Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps 5 oz.
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps score 60/100 (Good) due to their notable fiber and protein content, though their ultra-processed nature and sodium levels are factors to consider.
This product has a FoodScore of 60/100, indicating a good nutritional profile for a snack.
A serving provides 20g of fiber and 23.3g of protein per 100g, contributing significantly to daily needs.
With 800mg of sodium per 100g, this product is high in sodium, a key penalty in its score.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, which impacts its overall nutritional quality compared to whole-food snacks.
Consider portion control due to the sodium content and calorie density (466.67 calories per 100g).
Scores +19 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
20g
71% of Daily Value
Protein
23.3g
47% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
800mg
35% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (20g)+12
Protein (23.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (800mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 60
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps achieve a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing them in the 'Good' category. This score is primarily driven by the product's substantial fiber and protein content. Per 100g, it provides 20g of fiber, earning a significant bonus of +12 points, and 23.3g of protein, contributing an additional +10 points. The presence of iron, at 3.6mg (20% DV), also adds a minor bonus of +2 points. However, the product faces penalties due to its sodium content, which is 800mg per 100g, resulting in a -4 point deduction. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring a -10 point penalty. The ingredient list includes maltodextrin, a common processing aid in such snacks. While it contains 0g of added sugar, the overall processing level and sodium are key factors. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, Kala Beautiful Beans Crisps offer a convenient source of protein and fiber but come with higher sodium and a more complex ingredient profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kala beautiful beans simply peppered bean crisps 5 oz. actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health with High Fiber
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps are an excellent source of dietary fiber, providing 20g per 100g. This significant fiber content can contribute to healthy digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting a balanced gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich snacks like this can help individuals meet their daily fiber recommendations, which are often unmet in typical American diets. The fiber in fava beans, the primary ingredient, is a key component in this benefit.
Contributes to Satiety and Muscle Maintenance
With 23.3g of protein per 100g, Kala Beautiful Beans Crisps offer a substantial protein boost. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, including muscle, and plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. The high protein content can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may be beneficial for managing appetite between meals. This makes the product a suitable option for those looking to increase their protein intake through snacks.
Provides a Source of Iron
This product contributes 3.6mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, regular consumption of snacks like these can help contribute to overall iron intake, especially for individuals who may struggle to meet their needs through other dietary sources. The iron content comes from the fava beans themselves.
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps score 60/100 (Good) due to their notable fiber and protein content, though their ultra-processed nature and sodium levels are factors to consider.
How to eat it
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps are typically consumed as a standalone snack. They offer a crunchy texture and savory flavor, making them a convenient option for quick hunger satisfaction. A common portion size is 1/3 cup, but it's important to be mindful of the sodium content.
Pair these crisps with a source of healthy fats or fresh vegetables, such as a small handful of unsalted nuts or carrot sticks, to create a more balanced snack.
Use them as a crunchy topping for salads or soups instead of traditional croutons to add fiber and protein.
Practice portion control by pre-portioning a serving into a small bowl to avoid overconsumption, especially given the sodium levels.
Consider these crisps as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to their ultra-processed nature and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the sodium content in Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps, which is 800mg 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 yeast extract, which can contribute to the savory flavor and umami, but also to the overall sodium content. While fava beans are generally well-tolerated, individuals with G6PD deficiency should avoid fava beans due to the risk of favism. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which means it contains ingredients like maltodextrin that are not typically found in home kitchens.
Is Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps healthy?
Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps score 60/100, indicating a 'Good' nutritional profile. They offer significant amounts of fiber (20g/100g) and protein (23.3g/100g), which are beneficial. However, they are also high in sodium (800mg/100g) and are considered ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), which can impact overall dietary quality. It's a better choice than many conventional chips, but moderation is key.
How does Kala Beautiful Beans compare to other bean-based snacks?
Compared to other bean-based snacks like Hippeas Chickpea Puffs, Kala Beautiful Beans Crisps offer a higher protein and fiber content per 100g. However, the sodium content in this product is also notably higher. While both are processed snacks, the specific nutrient profiles differ, making Kala Beautiful Beans a strong contender for fiber and protein but requiring attention to sodium intake.
What is maltodextrin in the ingredient list?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps, it likely contributes to the texture and acts as a carrier for flavors. While generally recognized as safe, it is a sign of a more processed food and can have a high glycemic index.
What is a reasonable portion size for these bean crisps?
The declared serving size is 1/3 cup. Given the calorie density (466.67 calories per 100g) and high sodium content (800mg per 100g), sticking to the recommended serving size is advisable. For a typical snack, this portion provides a good amount of fiber and protein without excessive sodium.
Can these crisps be part of a weight management diet?
Due to their high fiber and protein content, Kala Beautiful Beans Simply Peppered Bean Crisps can contribute to satiety, which may be helpful for weight management. However, their calorie density and sodium levels mean that portion control is crucial. Integrating them mindfully as part of a balanced diet, rather than as an unlimited snack, is recommended.