Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal scores 56/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite providing some beneficial micronutrients.
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal has a FoodScore of 56/100 (Decent).
It provides 20% DV of iron per 100g, contributing to daily needs.
Classified as NOVA 3, this product is processed, unlike whole cornmeal.
Contains 0g of added sugar and only 3mg of sodium per 100g.
Best used as an ingredient in home cooking rather than a standalone food.
Scores +10 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
4.19g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
7.7g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
3mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.2g)+4
Protein (7.7g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 56
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal achieves a FoodScore of 56 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 4.19g per 100g, and its protein content of 7.7g per 100g. Additionally, it gains points for micronutrients, specifically iron (3.62mg, 20% DV) and riboflavin, which are added during enrichment. However, a significant penalty of -5 points is applied because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. The ingredient list includes degerminated yellow corn meal, which means the germ and bran have been removed, reducing some natural nutrients compared to whole cornmeal. The inclusion of niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid are part of the enrichment process, aiming to restore some lost B vitamins and iron. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole cornmeal, this product lacks the full spectrum of nutrients found in the whole grain due to degermination.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in aunt jemima yellow corn meal 32 ounce paper bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal is a source of iron, providing 3.62mg per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Including iron-fortified foods like this corn meal can help contribute to meeting daily iron requirements, especially for individuals who may have higher needs or are at risk of deficiency. It can be a useful component in a varied diet to support overall iron status.
Good Fiber Content
This corn meal offers a good amount of fiber, with 4.19g per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not as high in fiber as whole-grain cornmeal, this product still provides a notable contribution. Incorporating fiber-rich ingredients into meals can support a healthy digestive system and may help with blood sugar management.
Low in Sodium and Added Sugar
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal is notably low in sodium (3mg per 100g) and contains 0g of added sugar. This makes it a suitable base for many recipes where you want to control the sodium and sugar content of the final dish. Choosing ingredients with minimal added sugar and low sodium aligns with dietary guidelines to reduce the intake of these components, which are often over-consumed in the American diet. This allows for greater flexibility in seasoning and sweetening dishes to personal preference.
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal scores 56/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite providing some beneficial micronutrients.
How to eat it
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal is typically used as a foundational ingredient in various dishes, not consumed on its own. It's commonly used for baking, frying, and thickening, often in traditional American and Southern cuisine. A typical serving size is 3 tablespoons (27g), but it's usually incorporated into larger recipes.
Use this corn meal to make cornbread or muffins, pairing it with vegetables or lean protein for a more complete meal.
For a balanced meal, combine corn meal with sources of healthy fats like avocado or nuts, and plenty of non-starchy vegetables.
When making polenta or grits, enhance the nutritional profile by stirring in cooked vegetables or lean meats.
Consider using it to bread fish or chicken, but be mindful of cooking methods to avoid excessive added fats.
Things to keep in mind
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal is generally considered safe for consumption by most individuals. It is enriched with B vitamins and iron, which are beneficial. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, and it does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that are typically a concern for sensitive populations. The product is degerminated, meaning the germ and bran are removed, which reduces some of the natural oils and fiber found in whole corn. This processing makes it less nutrient-dense than whole grain cornmeal, but it does not introduce any specific health risks. Individuals with corn allergies should, of course, avoid this product.
Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal scores 56/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides some beneficial nutrients like iron and fiber, and is low in sodium and added sugar. However, it is a processed product (NOVA 3) due to degermination and enrichment, meaning it's not a whole grain. Its healthfulness depends on how it's prepared and what it's paired with in your diet.
How does Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal compare to Bob's Red Mill Medium Grind Cornmeal?
Compared to a whole grain cornmeal like Bob's Red Mill Medium Grind Cornmeal, Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal is degerminated, meaning the germ and bran are removed. This results in a slightly lower fiber content and different micronutrient profile, even with enrichment. Whole grain cornmeal typically offers more intact nutrients and fiber per serving.
What does 'degerminated' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'degerminated' means that the germ and bran, which are parts of the corn kernel, have been removed during processing. The germ contains most of the corn's oil and some nutrients, while the bran is rich in fiber. Removing these components can extend shelf life and alter texture but also reduces some of the natural nutritional benefits of whole corn.
What is a reasonable portion size for corn meal in a recipe?
The declared serving size is 3 tablespoons (27g), which is a small amount typically used as an ingredient. When incorporating it into recipes like cornbread or grits, consider the total portion of the final dish. For example, a slice of cornbread might contain several servings of corn meal, so balance it with other nutrient-dense foods in your meal.
Can I use Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal for gluten-free baking?
Yes, corn meal is naturally gluten-free, making Aunt Jemima Yellow Corn Meal suitable for gluten-free baking. It can be used as a flour alternative or in combination with other gluten-free flours to create various baked goods. Always check for any cross-contamination warnings on the packaging if severe gluten sensitivity is a concern, though none are declared here.