ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS, HOMESTYLE scores 34/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **ultra-processed classification** and significant **added sugar** content.
This product scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A 100g serving contains 8.5g of added sugar, contributing to a significant penalty.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this SKU has higher sodium and added sugars.
Consider portion control due to the sodium (437.69mg) and added sugar content.
Scores -12 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.1g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
5.38g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
8.5g
17% of Daily Value
Sodium
437.69mg
19% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.1g)+3
Protein (5.4g)+1
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.5g)-9
Sodium (437.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 34
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS, HOMESTYLE receives a FoodScore of 34/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a substantial 10-point penalty. A significant factor is the added sugar content, with 8.5g per 100g, leading to a 9-point deduction. Ingredients like brown sugar and sugar are listed early, indicating their prevalence. The sodium content of 437.69mg per 100g also contributes a 1-point penalty. On the positive side, the product gains 3 points for its 3.1g of fiber and 1 point for 5.4g of protein per 100g. However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties, particularly when compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, which would typically contain less added sugar and sodium, and avoid the ultra-processed classification.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in essential everyday homestyle baked beans, homestyle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS provides 3.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also support feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 5.38g of protein per 100g, these baked beans offer a modest contribution to your daily protein needs. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as for various bodily functions. While not a primary protein source, it can complement other protein-rich foods in a meal.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS offers convenience for quick meals or side dishes. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this product can serve as an accessible option to include beans, which are generally recognized for their nutritional value. It can be easily heated and served, fitting into busy schedules.
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS, HOMESTYLE scores 34/100 (Poor) primarily due to its ultra-processed classification and significant added sugar content.
How to eat it
Baked beans are a common side dish in American cuisine, often served alongside grilled meats, hot dogs, or as part of a picnic spread. A typical portion is 1/2 cup. Given the added sugar and sodium content, it's important to consider how this product fits into your overall dietary pattern.
Pair with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish to create a more balanced meal.
Combine with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient density.
Use as a small side dish rather than a main component to help manage the sodium and added sugar intake.
Consider diluting with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth to reduce the intensity of the flavor and sodium per bite.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of brown sugar and sugar as primary sweeteners contributes significantly to the added sugar content, which individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should note. The ingredient list also includes 'natural flavor,' which is a broad term and can encompass various substances. For those with sensitivities, the 'contains 2% or less of: bacon' indicates a small amount of cured bacon, which includes sodium nitrite as a preservative. While generally recognized as safe in small amounts, some individuals prefer to limit nitrites. The product does not declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the label, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing environments.
Is ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS healthy?
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS scores 34/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and protein, its classification as ultra-processed and its high content of added sugar and sodium are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY compare to other baked beans brands?
Compared to other popular brands like Bush's Best Baked Beans, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOMESTYLE BAKED BEANS has a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable levels of added sugar and sodium. Many canned baked beans in the US market are classified as ultra-processed due to their ingredient formulations. Always check the nutrition facts panel 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. It's added to enhance taste. While derived from natural sources, the processing involved can be complex, and the specific components are not disclosed on the label, making it difficult to assess its exact composition or impact.
What is a recommended portion size for these baked beans?
The serving size is 1/2 cup. Given the sodium and added sugar content, sticking to this portion size is advisable, especially if you are monitoring your intake of these nutrients. Integrating it as a small side dish rather than a large component of your meal can help manage overall consumption.
Can I reduce the sodium content of these baked beans?
It is difficult to significantly reduce the sodium content of prepared baked beans. Rinsing canned beans is effective for plain beans, but for prepared baked beans, rinsing would wash away much of the flavor and sauce. Your best approach is portion control or seeking out lower-sodium baked bean options if sodium intake is a primary concern.