HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some beneficial fiber and Vitamin A.
This HEALTH VALLEY chili has a FoodScore of 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 2.9g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a departure from whole ingredients.
Sodium content is 191.84mg per 100g, which is moderate for a prepared chili.
This chili can be a convenient option when a home-cooked meal is not feasible.
Scores +3 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2.9g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
4.49g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
191.84mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.9g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 49
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI achieves a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent'. The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -5 points. While the ingredient list includes many organic whole foods like organic tomatoes, organic black beans, and organic onions, the presence of ingredients such as organic evaporated cane juice, organic corn starch, and natural flavors contributes to its processed status. Despite the 'organic' designation, these ingredients indicate a level of processing beyond a simple home-cooked black bean mole. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its fiber content, providing 2.9g per 100g, and for its Vitamin A content, which is 18% DV per 100g. The product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a favorable aspect, and its total fat content is low at 1.22g per 100g. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this HEALTH VALLEY product offers convenience but with a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley organic black bean mole, chili actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health with Fiber
This HEALTH VALLEY chili provides 2.9g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet, supporting digestive regularity and overall gut health. Including fiber-rich foods like this chili can help meet the recommended daily amounts, especially for individuals who may struggle to consume enough fruits, vegetables, and legumes. The fiber primarily comes from the organic black beans and other vegetable ingredients.
Source of Vitamin A
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI is a source of Vitamin A, contributing 18% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for several bodily functions, including maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and cell growth. The presence of organic tomatoes and organic bell peppers likely contributes to the Vitamin A content. This makes the chili a convenient way to incorporate a notable amount of this micronutrient into a meal.
Provides Plant-Based Protein
With 4.49g of protein per 100g, this chili offers a plant-based protein source. The protein primarily comes from the organic black beans and organic soy protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, enzyme production, and overall satiety. For individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, or those looking to reduce meat consumption, this product can be a useful component of a meal to help meet protein needs, especially when combined with other protein sources.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI scores 49/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some beneficial fiber and Vitamin A.
How to eat it
This HEALTH VALLEY chili is typically consumed as a quick meal or side dish. It can be heated on the stovetop or in the microwave. A common portion size is one cup, which is the declared serving size. It serves as a convenient option for lunch or dinner when time is limited.
To enhance the nutritional profile, serve this chili over a bed of whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.
Increase vegetable intake by stirring in fresh spinach or kale after heating, or topping with diced avocado.
For a more complete meal, pair with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add more micronutrients.
Consider using half a serving as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes to manage portion size and add variety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy as declared in the ingredient list (organic soy protein, organic soy sauce), which is a common allergen. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product. The sodium content, at 191.84mg per 100g, is moderate, but those monitoring sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be mindful of portion sizes, especially if combining with other high-sodium foods. The presence of natural flavors means the exact components are not disclosed, which some consumers prefer to avoid. Overall, for most healthy adults without soy allergies, this product does not present significant unique cautions beyond general recommendations for processed foods.
Is HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI healthy?
This HEALTH VALLEY chili scores 49/100, which is considered 'Decent'. It offers fiber and Vitamin A, and has no added sugar. However, it is a NOVA 3 processed food, meaning it has undergone significant processing. It can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with whole foods.
How does HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI compare to other chilis?
Compared to a home-cooked black bean chili made from scratch, this HEALTH VALLEY product is more processed (NOVA 3). When compared to other canned chilis like Amy's Organic Chili, it's important to check the specific nutrient facts for sodium, fiber, and added sugars, as these can vary significantly between brands and formulations.
What is 'organic evaporated cane juice' in this product?
Organic evaporated cane juice is a less refined form of sugar. While it is organic, it is still a form of added sugar, even though this specific product declares 0g added sugar per 100g. Its presence contributes to the product's NOVA 3 classification, indicating a level of processing.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chili?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (245g). This provides 201 calories, 11g of protein, and 7.1g of fiber. For most adults, this is a reasonable portion for a meal, especially when combined with other low-calorie, high-fiber foods to increase satiety and nutrient density.
Can this chili be stored after opening?
Yes, once opened, any unused portion of HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC BLACK BEAN MOLE, CHILI should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. It is generally recommended to consume it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. Freezing is also an option for longer storage.