FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorbeverageGARDEIN· 1 bowl

GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F MADE WITH RICE, PLANT-BASED BE'F BITES, RED BELL PEPPERS, CAULIFLOWER, WATER CHESTNUTS AND EDAMAME WITH A SWEET AND SPICY ORANGE SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE BE'F

GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F scores 37/100 (Poor) due to its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food and its added sugar content.

  • GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F scores 37/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • This product contains 5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a lower score.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food.
  • With 339.83mg of sodium per 100g, it is a moderate source of sodium.
  • Consider this product as an occasional convenience meal rather than a dietary staple.
  • Scores +5 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
5.81g
12% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
339.83mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.8g)+1
What holds it back
Added sugar (5g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 37

GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F receives a FoodScore of 37 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. This classification reflects the presence of ingredients like methylcellulose and yeast extract, which are indicative of extensive industrial processing. The product also contains 5g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a -4 point penalty. While it offers 5.81g of protein per 100g, earning a +1 bonus, this is not enough to offset the penalties. The fiber content is low at 1.2g per 100g, and micronutrient contributions are minimal, with 0% DV for Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. Compared to a reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this GARDEIN product provides calories and some macronutrients but also significant added sugar and sodium, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in gardein orange be'f made with rice, plant-based be'f bites, red bell peppers, cauliflower, water chestnuts and edamame with a sweet and spicy orange sauce bowl, orange be'f actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Source of Plant-Based Protein

This GARDEIN product provides 5.81g of protein per 100g, primarily from vital wheat gluten and soy protein isolate. For individuals following a plant-based diet, this can contribute to their daily protein intake, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair. While not exceptionally high, it offers a convenient way to include a protein source in a meal, especially when other plant-based protein options might not be readily available.

Contains Some Vegetables

GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F includes red bell peppers, cauliflower, water chestnuts, and edamame. These vegetables contribute some fiber and micronutrients, though the amounts are not explicitly detailed for all. Incorporating a variety of vegetables, even in smaller quantities, can help increase overall dietary diversity. However, the overall nutritional contribution from these vegetables is limited within the context of the entire dish, which is ultra-processed.

Convenient Meal Option

For those with limited time for meal preparation, this product offers a quick and easy meal solution. Its ready-to-heat format can be beneficial for busy individuals or situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. While convenience is a practical benefit, it's important to balance such options with more whole, minimally processed foods in the diet to ensure comprehensive nutrient intake.

How to eat it

This GARDEIN bowl is typically consumed as a single-serving meal, often for lunch or dinner, due to its convenience. It is designed to be heated and eaten directly from the bowl. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional density within the context of your overall daily intake.

To enhance the fiber and micronutrient content, consider adding fresh or steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Pair this bowl with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to increase your vegetable intake and overall meal volume.
Be mindful of the portion size; the entire bowl constitutes one serving, and consuming multiple bowls would significantly increase intake of added sugar and sodium.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains soybeans and wheat, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes methylcellulose, a common food additive used as an emulsifier and thickener in many processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to such additives. The sodium content of 339.83mg per 100g is moderate, but for those monitoring their sodium intake, especially individuals with hypertension, it's important to factor this into their daily allowance. The added sugar content should also be noted by individuals managing blood sugar levels.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER
Score82
Very good
LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW
Score82
Very good
WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER
Score82
Very good
GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT
Score80
Very good
INCA'S GOLD YELLOW MACA ORGANIC GELATINIZED POWDER, YELLOW MACA
Score80
Very good
VEGA DRINK MIX, MINT LEMONADE
Score79
Reader questions
Is GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F healthy?
GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F scores 37/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its content of added sugars. While it offers some protein and vegetables, it is not a nutritionally dense food for regular consumption.
How does GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F compare to a homemade plant-based stir-fry?
Compared to a homemade plant-based stir-fry, GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F is likely to have higher levels of added sugar and sodium, and a lower overall nutrient density. A homemade meal allows for control over ingredients, typically resulting in more whole foods and fewer additives. For example, a homemade stir-fry might use fresh ginger and garlic instead of ginger puree and garlic powder, and less added sugar than the sugar and light brown sugar found here.
What is vital wheat gluten, and is it a concern?
Vital wheat gluten is a natural protein found in wheat, used here to provide the 'be'f' texture. It is a common ingredient in plant-based meat alternatives. For individuals without celiac disease or a wheat allergy, it is generally not a concern. However, those with gluten sensitivities or allergies should avoid this product.
How much of this product can I eat daily?
Given its 'Poor' FoodScore and its classification as an ultra-processed food, this product is best consumed in moderation. It is not designed to be a daily staple. For optimal health, prioritize meals made with whole, minimally processed ingredients.
Does this product contain artificial colors or flavors?
The ingredient list for GARDEIN ORANGE BE'F does not explicitly declare artificial colors or flavors. However, it does contain ingredients like yeast extract and fruit puree, which can contribute to flavor. Always check the full ingredient list if you are trying to avoid specific additives.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll Gardein SKUs Competitor · 61/100CAPE COD SELECT, CRANBERRIES PLUS APPLES Competitor · 61/100CAPRI SUN APPLE FLAVORED FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE DRINK FROM CONCENTRATE, APPLE Head-to-headGARDEIN ORANGE BE'F MADE WITH RICE, PLANT-BASED BE'F BITES, RED BELL PEPPERS, CAULIFLOWER, WATER CHESTNUTS AND EDAMAME WITH A SWEET AND SPICY ORANGE SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE BE'F vs. CAPE COD SELECT, CRANBERRIES PLUS APPLES Head-to-headGARDEIN ORANGE BE'F MADE WITH RICE, PLANT-BASED BE'F BITES, RED BELL PEPPERS, CAULIFLOWER, WATER CHESTNUTS AND EDAMAME WITH A SWEET AND SPICY ORANGE SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE BE'F vs. CAPRI SUN APPLE FLAVORED FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE DRINK FROM CONCENTRATE, APPLE Head-to-headGARDEIN ORANGE BE'F MADE WITH RICE, PLANT-BASED BE'F BITES, RED BELL PEPPERS, CAULIFLOWER, WATER CHESTNUTS AND EDAMAME WITH A SWEET AND SPICY ORANGE SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE BE'F vs. CAPRI SUN FRUIT PUNCH FLAVORED FRUIT & VEGETABLE JUICE DRINK FROM CONCENTRATE, FRUIT PUNCH Head-to-headGARDEIN ORANGE BE'F MADE WITH RICE, PLANT-BASED BE'F BITES, RED BELL PEPPERS, CAULIFLOWER, WATER CHESTNUTS AND EDAMAME WITH A SWEET AND SPICY ORANGE SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE BE'F vs. CLIF MINT CHOCOLATE CHIP PROTEIN BAR, MINT CHOCOLATE CHIP

Data & references