BUSH'S BEST BUSH'S Original Baked Beans 6 Pack-28 oz
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans score 37/100 (Poor) due primarily to their classification as an ultra-processed food and significant **added sugar** and sodium content.
This product has a FoodScore of 37/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A serving contains 3.8g of fiber, contributing to daily fiber intake.
With 6.46g of added sugar per 100g, this product is a source of concern.
As a NOVA 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, impacting its overall score.
Portion control is important due to the sodium content of 423.08mg per 100g.
Scores -9 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
6.46g
13% of Daily Value
Sodium
423.08mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.5g)-6
Sodium (423.1mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 37
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans receive a FoodScore of 37 out of 100, placing them in the poor category. This score is significantly impacted by several factors. The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a substantial -10 point penalty. A key nutritional concern is the added sugar content, at 6.46g per 100g, leading to a -6 point penalty. This comes from ingredients like Brown Sugar and Sugar listed early on. The sodium level is also notable, providing 423.08mg per 100g, which results in a -1 point penalty. On the positive side, the product does offer 3.8g of fiber per 100g, earning a +4 point bonus. However, the overall nutritional profile, particularly when compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, highlights the impact of processing and added ingredients like Caramel Color and Natural Flavor on its score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bush's best bush's original baked beans 6 pack-28 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans provide 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 help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management. This product can be a convenient way to add some fiber to a meal, especially when time for meal preparation is limited.
Convenient Meal Component
This product offers a convenient option for adding beans to a meal without extensive preparation. For individuals with busy schedules, having a ready-to-eat item like BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans can simplify meal planning and execution. While not a substitute for whole, unprocessed foods, it can serve as a quick side dish or an ingredient in a larger recipe, providing a source of plant-based protein and fiber with minimal effort.
Contains Plant-Based Protein
White beans are a natural source of plant-based protein, and this product provides 4.62g of protein per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for the production of enzymes and hormones. For those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet, or as a complement to other protein sources, these baked beans can contribute to meeting daily protein needs, supporting overall body function.
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans score 37/100 (Poor) due primarily to their classification as an ultra-processed food and significant added sugar and sodium content.
How to eat it
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans are typically consumed as a side dish, often alongside grilled meats, hot dogs, or sandwiches. They are a common component of barbecues and casual meals, usually served warm. A typical portion is 1/2 cup, which is the declared serving size.
To balance the meal, pair baked beans with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish and a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables.
Consider using a smaller portion of baked beans (e.g., 1/4 cup) to manage the intake of added sugar and sodium.
Incorporate baked beans into recipes like chili or stews, where their flavor can enhance the dish, but be mindful of the overall sodium content.
When serving, consider diluting the sauce slightly with water or unsalted broth to reduce the sodium concentration per bite.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans, which is 6.46g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for this when planning their meals. The product also contains 423.08mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount for those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. The ingredient list includes Modified Corn Starch and Natural Flavor, which are common in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of such ingredients. The presence of bacon means this product is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans receive a FoodScore of 37/100, which is considered poor. While they offer some fiber and plant-based protein, the product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and contains significant amounts of added sugar and sodium. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic home-cooked baked bean recipe made from scratch with whole ingredients, BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans will typically have higher levels of added sugar and sodium, and be classified as ultra-processed. Other brands like Heinz Baked Beans may have similar nutritional profiles, often varying slightly in sugar and sodium content. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
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 processing involved can be complex. In the context of an ultra-processed food, it contributes to the overall processing level and may contain various components not explicitly listed.
What is a reasonable portion size for these baked beans?
The declared serving size is 1/2 cup (130g). This portion provides 140 calories, 6g of protein, 5g of fiber, 8g of added sugar, and 550mg of sodium. To manage intake of added sugar and sodium, consider consuming a smaller portion, such as 1/4 cup, especially if you are eating other high-sodium or high-sugar foods in the same meal.
Can I reduce the sodium content of BUSH'S BEST Original Baked Beans?
While you cannot remove the sodium already present in the beans, you can mitigate its impact by pairing them with low-sodium foods in your meal. You could also drain and rinse the beans, though this may alter the flavor and texture significantly and is not typically done with baked beans. Opting for a low-sodium version of baked beans, if available, would be a more effective strategy.