MORNINGSTAR FARMS SOUTHWEST SUNRISE A SPICY BLACK BEAN AND EGG PATTY WITH POTATOES AND PEPPER JACK CHEESE ON AN ENGLISH MUFFIN THIN MADE WITH WHOLE GRAIN BREAKFAST SANDWICHES, SOUTHWEST SUNRISE
The MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 51/100 (Decent), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Provides 12.6g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High sodium content at 726.32mg per 100g is a primary nutritional concern.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), similar to many frozen breakfast items.
Consider pairing with fresh fruit to enhance overall meal nutrition.
Scores +18 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
4.2g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
12.63g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
726.32mg
32% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.2g)+4
Protein (12.6g)+8
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (726.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 51
The MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich receives a FoodScore of 51/100, 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 12.6g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also contains 4.2g of fiber per 100g, a beneficial amount that supports digestive health. Additionally, the presence of 157.89mg of calcium per 100g contributes a small bonus. However, significant penalties are incurred due to its high sodium content of 726.32mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a single serving. The product's classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, also results in a penalty. Ingredients like corn oil and natural and artificial flavor are common in ultra-processed foods. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has a simpler ingredient profile and lower sodium, this breakfast sandwich presents a more complex nutritional picture.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in morningstar farms southwest sunrise a spicy black bean and egg patty with potatoes and pepper jack cheese on an english muffin thin made with whole grain breakfast sandwiches, southwest sunrise actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This MORNINGSTAR FARMS breakfast sandwich provides 12.6g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a role in muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to feelings of fullness. Including adequate protein at breakfast can help manage hunger throughout the morning. The protein in this product comes from sources such as whole eggs and soy protein concentrate.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 4.2g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content is likely derived from ingredients like cooked black beans, whole wheat flour in the English muffin, and bulgur wheat.
Provides Calcium
The sandwich offers 157.89mg of calcium per 100g, which is 12% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a crucial mineral known for its role in bone health and maintaining strong teeth. It also supports nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily calcium needs, especially when combined with other calcium-rich foods.
The MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
The MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich is designed for a quick and convenient breakfast. It is typically consumed as a single serving, heated in a microwave or oven. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional profile in the context of your overall daily intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your sandwich with a side of fresh fruit like berries or an apple for added vitamins and fiber.
Consider adding a handful of spinach or other greens to your plate to increase vegetable intake with your meal.
If sodium intake is a concern, balance this meal with low-sodium options for the rest of your day.
To manage portion sizes and sodium, you could occasionally split one sandwich and pair it with a larger portion of vegetables or a plain yogurt.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including eggs, wheat, milk, and soy, as declared on the ingredient list. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The high sodium content of 726.32mg per 100g is a significant consideration, particularly for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. While the ingredient list includes various vegetables, it also contains natural and artificial flavor, which is common in ultra-processed foods and may be a concern for some consumers seeking less processed options.
Is MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich healthy?
The MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise Breakfast Sandwich scores 51/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile. It offers protein and fiber, but its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It's not a primary source of many micronutrients.
How does MORNINGSTAR FARMS compare to other frozen breakfast sandwiches?
Compared to many other frozen breakfast sandwiches, such as those from Jimmy Dean, the MORNINGSTAR FARMS Southwest Sunrise sandwich offers a similar convenience factor. Its nutritional profile, particularly in terms of protein and fiber, can be comparable or slightly better than some meat-based options, but it often shares the common challenge of high sodium content found in many processed breakfast items.
What does 'ultra-processed' mean for this product?
The NOVA 4 classification means this product is ultra-processed. This category includes foods made with multiple industrial ingredients and processes, often containing additives like corn oil, soy protein concentrate, and various flavors. While convenient, a diet high in ultra-processed foods may be associated with different health outcomes compared to diets rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
Can I eat this breakfast sandwich every day?
Given its high sodium content, consuming this breakfast sandwich daily may contribute significantly to your daily sodium intake, potentially exceeding recommended limits. For a balanced diet, it is advisable to rotate breakfast options to include a variety of whole foods, such as oatmeal with fruit or eggs with vegetables, to ensure a broader nutrient intake.
Does this sandwich contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies that the English muffin is made with whole wheat flour, indicating the inclusion of whole grains. Whole grains provide fiber and other nutrients that are beneficial for health. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the entire sandwich, not just individual components.