The BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This BANQUET meal received a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 2g of fiber per 100g, contributing a small bonus to its score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
With 212.12mg of sodium per 100g, it contributes significantly to daily sodium intake.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -3 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
4.04g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
212.12mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
The BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl earns a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. While it provides 2g of fiber per 100g and a notable 17% DV of Vitamin A, these positive aspects only add 3 bonus points. The product contains several ingredients typical of processed foods, such as modified corn starch and isolated soy protein, which are common in formulations designed for shelf stability and convenience rather than whole-food nutrition. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this BANQUET meal generally offers less diverse micronutrient content and a higher degree of processing, impacting its overall nutritional quality despite its moderate calorie density of 106.06 calories per 100g.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in banquet chicken cantina bowl actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Fiber
This BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl offers 2g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can still contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when combined with other fiber-rich foods throughout the day. Including fiber in meals can help support regular bowel movements and overall gut function.
Contains Vitamin A
The product provides 17% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can contribute to meeting your daily requirements for this essential micronutrient. It's important to consume a variety of foods to ensure adequate intake of all necessary vitamins.
Convenient Meal Option
For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, the BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl offers a convenient and quick meal solution. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful for busy schedules or when access to cooking facilities is limited. While not a substitute for home-cooked meals, it can serve as an occasional option to prevent skipping meals entirely, providing some calories and nutrients.
The BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl is typically consumed as a single-serving frozen meal, heated in a microwave or oven. It's often chosen for its convenience and quick preparation during lunch or dinner, especially on busy days. The entire meal is usually eaten as one portion.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding a side of fresh, non-starchy vegetables like a green salad or steamed broccoli.
Pair this meal with a piece of fruit, such as an apple or orange, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of the sodium content; balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to manage overall sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
The BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl contains several common allergens, including milk and soy, as indicated by the presence of cheddar cheese and isolated soy protein. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes modified corn starch and various flavorings, which are typical of ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience sensitivities to certain food additives. The sodium content of 212.12mg per 100g is moderate, but consuming the entire meal (which is larger than 100g) will contribute a more significant amount to daily sodium intake, which should be considered by individuals monitoring their sodium for blood pressure management.
The BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl received a FoodScore of 43/100, categorizing it as 'Poor.' This is largely due to its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and its overall nutrient balance. While it offers some fiber and Vitamin A, it is not considered a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption.
How does BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as certain Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice options, the BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl may have a similar or slightly lower nutritional score depending on the specific product. Many frozen meals, by nature, are ultra-processed and can be high in sodium. Always check the nutrition facts and ingredient list for direct comparisons.
What is 'modified rice starch' and why is it in the ingredients?
Modified rice starch is a food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. In the BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl, it likely contributes to the texture and consistency of the sauce and chicken. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a reasonable portion size for this meal?
The serving size for the BANQUET Chicken Cantina Bowl is listed as '1 MEAL,' meaning the entire package is intended as a single portion. While convenient, consuming the whole meal will provide all the listed calories, sodium, and other nutrients. For some, this may be a larger portion than needed for a single meal.
Can I improve the nutritional value of this frozen meal?
Yes, you can enhance the nutritional value by adding fresh ingredients. Incorporating extra steamed vegetables, a side salad, or a piece of fruit can increase the fiber and micronutrient content of your meal. This helps to balance the meal's overall nutritional profile.