HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS receives a FoodScore of 27/100 (Avoid), primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as a processed food.
HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS scores 27/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
This product contains 400.81mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty.
The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts, significantly impacts the score negatively.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it differs from a home-cooked chili made with whole ingredients.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -19 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2.8g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
5.26g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
400.81mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.8g)+2
Protein (5.3g)+1
−
What holds it back
Sodium (400.8mg)-1
Trans fat present-20
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 27
HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS earns a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is influenced by several factors, with significant penalties outweighing modest bonuses. The product receives a bonus of +2 for its 2.8g of fiber and +1 for its 5.3g of protein per 100g, both of which are beneficial nutrients. However, these are offset by substantial penalties. A penalty of -1 is applied due to the high sodium content of 400.81mg per 100g, which is a common concern in many prepared foods. The most significant deduction comes from the presence of trans fat, resulting in a -20 penalty. Although the amount is small (0.2g per 100g), any detectable amount of trans fat is penalized due to its established health risks. Additionally, HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS is classified as a NOVA 3 processed food, incurring a -5 penalty. This classification indicates that it contains ingredients like modified cornstarch and flavoring, which are typically found in industrially processed foods, differentiating it from a home-cooked chili made from whole, unprocessed ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hardy jacks chili with beans actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Dietary Fiber
HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS offers 2.8g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can still play a role in meeting the recommended daily fiber intake when combined with other fiber-rich foods throughout the day. The beans are a primary source of this fiber.
Source of Protein
With 5.26g of protein per 100g, HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS contributes to your protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it also plays a role in satiety. The combination of beef, pork, and beans provides a source of protein, which can be beneficial for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially in a convenient meal option.
Convenient Meal Option
This product offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals. When time is limited, having a ready-to-eat option like chili can help prevent skipping meals or opting for less nutritious fast food. While it is a processed food, its ease of preparation makes it a practical choice for occasional use, fitting into a varied diet when other options are not available.
HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS receives a FoodScore of 27/100 (Avoid), primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Chili with beans is typically consumed as a main dish, often heated and served directly from the can. It's a common choice for a quick lunch or dinner, especially when looking for a warm, hearty meal. Portions often range from one to two cups.
To enhance the nutritional profile, serve HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS over a bed of whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.
Increase vegetable intake by stirring in fresh or frozen vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or corn during heating.
Balance the meal by pairing it with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add more vitamins and fiber.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the sodium content in HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS, which is 400.81mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list also includes modified cornstarch and various flavorings, which are common in processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of such ingredients. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts, is a concern for cardiovascular health. There are no declared common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS scores 27/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as a processed food. While it offers some protein and fiber, its nutritional profile suggests it's best consumed occasionally rather than as a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS compare to other canned chilis?
Compared to many other canned chilis, HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS may have a similar nutritional profile in terms of sodium and processing. For instance, a brand like Campbell's Chunky Chili might also contain significant sodium and be classified as processed. Consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel for specific brands to compare sodium, fat, and fiber content.
What is 'flavoring' in the ingredient list?
The term 'flavoring' in the ingredient list, along with 'natural flavorings' and 'chili flavor (oleoresin of paprika, natural flavorings)', refers to substances added to impart or enhance taste. These are often complex mixtures of chemicals, which can be derived from natural sources. While they contribute to the product's taste, they do not offer nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chili?
The declared serving size for HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage intake of sodium and fat. If consuming a larger portion, be mindful that the nutrient values, including sodium, will increase proportionally.
Can I reduce the sodium content of this chili?
Once prepared, the sodium content of HARDY JACKS CHILI WITH BEANS cannot be significantly reduced. However, you can balance your overall meal by pairing it with low-sodium foods. Adding fresh, unsalted vegetables or serving it with plain rice can help dilute the sodium impact of the meal as a whole.