FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentpreparedESSENTIAL EVERYDAY· 1 CONTAINER

ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT

ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and its sodium content.

  • This ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY chili scores 45/100, placing it in the Decent category.
  • It provides 3.29g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • A significant concern is the 282.35mg of sodium per 100g, which is moderate.
  • Compared to a home-cooked version, this product is more processed (NOVA 3 classification).
  • Consider pairing with fresh vegetables to enhance nutrient density.
  • Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
3.29g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.5g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
282.35mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 45

ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, indicating it is a Decent choice. This score is influenced by several factors, including its nutrient profile and processing level. Per 100g, it contains 60.94 calories, 3.29g of protein, and 1.2g of fiber, which are modest contributions to daily intake. The fat content is 2.35g total fat, with 0.94g of saturated fat, which is not excessively high. However, the product contains 282.35mg of sodium per 100g, which contributes significantly to the daily recommended limit. The ingredient list includes modified cornstarch and sugar, which are common in processed foods and contribute to its NOVA 3 classification. This classification incurs a 5-point penalty, reflecting its departure from a whole-food state. Compared to a home-cooked chili made with whole ingredients, this ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY product has a higher degree of processing and a less favorable micronutrient profile, with 0% DV for several key vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, B12, and Folate.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in essential everyday hot chili with beans, hot actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Convenient Protein Source

This chili offers 3.29g of protein per 100g, making it a convenient option for a quick meal or snack. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. While not a high-protein food, it can contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS can serve as a base for a more complete meal.

Source of Dietary Fiber

With 1.2g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. The beans in the chili are a natural source of this fiber. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can be a part of a fiber-rich diet when paired with other high-fiber foods like whole grains and vegetables.

Quick Meal Solution

ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS provides a ready-to-eat meal solution that requires minimal preparation. This can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules or those who need a quick option. Having convenient, shelf-stable meals available can help prevent skipping meals or opting for less nutritious fast food alternatives, supporting consistent eating patterns.

How to eat it

Chili is commonly consumed as a hearty meal, often served hot. This ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY product can be eaten directly from the container or heated. A typical portion size is one container, which can be a satisfying single serving.

Enhance the nutritional value by adding fresh vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach after heating.
Serve over a small portion of brown rice or quinoa to increase fiber and whole grain intake.
To manage sodium intake, consider diluting with a small amount of unsalted broth or water, and avoid adding extra salt.
Pair with a side salad to boost micronutrient intake and add freshness to the meal.
Things to keep in mind

The ingredient list for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS includes modified cornstarch, which is a common thickener in processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients might prefer to limit intake. The product also contains flavoring and chili flavor (oleoresin of paprika, natural flavorings), which are broad terms that can encompass various components; individuals with specific sensitivities to flavor compounds may wish to be aware. The sodium content of 282.35mg per 100g is moderate, but those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns should consume this product in moderation and balance it with low-sodium foods throughout the day. There are no major allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list beyond what might be inferred from 'beef' and 'beans', but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing.

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Reader questions
Is ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT healthy?
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT scores 45/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the Decent category. It offers some protein and fiber, but its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and moderate sodium content mean it's not a top-tier nutritional choice. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with whole foods.
How does ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY chili compare to a generic canned chili?
Compared to many generic canned chilis, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT has a similar profile in terms of processing and nutrient content. For example, a brand like Hormel Chili with Beans often has comparable sodium levels and is also a processed product. The key difference often lies in specific ingredient formulations and the balance of macros, which can vary slightly between brands.
What is 'flavoring' in the ingredient list?
The term 'flavoring' in the ingredient list refers to substances used to impart or modify flavor in food. These can be natural or artificial. The specific components are not disclosed on the label, which is common for proprietary blends. For most consumers, this is not a concern, but those with specific sensitivities might prefer products with more transparent ingredient lists.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chili?
The declared serving size for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT is one container. This typically represents a single meal portion. To ensure a balanced meal, consider adding fresh vegetables or a small side of whole grains to this portion rather than consuming multiple containers in one sitting, especially due to the sodium content.
Can I reduce the sodium content of this chili?
While you cannot remove sodium from the product itself, you can manage your overall sodium intake by pairing ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY HOT CHILI WITH BEANS, HOT with low-sodium foods. You could also try adding a small amount of unsalted broth or water to dilute it slightly, though this will also dilute the flavor. Always check the sodium content of other foods in your meal.

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