BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 55/100 (Decent), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Contains 16.9g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in sodium at 619.72mg per 100g, a significant penalty.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), distinguishing it from whole, unprocessed sardines.
A convenient option for adding protein, but consider the sodium intake.
Scores +8 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
16.9g
34% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
619.72mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (16.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (619.7mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 55
BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil receives a FoodScore of 55/100, placing it in the decent category. The product earns a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 16.9g per 100g, which is a positive for muscle maintenance and satiety. It also receives a small bonus for its Vitamin A content, at 31% DV. However, these benefits are offset by penalties. The primary detractor is the high sodium level of 619.72mg per 100g, which exceeds recommended daily limits for many individuals. Additionally, its NOVA class 3 designation as a processed food incurs a penalty, reflecting the addition of various ingredients beyond basic preservation, such as sundried tomato flavor and seasoning blends. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole sardines and simple olive oil, this product contains more added ingredients and a higher sodium concentration, impacting its overall nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bumble bee sardines in olive oil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This BUMBLE BEE product provides 16.9g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in hormone and enzyme production. Including adequate protein in meals can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help with weight management. This makes the sardines a convenient way to boost protein intake, especially for individuals looking for non-meat protein sources.
Contains Vitamin A
BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil offers 31% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. While not the primary source of Vitamin A in a typical diet, this product can contribute to your daily intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Convenient Meal Component
The convenient pouch format of this product allows for easy incorporation into meals or as a quick snack. While processed, it can serve as a readily available source of protein and some micronutrients when fresh options are not accessible. Its portability makes it suitable for travel, work lunches, or situations where cooking is not feasible, helping to ensure adequate nutrient intake even on the go.
BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil are typically consumed directly from the pouch, or added to salads and sandwiches. The convenience factor makes them a popular choice for quick meals or snacks. A common portion is the entire pouch, which aligns with the serving size.
Pair with fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to add fiber and additional vitamins, balancing the meal.
Serve over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to create a nutrient-dense salad.
Use as a protein topping for whole-grain crackers or toast, being mindful of the overall sodium intake.
Incorporate into a pasta dish with fresh herbs and a low-sodium tomato sauce to dilute the product's sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a relatively high amount of sodium at 619.72mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure or kidney concerns, should consume this product in moderation or choose lower-sodium alternatives. The ingredient list includes natural rosemary extractive and various other extracts and flavors, which contribute to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food. While generally safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific flavor compounds. There are no declared major allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg in this specific formulation.
BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It provides a good amount of protein and some Vitamin A, but its high sodium content and processed nature are factors to consider. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and alongside whole, unprocessed foods.
How does BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil compare to other canned fish brands?
Compared to other canned fish products like StarKist Tuna in Water, BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil has a similar protein content but a higher fat content due to the olive oil. Its sodium level is also a key differentiator. Always check the nutrition label, as sodium and added ingredients can vary significantly between brands and product lines.
What is 'sundried tomato flavor' in the ingredients?
The 'sundried tomato flavor' listed in the ingredients is a blend of corn oil, virgin olive oil, dehydrated tomato, tomato powder, natural flavor, and sundried tomato. This ingredient contributes to the product's taste profile but also adds to its processed food classification, as it's a formulated flavor rather than just whole sundried tomatoes.
How much of this product can I eat daily?
Given its 619.72mg of sodium per 100g, consuming the entire pouch (which is 1 serving) contributes significantly to your daily sodium intake. For most adults, it's advisable to limit sodium to under 2,300mg per day. Therefore, if you consume this product, balance it with low-sodium foods throughout the rest of your day.
Can I use this product in cooking?
Yes, BUMBLE BEE Sardines In Olive Oil can be used in cooking. It can be flaked into pasta sauces, mixed with scrambled eggs, or added to a warm grain bowl. When cooking, consider its inherent saltiness and adjust any added salt in your recipe accordingly to manage overall sodium levels.