DecentgrainNear East· 2.0 oz (56g/about 1/3 cup dry quinoa-grain mix & 1 Tbsp seasoning mix)
Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil 4.9 Ounce Paper Box
Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil scores 54/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification, despite providing beneficial fiber and protein.
This Near East product earns a FoodScore of 54/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a notable 5.5g of fiber and 10.89g of protein per 100g serving.
A primary concern is the high sodium content at 573.21mg per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from a generic whole-grain equivalent.
This blend can be a convenient side dish, but consider its sodium contribution to your meal.
Scores +7 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
5.5g
20% of Daily Value
Protein
10.89g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
573.21mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.5g)+6
Protein (10.9g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (573.2mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 54
Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil achieves a FoodScore of 54/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, it receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 5.5g per 100g, and protein, at 10.89g per 100g. It also contributes beneficial micronutrients like iron (17% DV) and Vitamin A (10% DV). However, the product incurs penalties for its sodium content, which is 573.21mg per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake. A more substantial penalty is applied due to its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, indicating a formulation with multiple processing steps and ingredients like maltodextrin and natural flavor. While it contains whole grains, the overall processing and ingredient profile differentiate it from a simple, unseasoned whole-grain quinoa or brown rice, which would typically score higher due to minimal processing and lower sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in near east quinoa blend rosemary & olive oil 4.9 ounce paper box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Dietary Fiber
This Near East quinoa blend offers 5.5g of fiber per 100g, contributing to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet supports regular bowel function and can be part of a balanced eating pattern. This product can help you reach the recommended daily fiber intake when combined with other fiber sources.
Source of Plant-Based Protein
With 10.89g of protein per 100g, this product provides a good amount of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it plays a role in satiety. For individuals seeking to increase their intake of plant proteins, this blend can be a convenient option. Combining it with other protein sources throughout the day can help meet your overall protein needs.
Contributes Essential Micronutrients
This blend is a source of iron, providing 17% of the Daily Value per 100g, and also contributes 10% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. While not a primary source for all micronutrients, the product helps to diversify your intake of these important vitamins and minerals.
Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil scores 54/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification, despite providing beneficial fiber and protein.
How to eat it
Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil is typically prepared as a quick side dish, often accompanying main meals like roasted chicken or fish. It's designed for convenience, requiring minimal preparation. A common portion is about 1/3 cup dry mix, which expands upon cooking. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other salty foods.
To enhance the nutritional profile, mix in extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini after cooking.
Serve alongside a lean protein source such as grilled chicken breast or lentils to create a more balanced meal.
Consider using half a packet of the seasoning mix to reduce the sodium content of your serving.
Use as a base for a cold grain salad by adding fresh herbs, chopped cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. While it contains whole grains, the presence of ingredients like maltodextrin, yeast extract, and natural flavor contributes to this classification. Individuals sensitive to higher sodium intake, such as those managing blood pressure, should be mindful of the 573.21mg of sodium per 100g serving. The ingredient list does not declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. Overall, for most healthy individuals, this product can be consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Is Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil healthy?
This Near East product scores 54/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers beneficial fiber and protein, but its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does Near East Quinoa Blend compare to plain quinoa?
Compared to plain, unseasoned quinoa, Near East Quinoa Blend Rosemary & Olive Oil is higher in sodium and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4). Plain quinoa would typically score higher due to its minimal processing. While the Near East blend offers convenience and flavor, plain quinoa provides more versatility and allows for greater control over added ingredients.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In this Near East blend, it likely contributes to the texture and helps carry the flavor of the seasoning mix. It is a source of carbohydrates but offers minimal nutritional value beyond calories.
What is a reasonable portion size for this quinoa blend?
The declared serving size is 2.0 oz (56g) dry mix, which yields about 1 cup cooked. This portion provides a good amount of fiber and protein. To manage sodium intake, consider this serving size as a side dish and balance it with lower-sodium components in your meal.
Can I reduce the sodium in this Near East blend?
Yes, you can reduce the sodium by using less of the included seasoning mix. The seasoning is packaged separately from the grains, allowing you to control the amount added. You can also enhance flavor with fresh herbs and spices instead of relying solely on the provided seasoning.
How does this compare to other seasoned grain blends like Uncle Ben's Ready Rice?
Near East Quinoa Blend and products like Uncle Ben's Ready Rice are both convenient, seasoned grain options. Nutritional profiles can vary, but generally, both categories often contain higher sodium levels and are considered processed. The Near East blend specifically highlights quinoa and brown rice, offering a good source of fiber and protein, whereas Uncle Ben's often focuses on white or brown rice varieties.