DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW scores 41/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as ultra-processed and its high sodium content.
DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW received a FoodScore of 41/100.
A single serving contains 419.07mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked beef stew, this product offers less fiber and more sodium.
It provides 94% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
Scores -5 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
4.24g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
419.07mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (419.1mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 41
DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW achieves a FoodScore of 41 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its ultra-processed nature, designated as NOVA class 4, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. Another major factor is the high sodium content, with 419.07mg per 100g, leading to a -1 point penalty. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of trans fat, it provides only 0.4g of fiber per 100g. A notable positive is its contribution of Vitamin A, providing 94% of the Daily Value per 100g, which earns a +2 bonus. Ingredients like textured vegetable protein (soy flour, caramel color) and disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate are indicators of its processed formulation. When compared to a home-cooked beef stew made with whole ingredients, DINTY MOORE's version typically contains higher sodium and a lower overall nutrient density, despite the Vitamin A content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in dinty moore, big bowls beef stew actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Source of Protein
This DINTY MOORE beef stew provides 4.24g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as various bodily functions. For individuals seeking a quick meal option, this product offers a readily available source of protein without requiring extensive preparation.
Significant Vitamin A Contribution
One of the key nutritional highlights of this product is its Vitamin A content, supplying 94% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. While this product is processed, its high Vitamin A content can help meet daily requirements for this important micronutrient, especially for those who may not regularly consume other rich sources.
Readily Available Meal Solution
For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW offers a convenient and shelf-stable meal option. Its ease of preparation makes it suitable for situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. While not a substitute for a balanced diet, it can serve as a quick meal during busy periods or when access to fresh ingredients is limited.
DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW scores 41/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as ultra-processed and its high sodium content.
How to eat it
DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW is typically consumed as a quick, single-serving meal. It's designed for convenience and ease of preparation, often heated in a microwave. Common pitfalls include consuming it as a standalone meal without additional nutrients.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider pairing this stew with a side salad or steamed non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Given the sodium content, balance your intake by choosing lower-sodium options for other meals throughout the day.
Consider using half a bowl as a base and adding fresh or frozen vegetables, like peas or green beans, to boost volume and nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains textured vegetable protein (soy flour), which means it is not suitable for individuals with a soy allergy. The high sodium content of 419.07mg per 100g should be noted, especially for individuals monitoring their sodium intake due to conditions like hypertension. While the ingredient list does not contain common artificial sweeteners or colors beyond caramel color, the presence of disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate indicates flavor enhancers. For individuals sensitive to highly processed foods, the NOVA 4 classification suggests a formulation with multiple processing steps and non-culinary ingredients.
DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW scores 41/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein and a significant amount of Vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content are factors to consider for overall dietary health. It is not considered a primary healthy food choice.
How does DINTY MOORE compare to other prepared stews?
Compared to a home-cooked beef stew using whole ingredients, DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW typically has a higher sodium content and lower fiber. When compared to other prepared stews like those from Campbell's Chunky, nutritional profiles can vary, but many fall into similar NOVA classifications and may also be high in sodium.
What is 'textured vegetable protein' in this stew?
Textured vegetable protein (TVP) in this stew is derived from soy flour and is used as a meat extender or substitute. It helps to add protein and texture to the product while potentially reducing the amount of actual beef needed. It's a common ingredient in many processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. While the entire bowl may be consumed, being mindful of the 419.07mg of sodium per 100g (which is approximately 1 cup) is important. For some, a smaller portion combined with fresh vegetables might be a more balanced approach.
Can I add vegetables to DINTY MOORE, BIG BOWLS BEEF STEW?
Yes, adding fresh or frozen vegetables like peas, corn, green beans, or extra carrots can significantly improve the fiber and micronutrient content of the meal. This can help to make the stew a more complete and balanced option, offsetting some of its processed nature.