LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF TENDER BRAISED BEEF WITH SNAP PEAS, BROCCOLI FLORETS & RED BELL PEPPERS IN A SWEET & SPICY SRIRACHA SAUCE, SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF
LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing a good source of protein and certain vitamins.
This LEAN CUISINE meal scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 7.08g of protein and is a good source of Vitamin A (39% DV) and Vitamin C (31% DV).
A significant concern is its NOVA class 4 rating, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains more additives and less diverse micronutrients.
Consider this a convenient option, but be mindful of its sodium content at 258.96mg per 100g.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.4g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
7.08g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
258.96mg
11% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its protein content, providing 7.08g per 100g, which contributes to satiety. It also offers meaningful amounts of certain micronutrients, specifically 39% DV for Vitamin A and 31% DV for Vitamin C per 100g, largely from the included vegetables like broccoli and red peppers. However, a significant detractor is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This classification leads to a penalty in its FoodScore, reflecting the presence of various modified ingredients such as modified cornstarch and modified food starch, as well as natural flavor. While the product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, it does list sugar and honey in its ingredients, suggesting that while not 'added' in the context of the nutrition label, these contribute to the overall sweetness. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this LEAN CUISINE meal contains a higher number of ingredients that have undergone industrial processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lean cuisine sweet sriracha braised beef tender braised beef with snap peas, broccoli florets & red bell peppers in a sweet & spicy sriracha sauce, sweet sriracha braised beef actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Contributes to Protein Intake
This LEAN CUISINE meal provides 7.08g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for feeling full after a meal. Including adequate protein in your diet supports various bodily functions. For individuals looking for a convenient way to increase their protein intake, this product offers a source of protein from beef.
Source of Vitamins A and C
LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF is a source of both Vitamin A and Vitamin C, providing 39% DV and 31% DV respectively per 100g. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production. The inclusion of vegetables like broccoli and red peppers contributes significantly to these vitamin levels, offering a nutritional benefit.
Convenient Meal Option
This product offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals. Its pre-portioned nature can help with calorie management for those monitoring their intake. While it is an ultra-processed food, it can serve as an occasional option when time for meal preparation is limited. The combination of beef and vegetables provides a balanced macronutrient profile for a single serving.
LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing a good source of protein and certain vitamins.
How to eat it
This LEAN CUISINE meal is designed for single-serving convenience, typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. It's a microwaveable option that can be ready in minutes, fitting into a busy schedule. The portion size is set, which can aid in calorie control.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this meal with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if consuming this meal, balance your other meals throughout the day with lower-sodium options.
While convenient, aim to incorporate whole, unprocessed foods into the majority of your diet to ensure a broader range of nutrients.
If you find the portion size insufficient, supplement with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts rather than consuming a second processed meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that LEAN CUISINE SWEET SRIRACHA BRAISED BEEF is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4). This means it contains several ingredients that have undergone significant industrial processing, such as modified cornstarch and modified food starch, which are used for texture and stability. The ingredient list also includes natural flavor, a broad term that can encompass various substances. While the product does not list common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, or soy as primary ingredients, it's always advisable to check the full label for cross-contamination warnings if you have severe allergies. The sodium content, at 258.96mg per 100g, is moderate, but individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should consider this in their daily allowance.
Is LEAN CUISINE Sweet Sriracha Braised Beef healthy?
This LEAN CUISINE meal scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers protein and some vitamins, but its classification as an ultra-processed food means it contains several industrially modified ingredients. While it can fit into a balanced diet occasionally, it is not a primary source of whole, unprocessed nutrients.
How does LEAN CUISINE compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as certain offerings from Healthy Choice, LEAN CUISINE Sweet Sriracha Braised Beef may have a similar nutritional profile in terms of convenience and processing level. However, specific nutrient content like sodium, protein, and fiber can vary significantly between individual products and brands. Always compare the nutrition labels directly.
What does 'modified cornstarch product' mean in the ingredients?
A 'modified cornstarch product' refers to cornstarch that has been chemically or physically altered to improve its functional properties, such as its ability to thicken, stabilize, or withstand freezing and thawing. It is commonly used in processed foods to achieve a desired texture and consistency in sauces and gravies.
What is a reasonable portion size for this meal?
The serving size for this product is one package, which is 255g. This provides 204 calories, 18g of protein, and 3.6g of fiber. This can be a reasonable portion for a single meal, especially if paired with additional fresh vegetables or a small side salad to increase overall nutrient density and satiety.
Can I eat LEAN CUISINE Sweet Sriracha Braised Beef every day?
While convenient, consuming ultra-processed foods like this LEAN CUISINE meal daily is generally not recommended as a primary dietary strategy. A diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods is typically associated with better long-term health outcomes. Consider incorporating a variety of fresh foods alongside occasional convenient options.