ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner scores 48/100, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **high sodium content**, despite offering some protein and fiber.
FoodScore: 48/100 (Decent), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Contains 11.7g of protein and 3.3g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in sodium at 850mg per 100g, a significant penalty.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), impacting its overall score.
Consider pairing with fresh vegetables to enhance nutrient density.
Scores +15 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
11.7g
23% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
850mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
Protein (11.7g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Sodium (850mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 48
ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner achieves a FoodScore of 48 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a mixed nutritional profile, with several positive contributions offset by significant penalties. The product receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 11.7g per 100g, and a modest 3.3g of fiber. Additionally, it contributes to micronutrient intake with 19% DV for Calcium and 19% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. However, the product incurs penalties for its saturated fat content (4.17g per 100g) and notably high sodium level, at 850mg per 100g. A major factor in its score is its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which carries a substantial penalty. Ingredients like 'natural flavor' and 'sodium phosphate' are common in such formulations. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has fewer additives and lower sodium, ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner presents a more processed option.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in annie's cheeseburger skillet dinner actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This ANNIE'S skillet dinner offers 11.7g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including adequate protein in meals can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. This product can serve as a component of a meal that helps meet daily protein needs.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 3.3g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While not exceptionally high, this amount of fiber is a positive aspect, especially when compared to many other convenience meals that offer minimal fiber. Fiber also plays a role in blood sugar management and can contribute to feelings of fullness.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner provides meaningful amounts of certain micronutrients, specifically 19% DV for Calcium and 19% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various physiological processes, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. These contributions can help fill gaps in a diet, especially if other dairy or fortified products are not regularly consumed. It's important to consider the overall diet for a complete micronutrient profile.
ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner scores 48/100, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite offering some protein and fiber.
How to eat it
This skillet dinner is typically consumed as a quick meal, often prepared by adding ground beef and water. It's designed for convenience and can be a standalone dish or part of a larger meal. A common portion size is one serving, which is 2.1 ounces (dry mix), but the nutritional values provided are per 100g of the prepared product.
To enhance the nutritional value, incorporate a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers into the skillet while cooking.
Consider using lean ground beef or a plant-based alternative to manage the overall saturated fat content of the meal.
Serve with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to increase fiber and micronutrient intake without adding excessive sodium.
Be mindful of portion sizes, as the sodium content is high; balance with low-sodium foods throughout the rest of your day.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner, which is 850mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes 'cream' and 'skim milk', indicating the presence of dairy, and 'wheat flour' for wheat, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy or wheat allergies. The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which may be a consideration for those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed foods. The presence of 'natural flavor' is also noted, which can be a complex mixture of ingredients.
Is ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner a healthy choice?
ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner scores 48/100, indicating a decent but not optimal nutritional profile. While it provides protein and fiber, its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature are significant drawbacks. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner compare to other convenience meals?
Compared to some other convenience meals, ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner offers a moderate amount of protein and fiber. However, its sodium level is relatively high. For instance, a generic frozen lasagna might have similar sodium levels but potentially less fiber. When comparing, always check the specific nutrient facts of each product.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list refers to a substance derived from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, or vegetable) whose primary function is flavoring rather than nutrition. While derived from natural sources, these can be complex mixtures of chemicals and are common in ultra-processed foods to enhance taste.
How much of this skillet dinner can I eat in a day?
Given its high sodium content of 850mg per 100g, it's advisable to consume ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner in moderation. A single serving contributes a significant portion of the daily recommended sodium intake. Balancing it with low-sodium meals throughout the day is key to staying within dietary guidelines.
Can I make this skillet dinner vegetarian?
Yes, you can prepare ANNIE'S Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner as a vegetarian meal by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative or adding extra vegetables and legumes. Be mindful that some plant-based alternatives can also be high in sodium, so checking their labels is recommended.