LIGHTLIFE CHICKPEA CURRY scores 54/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its notable fiber content and beneficial Vitamin A, balanced against its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
This LIGHTLIFE product earns a FoodScore of 54/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A significant strength is its high fiber content, providing 6.61g per 100g.
The primary nutritional concern is its sodium level, at 360.79mg per 100g.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it contains more processed ingredients than a home-cooked alternative.
This prepared meal offers a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Scores +8 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
6.61g
24% of Daily Value
Protein
4.85g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
360.79mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.6g)+8
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (360.8mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 54
LIGHTLIFE CHICKPEA CURRY receives a FoodScore of 54 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it earns 8 bonus points for its substantial fiber content, delivering 6.61g per 100g, which is a notable amount for a prepared meal. It also gains 2 bonus points for its Vitamin A content, contributing 61% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, the product incurs penalties. It loses 1 point due to its sodium level of 360.79mg per 100g, which is moderate but contributes to overall daily intake. A more significant penalty of 5 points is applied because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food with several ingredients like expeller pressed canola oil, corn starch, and various flavorings that are not typically found in a simple home-cooked chickpea curry. While the product contains no added sugar, which is a positive aspect, its overall ingredient complexity and sodium level prevent it from achieving a higher score compared to a version prepared from whole ingredients at home.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lightlife chickpea curry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health with High Fiber
This LIGHTLIFE Chickpea Curry is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 6.61g per 100g. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements, and contributing to satiety. The garbanzo beans are a primary contributor to this fiber content. Including fiber-rich foods like this can help manage appetite and support overall gut health as part of a balanced diet.
Contributes to Vitamin A Intake
The product provides 61% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g, making it a significant source of this essential micronutrient. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of organic kale and organic paprika in the ingredient list likely contributes to this high Vitamin A content, offering a convenient way to boost your intake.
Offers a Plant-Based Protein Source
With 4.85g of protein per 100g, this chickpea curry contributes to your daily protein needs. Chickpeas are a complete plant-based protein source when combined with grains like the brown rice in this product, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. This makes it a suitable option for individuals seeking to incorporate more plant-forward meals into their diet.
LIGHTLIFE CHICKPEA CURRY scores 54/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its notable fiber content and beneficial Vitamin A, balanced against its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
This prepared chickpea curry is typically consumed as a quick and convenient meal, either for lunch or dinner. It's designed for single servings and can be easily heated in a microwave or on the stovetop. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional profile in the context of your overall daily intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this curry with a side salad made with fresh, non-starchy vegetables.
If you find the sodium content a concern, balance your meal by adding unsalted steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
For a more substantial meal, you could add extra lean protein such as grilled chicken or tofu to complement the chickpeas.
Be mindful of the portion size; consuming the entire bowl as a single meal is typical, but adjust based on your individual caloric needs.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soybeans as an allergen due to the gluten free tamari soy sauce. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes organic coconut milk, which is a tree nut, so those with coconut allergies should be aware. The product is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which means it contains ingredients like corn starch and expeller pressed canola oil that are not typically found in a whole-food, home-cooked meal. While generally safe for most adults, individuals monitoring their sodium intake should consider the 360.79mg per 100g when planning their daily meals.
Is LIGHTLIFE Chickpea Curry a healthy meal option?
LIGHTLIFE Chickpea Curry scores 54/100, which is considered 'Decent' on FoodScore. It offers good fiber (6.61g/100g) and Vitamin A (61% DV/100g) but is a NOVA 3 processed food with moderate sodium. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented with other whole foods.
How does LIGHTLIFE Chickpea Curry compare to other prepared meals?
Compared to many other prepared meals in the frozen or shelf-stable category, such as certain Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice options, LIGHTLIFE Chickpea Curry stands out with its higher fiber content and no added sugars. However, its sodium level is comparable to many competitors, and its NOVA 3 classification means it's still a processed food.
What is 'expeller pressed canola oil' and is it healthy?
Expeller pressed canola oil is a type of canola oil extracted mechanically without the use of chemical solvents. Canola oil is generally considered a heart-healthy oil due to its low saturated fat content and high monounsaturated fats. However, it is still a refined oil, and its presence contributes to the product's NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
How much of this curry can I eat daily?
A single serving is 1 bowl. While it offers good nutrients like fiber and Vitamin A, it also contributes 360.79mg of sodium per 100g. To maintain a balanced daily sodium intake and ensure dietary variety, it's advisable to consume this product as part of a varied diet, not as a sole daily meal.
Can this product be frozen for later consumption?
The manufacturer's instructions should be consulted for specific freezing guidance. Generally, prepared meals like this are designed for a specific shelf life. Freezing and thawing can sometimes affect the texture and quality of ingredients like brown rice and vegetables, so it's best to follow the package recommendations.