OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its significant protein content balanced against its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product received a FoodScore of 51/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A serving provides 27.38g of protein, a notable strength for muscle support.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to home-cooked chicken, this SKU contains higher sodium (416.67mg/100g) and added sugars (0.83g/100g).
Portion control is important due to the sodium content, especially if consuming more than the 3 oz serving size.
Scores +5 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
27.38g
55% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.83g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
416.67mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (27.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (416.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 51
OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ earns a FoodScore of 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of nutritional benefits and areas for moderation. A significant positive contributor is its high protein content, providing 27.38g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for muscle maintenance and satiety. The product also receives a small bonus for its Vitamin A content, at 13% DV. However, the score is impacted by its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a penalty of -10 points. Additionally, the sodium content, at 416.67mg per 100g, leads to a minor penalty. While the product contains some added sugar (0.83g per 100g), this amount is relatively low and does not significantly penalize the score. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this OPEN NATURE product contains a higher amount of sodium and includes various additives like rice starch, guar gum, and xanthan gum, which are common in ultra-processed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in open nature whole roasted chicken, bbq actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Protein
This OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ is an excellent source of protein, providing 27.38g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including adequate protein in meals can contribute to feelings of fullness and help manage appetite, which can be beneficial for weight management. This makes it a convenient option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
While not a powerhouse of micronutrients, this roasted chicken does contribute to your daily intake of some essential vitamins and minerals. Notably, it provides 13% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, which is important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It also offers a small amount of iron (2% DV). These contributions, while modest, can help supplement your diet, especially when combined with other nutrient-rich foods.
Convenient Meal Component
For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this product offers a convenient and ready-to-eat protein source. Its pre-cooked nature allows for quick meal assembly, reducing the need for extensive cooking. While a home-cooked meal is often preferred for nutrient control, this product can serve as a practical alternative when time is a constraint, helping to ensure a protein-rich component is included in a meal.
OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its significant protein content balanced against its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Roasted chicken is a versatile protein often consumed as a main dish or incorporated into other meals. A typical serving is 3 ounces, but consumers may eat more. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other foods.
To balance the meal, pair with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like a green salad or steamed broccoli.
Consider using the chicken in smaller portions, such as slicing it for sandwiches or adding it to a stir-fry with plenty of fresh produce.
If consuming more than one serving, be aware of the increased sodium intake and adjust other meals accordingly to stay within daily recommendations.
Remove the skin before eating to reduce total fat and saturated fat intake, if desired.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed foods, such as rice starch, guar gum, and xanthan gum, which are used for texture and stability. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitive digestive systems may experience discomfort with certain gums. The seasoning includes natural flavors and natural smoke flavors, which can be complex mixtures and may contain various components. The sodium content is moderate, but individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should be mindful of portion sizes and overall daily sodium intake. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label beyond what would be expected from chicken itself.
Is OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ healthy?
This product scores 51/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides a significant amount of protein and some Vitamin A. However, it is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains moderate sodium. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and portion control.
How does OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ compare to a rotisserie chicken from Boston Market?
Compared to a generic rotisserie chicken, such as those found at Boston Market, this OPEN NATURE product is likely to have a similar nutritional profile in terms of protein and fat. However, specific sodium and added sugar content can vary significantly between brands and seasoning blends. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparison.
What is 'natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavors' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. These are added to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, they can be complex mixtures of various compounds and are considered part of the processing that classifies this product as ultra-processed.
What is a reasonable portion size for this roasted chicken?
The declared serving size is 3 ounces (85g), which provides 27.38g of protein and 354mg of sodium. This is a reasonable portion for a protein source in a meal. If you consume a larger portion, such as half a chicken, your intake of calories, fat, and especially sodium will increase significantly, so adjust other meal components accordingly.
Can I freeze OPEN NATURE WHOLE ROASTED CHICKEN, BBQ?
Yes, you can typically freeze leftover roasted chicken. For best quality and safety, remove the meat from the bone, cut it into desired portions, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be safely frozen for up to 3-4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.