FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentpreparedAMY'S· 1 cup

AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake

AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake receives a FoodScore of 47/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.

  • This AMY'S product scores 47/100, indicating it is a decent option.
  • It provides 6.98g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • A notable concern is its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food.
  • Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains more processed ingredients.
  • Consider this as an occasional meal component rather than a daily staple.
  • Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 21 foods).
Fiber
0.9g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
6.98g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
279.07mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.0g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 47

AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake earns a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is influenced by several factors, both positive and negative. On the positive side, the product receives a bonus for its protein content, providing 6.98g per 100g, which can contribute to fullness. It also receives a bonus for its calcium content, supplying 12% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, several aspects lead to penalties. The product contains 4.19g of saturated fat per 100g, which contributes to a penalty. A significant factor in its score is its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a penalty of 5 points. While the product uses organic rice pasta and organic low fat milk, the overall formulation includes multiple processed ingredients like organic rice flour and organic tapioca starch. The product contains 0g of added sugar and 279.07mg of sodium per 100g, which do not incur penalties at these levels. Compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, this product's use of various flours and starches contributes to its processed nature.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in amy's broccoli & cheddar bake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

This product provides 6.98g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to feelings of satiety. Including adequate protein in meals can help manage hunger and support overall body function. The protein in this bake comes from sources like organic low fat milk and white cheddar cheese, as well as organic low fat soy flour in the pasta.

Contains Calcium

AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake contributes 160mg of calcium per 100g, providing 12% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, playing a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. It also supports nerve function and muscle contraction. The calcium in this product is primarily derived from the low fat milk and white cheddar cheese used in its formulation.

Convenient Meal Option

As a prepared meal, this product offers a convenient option for busy individuals or families. Its ready-to-heat format can save time in meal preparation, making it a practical choice when time is limited for cooking from scratch. While it is a processed food, it can serve as a component of a meal, especially when paired with fresh ingredients to enhance its nutritional profile. This convenience can help ensure regular meal consumption.

How to eat it

AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake is typically consumed as a main dish for lunch or dinner. The serving size is 1 cup, which is a reasonable portion for a single meal. It's a convenient option for quick preparation, but consider its nutritional profile when integrating it into your regular diet.

To enhance nutrient intake, pair the bake with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables.
Consider adding a source of lean protein, such as grilled chicken or fish, to create a more balanced meal.
For a lighter meal, divide the serving and combine with additional steamed or roasted vegetables.
Be mindful of the portion size; while 1 cup is a standard serving, adjust based on your individual caloric needs.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains milk and soy, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The ingredient list includes organic rice pasta which contains organic low fat soy flour. While the sodium content of 279.07mg per 100g is not excessively high, individuals monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should consider their overall daily sodium consumption. The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), meaning it contains ingredients that are not typically found in a home kitchen, such as organic rice bran extract. For most healthy individuals, this product can be consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.

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Reader questions
Is AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake a healthy meal option?
AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake receives a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers some protein and calcium, but it is also a processed food (NOVA 3) and contains a moderate amount of saturated fat. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented with whole foods.
How does AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake compare to a home-cooked broccoli and cheddar bake?
Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, AMY'S Broccoli & Cheddar Bake is more processed due to ingredients like organic rice flour and organic tapioca starch. A home-cooked version would likely allow for greater control over ingredient quality and processing levels, potentially leading to a higher FoodScore.
Does this product contain whole grains?
The primary pasta ingredient is organic rice pasta, made from organic rice flour and organic potato starch. While rice is a grain, the use of flours and starches means it is not a whole grain product. The fiber content is low at 0.9g per 100g.
What is a recommended portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. This portion provides 172.09 calories, 6.98g of protein, and 279.07mg of sodium. Adhering to the 1-cup serving size is recommended to manage calorie and nutrient intake effectively, especially given its processed nature.
Can this product be frozen for later consumption?
This product is typically sold frozen and is designed for heating from frozen. If you have leftovers from a prepared portion, it is generally not recommended to refreeze them after thawing and heating. Always follow the storage and heating instructions on the package for best quality and safety.

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Data & references