Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional concern is its high sodium content, which significantly impacts its overall score.
This product received a FoodScore of 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A significant strength is its fiber content, providing 4g per 100g serving.
The most notable concern is the high sodium, at 1720mg per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this mix is a NOVA class 3 processed food.
Consider portion control due to the sodium level, especially if consumed regularly.
Scores +18 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix achieves a FoodScore of 51/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its fiber content, providing 4g per 100g, and its protein, at 8g per 100g. It also earns points for key micronutrients like calcium (18% DV), iron (16% DV), and folate (40% DV), which are contributed by the enriched bolted white corn meal and enriched bleached flour. However, the most significant factor impacting its score negatively is its very high sodium content, with 1720mg per 100g, which is well above recommended daily limits and results in a substantial penalty. Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty for its level of processing. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has lower sodium and less processing, Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix presents a different nutritional profile, emphasizing the need for consumers to consider its role within a balanced diet.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in aunt jemima buttermilk corn meal mix 5 pound bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Key Micronutrients
This corn meal mix provides several important micronutrients, notably folate, offering 40% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Folate is essential for cell division and growth, making it important for various bodily functions. The product also contributes 18% DV for calcium and 16% DV for iron, which are vital for bone health and oxygen transport, respectively. These nutrients are primarily present due to the enrichment process of the corn meal and flour ingredients.
Contains Dietary Fiber
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix contains 4g of fiber per 100g serving. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to satiety. While 4g is not exceptionally high, it can contribute to your daily fiber intake, which many Americans fall short of. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can support overall gut function.
Provides Protein
With 8g of protein per 100g, this mix can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is fundamental for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. While not a primary protein source, the protein content in this mix can complement other protein-rich foods in a meal, helping to create a more balanced nutritional profile for your dish.
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional concern is its high sodium content, which significantly impacts its overall score.
How to eat it
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix is typically used to prepare baked goods like cornbread, muffins, or as a coating for fried foods. It's a foundational ingredient in many Southern-style dishes, often served as a side or a component of a larger meal. Common portion sizes for cornbread are usually one slice, which would be a fraction of a 100g serving.
To balance the high sodium, consider pairing cornbread made with this mix with low-sodium main dishes and plenty of fresh vegetables.
Use this mix in moderation, especially if you are monitoring your sodium intake; a smaller portion can still provide flavor without excessive sodium.
When preparing, you can enhance the nutritional value by adding ingredients like shredded zucchini or corn kernels to the batter for extra fiber and vitamins.
For a slightly different texture and added nutrients, try substituting a portion of the mix with whole wheat flour in recipes.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix, which is 1720mg per 100g. Individuals on sodium-restricted diets or those with high blood pressure should consume this product sparingly or choose lower-sodium alternatives. The ingredient list also declares 'CONTAINS WHEAT AND MILK INGREDIENTS', indicating potential allergens for individuals with sensitivities to these components. The presence of enriched bleached flour means it is a refined grain product, which may have a different glycemic impact compared to whole grain options. While generally safe for consumption, mindful portioning is key due to its nutritional profile.
Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix scores 51/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides some fiber, protein, and micronutrients like folate, its very high sodium content is a significant nutritional drawback. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with low-sodium foods.
How does Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix compare to generic cornmeal?
Compared to plain, generic cornmeal, Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix is a more processed product (NOVA class 3) due to added ingredients like leavening (monocalcium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate) and dried buttermilk. Generic cornmeal typically has a simpler ingredient list and often much lower sodium, making it a less processed option for baking.
What is 'enriched bolted white corn meal'?
'Enriched bolted white corn meal' refers to corn meal that has had some of its outer layers removed (bolted) and then has specific vitamins and minerals added back in (enriched). In this product, these include niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, which contribute to the product's micronutrient bonuses.
What is a reasonable portion size for cornbread made with this mix?
Given the high sodium content of 1720mg per 100g, a reasonable portion size for cornbread made with this mix would be a small slice or serving, especially if you are monitoring your sodium intake. Focus on enjoying it as a complement to a meal rather than a primary component, and balance it with other low-sodium foods.
Can I use this mix for gluten-free recipes?
No, Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Corn Meal Mix contains wheat ingredients, specifically 'Enriched Bleached Flour'. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals following a gluten-free diet. Always check the ingredient list for wheat and other gluten-containing grains if you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.