AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS earns a FoodScore of 49/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 49/100 (Decent).
Contains 1539.29mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), indicating extensive industrial processing.
Provides 14.29g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g.
Consider using in moderation due to sodium levels; a 0.25 cup serving contains 385mg sodium.
Scores +2 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1539.29mg
67% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (1539.3mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 49
AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS received a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a combination of some beneficial nutrients alongside significant penalties. On the positive side, the product gains points for its protein content, providing 14.29g per 100g, and fiber, at 3.61g per 100g. It also contributes some micronutrients, specifically 11% Daily Value for calcium and 29% Daily Value for iron per 100g. However, these benefits are substantially offset by two main factors. The most significant penalty comes from its high sodium content, which is 1539.29mg per 100g, contributing to an -8 penalty. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 penalty. The ingredient list includes partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, a source of trans fats, although the nutrition label states 0g trans fat per 100g, which may be due to rounding for small amounts. Compared to a generic whole-grain bread crumb equivalent, AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS has a higher sodium content and is made with enriched flour rather than primarily whole grains, impacting its overall nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in america's choice bread crumbs actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS provides 14.29g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Incorporating this product into dishes can help increase the protein content of meals, especially when combined with other protein sources like lean meats or legumes.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS offers a modest amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not a primary fiber source, it can add to the total daily fiber intake when used as part of a balanced meal.
Provides Iron and Calcium
This product contributes 29% of the Daily Value for iron and 11% for calcium per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism, while calcium is vital for bone health and nerve function. While these amounts are not exceptionally high, they can help supplement the intake of these important minerals in the diet.
AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS earns a FoodScore of 49/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Bread crumbs are commonly used as a coating for fried or baked foods, as a binder in meatballs or casseroles, or as a topping for gratins. A typical serving size is 0.25 cup, which is approximately 25g. Due to its sodium content, moderation is key when incorporating this into regular meals.
Use AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS as a light coating for baked chicken or fish instead of deep-frying to reduce overall fat intake.
Combine these bread crumbs with herbs and spices to add flavor without relying solely on the product's inherent sodium.
Mix with whole-grain bread crumbs or crushed oats to increase fiber content and dilute the sodium per serving.
When using in recipes, consider reducing or omitting other sources of added salt to manage the overall sodium level of the dish.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS contains partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, which is a source of trans fats, despite the nutrition label stating 0g trans fat per 100g. The product is also high in sodium, with 1539.29mg per 100g, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure. The ingredient list also includes high fructose corn syrup and corn syrup, which are sources of added sugars, although the nutrition facts state 0g added sugar per 100g, likely due to small amounts that round down. Allergens declared include wheat, soy, and milk (from whey), which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients.
AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS has a FoodScore of 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some protein and fiber, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food suggest it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS compare to other bread crumbs?
Compared to a generic whole-grain bread crumb, AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS is made with enriched flour and has a higher sodium content. For example, a brand like Ian's Panko Breadcrumbs often features a simpler ingredient list and may offer different nutritional profiles, so checking the nutrition label of specific brands is always recommended.
What is 'partially hydrogenated vegetable oil' in this product?
Partially hydrogenated vegetable oil is a source of trans fats, which are generally recommended to be limited in the diet. While the label states 0g trans fat per 100g, this typically means the amount is below the threshold for declaration, but small amounts may still be present.
What is a reasonable portion size for these bread crumbs?
The suggested serving size is 0.25 cup (approximately 25g). This portion contains about 385mg of sodium. To manage sodium intake, it's advisable to stick to the recommended serving size or use even smaller amounts, especially if consuming other high-sodium foods.
Can I use these bread crumbs for gluten-free recipes?
No, AMERICA'S CHOICE BREAD CRUMBS are made with enriched flour and contain wheat gluten. Therefore, they are not suitable for gluten-free diets or individuals with celiac disease. Look for specifically labeled gluten-free bread crumb alternatives.