LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites score 42/100 (Poor) due to being an ultra-processed snack with notable sodium content, despite some fiber and protein.
This product provides 3.6g of fiber and 7.1g of protein per 100g.
A significant concern is the 821.43mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it differs from whole-food snack alternatives.
Consider these bites for occasional snacking rather than a daily staple.
Scores +1 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.6g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
821.43mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.6g)-2
Sodium (821.4mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites received a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, categorized as Poor. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant 10-point penalty. While the product does offer some positive nutritional aspects, such as 3.6g of fiber and 7.1g of protein per 100g, contributing 3 points each to its score, these are offset by other factors. The presence of 3.6g of added sugar per 100g results in a 2-point penalty. A more substantial penalty of 4 points is applied due to the high sodium content, at 821.43mg per 100g. Additionally, while iron contributes 2 points, the lack of other significant micronutrients like magnesium, zinc, and various vitamins means it doesn't gain further bonuses. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product contains ingredients like natural smoke flavor and powdered sugar that are not typically found in minimally processed options, contributing to its lower score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lundberg family farms smoky sweet bbq baked grain bites, smoky sweet bbq actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites provide 3.6g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not a primary source, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when combined with other fiber-rich foods throughout the day. Including fiber in snacks can help manage appetite between meals.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 7.1g of protein per 100g, LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in satiety. For a snack, this amount can help bridge the gap between meals, supporting overall protein intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet. It's a modest contribution, useful for those looking to add protein to their snack choices.
Source of Iron
This product provides 3.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Including iron-rich foods in your diet is important for preventing iron deficiency. While this snack contributes to iron intake, it should be part of a varied diet that includes other iron sources for optimal health.
LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites score 42/100 (Poor) due to being an ultra-processed snack with notable sodium content, despite some fiber and protein.
How to eat it
Baked grain bites like LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ are typically consumed as a standalone snack, often between meals or as part of a packed lunch. The serving size is 22 pieces, which is about 30g, so it's easy to overconsume if not mindful of portions.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair these bites with a source of healthy fats or fresh produce, such as sliced avocado or baby carrots.
Be mindful of the serving size (22 pieces) to manage sodium intake, as the product contains 821.43mg of sodium per 100g.
Consider using these as a crunchy topping for salads or soups instead of a standalone snack to integrate them into a more balanced meal.
For a more filling snack, combine a small portion with a protein source like a hard-boiled egg or a handful of nuts.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be aware of the 821.43mg of sodium per 100g in LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites. This level is relatively high for a snack item and could contribute significantly to daily sodium limits, especially for those with hypertension or cardiovascular concerns. The ingredient list includes powdered sugar and cane sugar, contributing to the added sugar content, which individuals managing blood sugar levels should consider. While no major allergens like milk, soy, or wheat are explicitly listed as primary ingredients, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating a higher degree of industrial processing.
Is LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites healthy?
LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites scored 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers some fiber and protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its notable sodium content contribute to a lower score. It's best considered an occasional snack rather than a staple for a health-focused diet.
How does LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites compare to other snack crackers?
Compared to many plain whole-grain crackers, LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites may have a similar fiber content but often higher sodium and added sugar due to its flavoring. For instance, a plain whole-wheat cracker like Triscuit Original contains less added sugar and sodium per serving. This product is more akin to flavored snack chips in its nutritional profile.
What is 'natural smoke flavor' in this product?
The 'natural smoke flavor' in LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites is a flavor additive derived from various sources, including wood smoke. It's used to impart a smoky taste without actual smoking. While considered natural, it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
How many LUNDBERG FAMILY FARMS Smoky Sweet BBQ Baked Grain Bites should I eat in a day?
The suggested serving size is 22 pieces, which is about 30g. Given the product's sodium and added sugar content, it's advisable to stick to this portion size or less, especially if you consume other processed foods throughout the day. Moderation is key for this ultra-processed snack.
Are these grain bites suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Based on the ingredient list, which includes brown rice flour, sorghum flour, and amaranth flour, this product appears to be made with gluten-free grains. However, if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, always look for explicit gluten-free certification on the packaging to ensure no cross-contamination occurred during processing.