Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter 52.5 oz
Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter 52.5 oz receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product has a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A 1/2 cup serving provides 300mg of sodium, contributing to daily intake.
It offers 3.8g of fiber per 100g, a positive nutrient contribution.
Consider this product as a convenient base, but supplement with whole ingredients.
Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.8g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
4.62g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
300mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter 52.5 oz scores 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification incurs a 10-point penalty, reflecting that such foods often contain ingredients and processing methods that detract from overall dietary quality compared to less processed options. On the positive side, the product does provide 3.8g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a 4-point bonus to its score. However, its macronutrient profile, with 92.31 calories and 300mg of sodium per 100g, along with a limited range of micronutrients like 7% DV for potassium and 8% DV for iron, does not significantly boost its score. The ingredient list includes Modified Corn Starch, a common thickener in processed foods. Compared to a home-cooked chili starter made with whole ingredients, this product contains more processed components and offers less nutritional density in terms of diverse micronutrients, despite its fiber content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bush brothers and bush's best chili starter 52.5 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This chili starter provides 3.8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also support feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite. While this product offers fiber, it is best to consume a variety of fiber sources from whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains for a broader range of nutrients.
Convenient Meal Base
Bush Brothers And Company's chili starter offers a convenient option for quick meal preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking from scratch, this product can serve as a base to build a meal around. Its pre-prepared nature reduces cooking steps, allowing for a faster assembly of chili or other bean-based dishes. This convenience can be particularly useful on busy weeknights, helping to ensure a meal is prepared rather than opting for less nutritious fast-food alternatives.
Contains Plant-Based Protein
The prepared pinto beans in this chili starter contribute 4.62g of protein per 100g. Plant-based protein sources like beans are valuable for supporting muscle maintenance and repair, and they can be a key component of a vegetarian or vegan diet. Incorporating this product can help meet protein needs, especially when combined with other protein sources throughout the day. The protein from beans also comes with the added benefit of fiber.
Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter 52.5 oz receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This chili starter is typically used as a foundational ingredient for making chili, often combined with ground meat or plant-based alternatives, and other vegetables. A common portion is 1/2 cup, which can be part of a larger meal.
To enhance the nutritional value, add plenty of fresh or frozen vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and diced tomatoes.
Consider pairing with a lean protein source like ground turkey or lentils to create a more balanced and filling meal.
Be mindful of the sodium content; avoid adding extra salt to your chili when using this starter.
Serve your chili with a side of whole grains like brown rice or a whole wheat tortilla for additional fiber and nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which generally indicates a higher degree of industrial processing and the inclusion of ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. While the ingredient list does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or common allergens like milk or soy, it does include Modified Corn Starch. Individuals sensitive to highly processed foods or those aiming for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed ingredients may wish to limit their intake. The sodium content of 300mg per 100g should also be considered, especially for individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management. There are no specific interactions or cross-contamination risks declared that would warrant unique caution for most populations.
Is Bush Brothers And Company BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter healthy?
Bush Brothers And Company BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter has a FoodScore of 44/100, rated as 'Poor.' While it offers some fiber and plant-based protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and moderate sodium content contribute to its lower score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and supplemented with whole, unprocessed ingredients.
How does Bush Brothers And Company BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter compare to other chili starters?
Compared to a homemade chili starter using whole ingredients, Bush Brothers And Company's product is more processed and contains ingredients like Modified Corn Starch. When compared to other canned chili starters, such as those from Campbell's or store brands, its nutritional profile can vary. Always check the nutrition facts and ingredient list of specific products for a direct comparison, focusing on sodium, fiber, and added sugars.
What is Modified Corn Starch and why is it in this product?
Modified Corn Starch is a food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. In Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter, it likely contributes to the desired texture and consistency of the product. While generally recognized as safe, it is an indicator of a more processed food item.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chili starter?
The declared serving size for Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter is 1/2 cup. This portion provides 92.31 calories and 300mg of sodium. When incorporating it into a meal, consider this amount and adjust other ingredients to manage overall calorie and sodium intake, especially if you are watching your daily limits.
Can this chili starter be used in vegetarian or vegan meals?
Yes, Bush Brothers And BUSH'S BEST Chili Starter is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets as its ingredients are plant-based. It contains prepared pinto beans, which are a good source of plant protein and fiber. It can serve as a convenient base for a meatless chili or other plant-forward dishes.