ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS, BEEF receives a FoodScore of 26/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product scores 26/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A serving contains 717.65mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
With 14.12g of saturated fat per 100g, this product is high in saturated fat.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from a home-cooked alternative.
Consider this product for occasional use, focusing on small portions and balancing with whole foods.
Scores -20 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
11.76g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
717.65mg
31% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (11.8g)+7
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.1g)-15
Sodium (717.6mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 26
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS, BEEF earns a FoodScore of 26/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its high saturated fat and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. The product contains 14.12g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -15 points. Additionally, the sodium content of 717.65mg per 100g results in a -3 point penalty. The inclusion of ingredients like textured soy flour and bread crumbs contributes to its NOVA 4 classification, leading to a -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed, with an additional -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While the product does offer 11.76g of protein per 100g, earning a +7 point bonus, this is not enough to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this ARMOUR product contains significantly higher levels of saturated fat and sodium, and includes more processed components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in armour beef meatballs, beef actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Protein
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS provide 11.76g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. While this product is not a primary source of protein due to its overall nutritional profile, it can contribute to your daily protein intake when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced meal. Pairing it with other protein sources or vegetables can enhance the meal's nutritional value.
Convenient Meal Component
This product offers convenience for quick meal preparation, which can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking. Its ready-to-heat format allows for easy integration into various dishes, such as pasta, sandwiches, or as a standalone component. While convenience is a practical benefit, it is important to balance such processed options with nutrient-dense, whole foods to ensure a comprehensive and healthy diet. The ease of preparation can help prevent skipping meals.
Provides Iron
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS contribute 1.27mg of iron per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a role in energy production. While this is not a high amount, it can contribute to your daily iron needs. To maximize iron absorption, especially from non-heme sources, consider pairing this product with foods rich in Vitamin C, such as bell peppers or tomatoes.
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS, BEEF receives a FoodScore of 26/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS are typically consumed as a quick-prep meal component, often heated and added to pasta, served with rice, or used in sandwiches. A common portion is 6 meatballs, which is the declared serving size. A pitfall is consuming them frequently without balancing the high saturated fat and sodium with other nutrient-dense foods.
To reduce the overall sodium and saturated fat intake, combine these meatballs with a large portion of steamed or roasted vegetables.
Consider using a smaller portion of meatballs (e.g., 3-4 instead of 6) and supplementing with lean protein sources like beans or lentils.
Pair with whole grain pasta or brown rice to increase fiber content and create a more balanced meal.
Use these meatballs as an occasional convenience item rather than a daily staple to moderate intake of ultra-processed foods.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (717.65mg per 100g) in ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those with sodium-sensitive conditions. The product also contains textured soy flour and soy protein concentrate, indicating it is not suitable for individuals with soy allergies. Wheat flour is also present in the bread crumbs, making it unsuitable for those with wheat allergies or celiac disease. The classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) suggests a formulation that may contribute to a less nutrient-dense diet if consumed regularly without balancing with whole, minimally processed foods.
ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS, BEEF receives a FoodScore of 26/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides some protein and iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's not a 'healthy' choice for frequent inclusion in a balanced diet.
How does ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS compare to other frozen meatballs?
Compared to some other frozen meatballs, such as those from brands like Great Value or store-brand options, ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS may have a similar nutritional profile in terms of being ultra-processed and high in sodium and saturated fat. It is always recommended to check the nutrition facts panel of specific products, as formulations can vary significantly between brands and product lines. Look for options with lower sodium and saturated fat if possible.
What is 'textured soy flour' in the ingredients?
Textured soy flour is a processed soy product used as a meat extender or protein source. It helps improve the texture and volume of the meatballs while also contributing to the protein content. Its presence, along with other processed ingredients, contributes to the product's classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a reasonable portion size for these meatballs?
The declared serving size for ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS is 6 meatballs. However, given the high saturated fat and sodium content, a smaller portion, such as 3-4 meatballs, might be more appropriate if you are trying to manage your intake of these nutrients. Always consider the rest of your meal to ensure overall balance.
Can these meatballs be part of a low-sodium diet?
No, ARMOUR BEEF MEATBALLS are not suitable for a low-sodium diet. With 717.65mg of sodium per 100g, a single serving contributes a significant amount to the daily recommended sodium limit. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should seek out products specifically labeled as 'low sodium' or 'very low sodium' and prioritize whole, unprocessed foods.