MARIE CALLENDER'S SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN FRITTER IN A SWEET & SOUR GLAZE WITH VEGETABLES OVER RICE, SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN
MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter scores 36/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its notable content of added sugar.
This MARIE CALLENDER'S meal received a FoodScore of 36/100 (Poor).
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A significant concern is the 4.93g of added sugar per 100g.
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product has lower fiber and higher added sugar.
Consider this meal for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -11 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
4.28g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
4.93g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
267mg
12% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (4.9g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 36
The MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter meal receives a FoodScore of 36 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by two factors: its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) which incurs a 10-point penalty, and its content of added sugar. With 4.93g of added sugar per 100g, derived from ingredients like sugar and pineapple juice concentrate in the sweet & sour glaze, the product receives a 4-point penalty. While it contains some protein (4.28g per 100g) and a small amount of fiber (1g per 100g), these are not sufficient to offset the penalties. The sodium content at 267mg per 100g is moderate, and the saturated fat is low at 0.63g per 100g. However, the overall nutritional profile, particularly when compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, shows a lower density of beneficial micronutrients and a higher proportion of components like added sugars that are recommended for limited intake.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in marie callender's sweet & sour chicken fritter in a sweet & sour glaze with vegetables over rice, sweet & sour chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
This MARIE CALLENDER'S meal provides 139.04 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates and fats, which can contribute to your daily energy needs. For individuals requiring a quick source of fuel, this meal offers a convenient option. The combination of rice and chicken fritter delivers readily available energy, which can be useful when you need a fast caloric intake during a busy schedule.
Contains Some Protein
With 4.28g of protein per 100g, this product contributes to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as for various bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, it can be part of a meal that, when combined with other protein sources throughout the day, helps meet your nutritional requirements.
Convenient Meal Option
This MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals. As a frozen, ready-to-heat option, it requires minimal preparation time, making it suitable for situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. Its portability and ease of storage also contribute to its practicality as an occasional meal choice.
MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter scores 36/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its notable content of added sugar.
How to eat it
This frozen meal is typically consumed as a single-serving lunch or dinner. It's designed for convenience, offering a quick option when time for meal preparation is limited. Consumers often heat it in a microwave or oven.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this meal with a side salad or steamed non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of the portion size; the entire meal is considered one serving. If you are managing calorie intake, consider sharing or saving half for another meal.
To reduce the overall sodium and added sugar, you could supplement with plain rice and a separate, lower-sodium protein source, rather than relying solely on the glazed components.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the allergen information for MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter, which includes wheat, soy, milk, and egg. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of modified corn starch and other processed ingredients contributes to its ultra-processed classification. While generally safe for consumption, individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars, such as those with diabetes, should note the 4.93g of added sugar per 100g. The sodium content, at 267mg per 100g, is moderate, but those on sodium-restricted diets should factor this into their daily allowance.
Is MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter healthy?
This MARIE CALLENDER'S meal received a FoodScore of 36/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating. It is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains added sugar. While it provides some protein and calories, it is not considered a nutrient-dense option for regular consumption.
How does MARIE CALLENDER'S Sweet & Sour Chicken Fritter compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as certain Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice options, this MARIE CALLENDER'S meal may have a similar or higher amount of added sugar and be similarly ultra-processed. Its nutritional profile is generally less favorable than a homemade meal with whole grains, lean protein, and fresh vegetables.
What is 'sweet & sour glaze' in this product?
The 'sweet & sour glaze' is a key component of this meal, contributing significantly to its flavor and its added sugar content. Ingredients like sugar, pineapple juice concentrate, and rice vinegar are used to create the characteristic sweet and tangy profile, but also contribute to the 4.93g of added sugar per 100g.
What is a reasonable portion size for this meal?
The serving size for this product is one meal, which is the entire package. If you are monitoring calorie or carbohydrate intake, you might consider consuming half of the meal and supplementing with additional vegetables or a lean protein source to create a more balanced plate.
Can I eat this MARIE CALLENDER'S meal every day?
Due to its 'Poor' FoodScore of 36/100 and its classification as an ultra-processed food with added sugars, this meal is best consumed occasionally rather than as a daily staple. Prioritizing meals made with whole, unprocessed ingredients is generally recommended for optimal nutrition.