The Near East Rice Pilaf Lentil achieves a FoodScore of 65 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. A primary positive contributor is its high protein content, providing 19.64g per 100g, which is a significant amount for a grain-based product. The product also offers an excellent source of dietary fiber, with 14.3g per 100g, contributing positively to digestive health. Furthermore, it provides meaningful amounts of micronutrients, specifically 27% DV for iron and 99% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. However, the product incurs penalties due to its elevated sodium content of 1160.71mg per 100g, which is high for a single serving and can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for being processed, indicating it contains ingredients like 'Salt' and 'Spices' that are typically added during processing rather than being a whole, unprocessed food. When compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this Near East product offers a more complete nutrient profile in terms of protein and fiber, but also comes with a higher sodium load.
What the nutrients in near east rice pilaf lentil 6.75 ounce paper box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
This Near East product is a good source of protein, providing 19.64g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscle, and plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. The combination of lentils and rice contributes to a more complete protein profile than rice alone. Consuming adequate protein can help promote feelings of fullness, which may assist with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
With 14.3g of fiber per 100g, this pilaf is an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, helping to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. The fiber in lentils and rice can also contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to various aspects of overall health. Including fiber-rich foods like this can help meet daily recommended fiber intake.
This product provides notable amounts of certain micronutrients, including 27% DV for iron and 99% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. These contributions can help individuals meet their daily nutrient requirements, particularly for those who may have deficiencies in these areas.
Near East Rice Pilaf Lentil is typically prepared as a side dish or a base for a main meal. It's often consumed as part of a dinner or lunch, offering a convenient way to incorporate grains and legumes. A common serving size is around 1/2 cup cooked, but this product's nutrient values are per 100g.
The primary caution for Near East Rice Pilaf Lentil is its high sodium content of 1160.71mg per 100g. This amount represents a significant portion of the daily recommended sodium intake, which is typically 2,300mg for most adults. Individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of other sodium sources in their meals. The ingredient 'Salt' is listed, which is the direct contributor to this high sodium level. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list. For most healthy adults, consuming this product as part of a balanced diet, with attention to overall sodium intake, is generally acceptable.