difficult to significantly reduce it during preparation. You can try to drain excess sauce if possible or dilute it with a low-sodium broth, but the primary sodium source is within the product itself.