HEALTHY CHOICE, STEAMING ENTREES, ROSEMARY CHICKEN & SWEET POTATOES scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** despite some beneficial micronutrients.
This HEALTHY CHOICE entree scores 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a notable amount of Vitamin A (218% DV) and Vitamin B12 (10% DV).
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to plain water, this product offers calories and nutrients, but also sodium (196.08mg/100g).
This single-serving meal can be a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Scores +13 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
4.71g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
196.08mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
The HEALTHY CHOICE, STEAMING ENTREES, ROSEMARY CHICKEN & SWEET POTATOES receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100. This 'Decent' score reflects a balance of some nutritional positives and the impact of its processing. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its fiber content, providing 2g per 100g, and for its micronutrient profile, specifically high amounts of Vitamin A (218% DV) and a good source of Vitamin B12 (10% DV). However, a significant penalty of 10 points is applied because it falls into NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This classification is due to the presence of ingredients like soy protein product, modified food starch, and various flavorings, which are common in highly processed convenience meals. While the product has 0g of added sugar and a low total fat content (0.98g/100g), the overall formulation and ingredient list contribute to its ultra-processed status. Compared to plain water, which serves as a baseline for hydration without nutrients, this entree provides calories and a range of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it a more substantial food item.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in healthy choice, steaming entrees, rosemary chicken & sweet potatoes actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This HEALTHY CHOICE entree is an excellent source of Vitamin A, providing 218% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. The sweet potatoes in the recipe likely contribute significantly to this high Vitamin A content. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can help meet daily requirements for this essential nutrient, particularly for individuals who may not regularly consume other rich sources like carrots, spinach, or liver.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 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, which can be beneficial for weight management. The fiber in this entree likely comes from the cooked sweet potatoes and yellow carrots. While not a very high-fiber food, it offers a modest amount that can be part of a balanced diet when combined with other fiber-rich foods throughout the day.
Provides Protein
This entree offers 4.71g of protein per 100g, primarily from the chicken tenderloins. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall satiety. While this amount of protein is moderate, it contributes to the overall protein content of a meal. For individuals looking for convenient meal options that include a protein source, this product can fit into a varied dietary pattern.
HEALTHY CHOICE, STEAMING ENTREES, ROSEMARY CHICKEN & SWEET POTATOES scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature despite some beneficial micronutrients.
How to eat it
This HEALTHY CHOICE entree is designed as a single-serving, ready-to-heat meal, commonly consumed for lunch or dinner. It offers a convenient option for individuals seeking a quick meal without extensive preparation. The portion size is intended to be consumed entirely.
Consider pairing this entree with a side salad or steamed non-starchy vegetables to increase overall vegetable intake and fiber.
To manage sodium intake, balance this meal with other foods that are naturally low in sodium throughout the day.
If you find the portion size insufficient, supplement with a piece of fruit or a small handful of unsalted nuts for additional nutrients and satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed. While generally safe for consumption, ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients like modified food starch, carrageenan, and various flavorings, which some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet. The ingredient list also includes soy protein product and dried whey, indicating the presence of common allergens: soy and milk. Individuals with allergies to soy or milk should avoid this product. For those sensitive to specific food additives, reviewing the full ingredient list, including 'flavorings' and 'caramel color', is advisable. The sodium content, at 196.08mg per 100g, is moderate, but individuals monitoring sodium intake should be mindful of this when consuming the entire meal.
HEALTHY CHOICE, STEAMING ENTREES, ROSEMARY CHICKEN & SWEET POTATOES scores 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides beneficial nutrients like Vitamin A and protein, but its classification as an ultra-processed food means it contains ingredients that are typically not found in a home kitchen. While it can fit into a balanced diet, it's not considered a whole, unprocessed food.
How does HEALTHY CHOICE compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as certain Lean Cuisine entrees, this HEALTHY CHOICE product offers a similar level of convenience and often a comparable nutritional profile. The specific score of 45/100 for this entree indicates it's a decent option, but individual products vary widely in terms of sodium, fiber, and processing level. Always compare the Nutrition Facts label and ingredient list when choosing.
What is 'soy protein product' in the ingredients?
The 'soy protein product' listed in the ingredients is a processed form of soy protein. It's often used in processed foods to enhance protein content, improve texture, or act as a binder. In this HEALTHY CHOICE entree, it's part of the chicken tenderloin preparation, indicating a more complex food matrix than plain chicken.
What is a reasonable portion size for this entree?
This product is packaged as a single '1 MEAL' serving, meaning the entire contents are intended to be consumed as one portion. The nutritional values provided are per 100g, but the total meal will have higher amounts. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of fresh vegetables or a piece of fruit to increase nutrient density.
Can I eat this HEALTHY CHOICE entree every day?
While this entree provides some nutrients, regularly consuming ultra-processed foods as a primary part of your diet may not align with dietary guidelines that emphasize whole, minimally processed foods. It's best to incorporate a variety of foods into your diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, rather than relying solely on convenience meals.