BUSH'S BEST, GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA scores 43/100 (Poor) due primarily to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This product received a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating.
It provides 3.8g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily fiber intake.
A significant concern is the 437.69mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from a home-cooked black bean dish.
Consider this product as an occasional side dish rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -3 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.8g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
3.85g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
437.69mg
19% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (437.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
BUSH'S BEST, GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA receives a FoodScore of 43/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant -10 point penalty. This classification reflects the extensive processing and the presence of ingredients like modified corn starch, natural flavor, and autolyzed yeast, which are typically not found in home kitchens. While the product offers a notable 3.8g of fiber per 100g, earning a +4 bonus, this is offset by its high sodium content of 437.69mg per 100g, resulting in a -1 penalty. The product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat, which are positive aspects. However, the overall nutritional profile, including the lack of significant micronutrient contributions (0% DV for potassium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins D, B12, C, A, and folate), contributes to its lower score. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, BUSH'S BEST contains more processed components and higher sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bush's best, grillin' beans, black bean fiesta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 3.8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also contribute to feelings of fullness, which may assist with appetite management. While this product is processed, it still offers a convenient way to add some fiber to a meal.
Convenient Meal Component
BUSH'S BEST GRILLIN' BEANS offers a convenient and ready-to-eat option for busy individuals. As a prepared black bean product, it requires minimal preparation, making it a quick addition to meals when time is limited. This convenience can be beneficial for those who may not have the time or resources to prepare beans from scratch, ensuring a source of plant-based protein and fiber is accessible. It can serve as a base for a quick meal or a side dish.
Low in Saturated and Trans Fat
This product contains 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g, which aligns with dietary recommendations to limit these types of fats. A diet low in saturated and trans fats is associated with maintaining cardiovascular health. While the product does contain some total fat (0.77g), the absence of saturated and trans fats is a positive aspect of its nutritional profile. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their fat intake.
BUSH'S BEST, GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA scores 43/100 (Poor) due primarily to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
BUSH'S BEST, GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA is typically consumed as a side dish or an ingredient in larger meals. A common portion size is 0.5 cup, which is the declared serving size. It's often heated and served alongside grilled meats or as part of a Tex-Mex inspired dish. The convenience of preparation makes it a popular choice for quick meals.
To balance the sodium, pair with low-sodium or fresh ingredients like plain rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Consider using a smaller portion, such as a quarter cup, and supplementing with freshly cooked beans to reduce overall sodium intake.
Enhance the nutritional value by mixing with additional fresh bell peppers, onions, or cilantro to boost micronutrient content.
Use as a base for a quick vegetarian bowl by adding whole grains like quinoa and a variety of non-starchy vegetables.
If using as a main component, be mindful of other high-sodium foods in the meal to keep your daily sodium intake in check.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals sensitive to certain food additives should note the presence of modified corn starch, natural flavor, natural smoke flavor, autolyzed yeast, and torula yeast in BUSH'S BEST, GRILLIN' BEANS. These ingredients contribute to its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from certain thickeners or flavor enhancers. The product contains bacon fat and cooked bacon, as well as chicken fat and cooked chicken, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. The sodium content of 437.69mg per 100g is high, and individuals managing blood pressure or on sodium-restricted diets should consume this product in moderation and be aware of its contribution to their daily sodium intake. Calcium chloride is included as a firming agent.
Is BUSH'S BEST GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 43/100, which is considered 'Poor'. While it provides fiber and is low in saturated fat, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content are factors that lower its overall nutritional rating. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with less processed foods.
How does BUSH'S BEST GRILLIN' BEANS compare to other prepared beans?
Compared to a generic can of plain black beans, BUSH'S BEST GRILLIN' BEANS, BLACK BEAN FIESTA is more processed due to its additional ingredients and flavorings, placing it in the NOVA 4 category. A brand like Goya Canned Black Beans (low sodium) would typically have fewer ingredients and lower sodium, making it a less processed alternative. This product offers a distinct flavor profile but at the cost of higher processing and sodium.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
Natural flavor is a broad term used to describe flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. While the source is natural, the flavor itself is often highly processed in a lab to achieve a specific taste profile. Its presence contributes to the product's classification as ultra-processed, as it's not an ingredient typically found in a home kitchen.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 0.5 cup. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and calories. For some individuals, especially those monitoring sodium, a smaller portion might be more appropriate. Consider it as a flavorful side dish rather than a large component of your meal, and balance it with fresh, whole foods.
Can I reduce the sodium content of these beans?
Once the beans are prepared and packaged, the sodium content is fixed. You cannot significantly reduce the sodium in this specific product. However, you can mitigate the overall sodium impact of your meal by pairing these beans with low-sodium ingredients and cooking other components of your meal without added salt. Choosing a plain, low-sodium canned bean and seasoning it yourself would offer more control over sodium.