DecentpreparedNear East· 2 oz (56 g/about 1/2 cup dry couscous & 1 Tbsp seasoning mix) As Packa
Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil 4.7 Ounce Paper Box
Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **high sodium content**.
This Near East product scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
It contains 12.39g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the 966.07mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike a home-cooked version.
This product offers a convenient side dish option for meals.
Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2.61g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
12.39g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
966.07mg
42% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.6g)+2
Protein (12.4g)+8
−
What holds it back
Sodium (966.1mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is influenced by both positive and negative nutritional aspects. On the positive side, the product provides 12.39g of protein per 100g, earning it a +8 bonus. It also contains 2.61g of fiber, which contributes a +2 bonus. However, significant penalties impact the overall score. The sodium content is notably high at 966.07mg per 100g, resulting in a -5 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, leading to a substantial -10 penalty. Ingredients such as maltodextrin, autolyzed yeast extract, and natural flavor contribute to its ultra-processed status. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, the high sodium and processing level are key factors. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this Near East product contains more processed components and a higher sodium level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in near east pearled cous cous roasted garlic & olive oil 4.7 ounce paper box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This Near East couscous provides 12.39g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can complement meals to help meet protein needs, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 2.61g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a modest amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can contribute to the recommended daily fiber intake, particularly when combined with other fiber-rich foods like vegetables.
Convenient Meal Component
The Near East Pearled Cous Cous offers a quick and easy side dish option, requiring minimal preparation. This convenience can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking, helping them incorporate a grain component into their meals. It can serve as a base for adding fresh vegetables and lean proteins to create a more balanced dish.
Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
This pearled couscous is typically prepared as a quick side dish, often accompanying main courses like chicken, fish, or vegetables. A common portion is about 1/2 cup dry, which yields a larger cooked serving. The main pitfall is often consuming it without additional fresh ingredients, missing opportunities to boost nutrient density.
To enhance the nutritional profile, stir in fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas after cooking.
Pair with a lean protein source such as grilled chicken, baked fish, or lentils to create a more complete and satisfying meal.
Consider using half the seasoning packet to reduce sodium intake, and add your own herbs and spices for flavor.
Serve alongside a large green salad to increase fiber and micronutrient consumption.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat and soy, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. Those with a soy allergy should also exercise caution due to the presence of soy protein isolate and soy lecithin. The high sodium content (966.07mg per 100g) is a concern, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. While the product does not contain artificial sweeteners or colors, the presence of natural flavor and autolyzed yeast extract contributes to its ultra-processed classification, which some consumers may wish to limit in their diet.
Is Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil a healthy choice?
This product scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. While it provides some protein and fiber, its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content are significant drawbacks. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with fresh, whole foods to offset its less desirable nutritional aspects.
How does Near East Pearled Cous Cous compare to a generic plain couscous?
Compared to a generic plain couscous, the Near East Pearled Cous Cous Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil has significantly higher sodium due to its seasoning packet. Plain couscous typically has minimal sodium and no added flavors, making it a more versatile and less processed base to which you can add your own fresh ingredients and spices, controlling the sodium content yourself.
What is maltodextrin, and should I be concerned about it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In this product, it contributes to the ultra-processed nature. While generally recognized as safe, it has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar. Individuals managing blood sugar levels may wish to limit intake of foods containing it.
What is a reasonable portion size for this couscous?
The declared serving size is 2 oz (56g dry, about 1/2 cup), which yields a larger cooked portion. For a balanced meal, consider this as one component of your plate. To manage sodium intake, it's advisable to stick to the recommended serving size and balance it with low-sodium foods in the rest of your meal.
Can I reduce the sodium in this Near East couscous?
Yes, you can reduce the sodium by using only a portion of the included seasoning packet. You can then enhance the flavor with fresh herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano, which do not contribute additional sodium. This allows for greater control over the overall sodium content of your meal.