NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS score 53/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its whole wheat flour content and fiber, balanced against its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product provides 7g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to daily intake.
A notable concern is its NOVA class 4 status, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic whole-grain bun, this SKU has higher sodium at 543.86mg per 100g.
Consider portion control due to the sodium and added sugar content.
Scores +6 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
7g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
12.3g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.3g
11% of Daily Value
Sodium
543.86mg
24% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7g)+9
Protein (12.3g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.3g)-4
Sodium (543.9mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 53
NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS achieve a FoodScore of 53/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The primary positive contributions to this score come from its substantial fiber content, providing 7g per 100g, and its protein content of 12.3g per 100g. Additionally, the product offers 2.28mg of iron, which is 13% of the Daily Value. However, several factors reduce its overall score. It contains 5.3g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a penalty. The sodium content is also relatively high at 543.86mg per 100g, incurring another penalty. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which results in a significant deduction. Ingredients like monoglycerides and DATEM are common in ultra-processed baked goods to improve texture and shelf life. While the product name highlights "100% WHOLE WHEAT," which is a strong nutritional foundation, the overall formulation with added sugars, sodium, and processing aids positions it as a moderate choice compared to a minimally processed whole-grain equivalent.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nature's harvest 100% whole wheat hamburger buns, whole wheat actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health with Fiber
NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS are a source of dietary fiber, providing 7g per 100g. Fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can contribute to overall digestive wellness. Including fiber-rich foods like these buns can help meet daily fiber recommendations, which are often unmet in the average American diet. This can aid in satiety and contribute to a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 12.3g of protein per 100g, NATURE'S HARVEST buns can contribute to your daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in numerous bodily functions. While not a primary protein source, incorporating these buns into a meal with other protein-rich foods can help create a more balanced nutritional profile, supporting satiety and energy levels.
Provides Essential Iron
These buns supply 2.28mg of iron per 100g, which is 13% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Including foods that provide iron can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. This makes NATURE'S HARVEST buns a decent option for contributing to your iron intake as part of a varied diet.
NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS score 53/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its whole wheat flour content and fiber, balanced against its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
These whole wheat hamburger buns are typically used as a base for sandwiches and burgers. They are a common component of lunch and dinner meals in the US, often paired with grilled meats, plant-based patties, or deli fillings. A typical serving is one bun.
Pair with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish, and plenty of vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Consider an open-faced sandwich by using only one half of the bun to reduce carbohydrate and sodium intake.
Look for lower-sodium fillings and condiments to balance the 543.86mg of sodium per 100g in the bun.
Toast the buns lightly to enhance texture and flavor, making them more satisfying with your chosen fillings.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with celiac disease or wheat allergies should avoid this product as it contains wheat flour and wheat gluten. The presence of calcium propionate is as a preservative, commonly used to inhibit mold growth in baked goods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals report sensitivities to certain food additives. The product also contains soy lecithin, which is a common emulsifier and an allergen for those with soy sensitivities. The sodium content of 543.86mg per 100g is something to consider for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension.
Is NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS healthy?
NATURE'S HARVEST 100% WHOLE WHEAT HAMBURGER BUNS score 53/100, placing them in the 'Decent' category. They offer fiber and protein from whole wheat, which are beneficial. However, they are also an ultra-processed food with added sugar and a notable amount of sodium, so moderation is key.
How does NATURE'S HARVEST compare to other whole wheat buns?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, NATURE'S HARVEST buns have a similar nutritional profile in terms of whole wheat content. However, they tend to have higher sodium levels than some other brands, such as Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat Buns, which may have slightly less sodium per serving. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is calcium propionate, and is it safe?
Calcium propionate is a food preservative used to prevent mold growth in baked goods, extending their shelf life. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies. While some individuals report sensitivities, it is widely used and considered safe for consumption in typical amounts.
What is a recommended portion size for these buns?
The recommended serving size is one bun. Given the sodium content of 543.86mg per 100g and 5.3g of added sugar, sticking to a single bun per meal is advisable, especially if you are monitoring these nutrients in your diet. Pairing it with nutrient-dense fillings can help create a balanced meal.
Are these buns suitable for a low-sodium diet?
With 543.86mg of sodium per 100g, these buns are not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals following a low-sodium diet should be mindful of this contribution and consider alternative bread options with lower sodium content or adjust other sodium sources in their meal.