BUSH'S BEST BUSH'S Chili Beans Pinto Beans in a Mild Chili Sauce 4-16 oz cans
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans Pinto Beans in a Mild Chili Sauce scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
This product received a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 4.6g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to daily intake.
A significant concern is the 407.69mg of sodium per 100g serving.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike a home-cooked version.
This product can be a convenient option for adding beans to meals, but consider the sodium.
Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
4.6g
16% of Daily Value
Protein
4.62g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
407.69mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.6g)+5
−
What holds it back
Sodium (407.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans Pinto Beans in a Mild Chili Sauce achieved a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, which is considered poor. The primary factor contributing to this lower score is its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While it offers a positive contribution of 4.6g of fiber per 100g, earning +5 bonus points, this is largely offset by its high sodium content. With 407.69mg of sodium per 100g, it receives a -1 penalty. The ingredient list includes modified corn starch and corn oil, which are common in processed foods and contribute to its NOVA classification. There are no added sugars, which is a positive aspect. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product contains more additives and a higher sodium level, which impacts its overall nutritional quality. The convenience of a pre-seasoned product often comes with these trade-offs.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bush's best bush's chili beans pinto beans in a mild chili sauce 4-16 oz cans actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 4.6g 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 like beans in your diet may also help with satiety, potentially assisting with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness. While this is a processed product, the inherent fiber from the pinto beans remains a beneficial component.
Plant-Based Protein Contribution
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans offer 4.62g of protein per 100g, derived from the pinto beans. Plant-based protein sources are valuable for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, or those looking to reduce animal product consumption. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall bodily processes. Incorporating these beans can help meet daily protein needs as part of a balanced dietary pattern.
Convenient Meal Component
While not a whole food, this product offers significant convenience as a ready-to-eat bean option. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, having a pre-cooked and seasoned bean product can facilitate the inclusion of legumes in meals. Beans are a nutrient-dense food group, and this product makes it easier to add them to dishes like chili, tacos, or as a side, supporting a more varied diet even with time constraints.
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans Pinto Beans in a Mild Chili Sauce scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
How to eat it
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans are typically consumed as a component of larger meals, often heated and served directly from the can. A common portion is 1/2 cup, which can be added to chili, used as a side dish, or incorporated into casseroles. The mild chili sauce means they are already seasoned.
To reduce overall sodium intake, drain and rinse the beans before heating, though some flavor will be lost.
Combine with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to increase nutrient density and fiber.
Serve alongside a whole grain, such as brown rice or quinoa, to create a complete protein meal.
Use as a base for a quick vegetarian chili by adding extra vegetables and a lean protein source if desired.
Portion control is key; stick to the recommended 1/2 cup serving to manage sodium and calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans is its high sodium content, which is 407.69mg per 100g. Individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should be mindful of this and consider draining and rinsing the beans to reduce sodium, or opt for lower-sodium alternatives. The presence of modified corn starch and corn oil contributes to its ultra-processed classification. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients might prefer less processed options. This product does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg.
BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans Pinto Beans in a Mild Chili Sauce received a FoodScore of 44/100, which is considered poor. While it provides fiber and plant-based protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and alongside less processed foods.
How does BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans compare to other canned beans?
Compared to plain canned pinto beans, BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans contain added ingredients like modified corn starch, spices, and oils, and are pre-seasoned with a mild chili sauce. This makes them more processed and typically higher in sodium than unseasoned varieties. For example, a can of Goya plain pinto beans would likely have fewer ingredients and lower sodium if unsalted.
What is 'modified corn starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified corn starch is a food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. In BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans, it helps create the desired texture and consistency of the mild chili sauce. While generally safe for consumption, its presence contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for these chili beans?
The recommended serving size for BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans is 1/2 cup (130g). This portion provides 84.62 calories, 4.6g of fiber, and 407.69mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion can help manage your intake of sodium and calories, especially if you are combining it with other components in a meal.
Can I use these beans in vegetarian dishes?
Yes, BUSH'S BEST Chili Beans are suitable for vegetarian dishes as they are made from pinto beans and do not contain any meat products. They can be a convenient base for vegetarian chili, tacos, burritos, or as a side dish. Their pre-seasoned flavor can enhance the taste of plant-based meals.