PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW scores 71/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **minimal processing** and fortification with essential micronutrients like iron and folate.
This product earns a FoodScore of 71/100, indicating a good nutritional choice.
A notable strength is its fortification, providing 21% DV for iron and 33% DV for folate per 100g.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, contributing positively to its score.
As a NOVA class 2 ingredient, it is less processed than many other grain products.
Consider pairing with other foods to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +24 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.7g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.41g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.7g)+4
Protein (7.4g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 71
PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW achieves a FoodScore of 71 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely driven by its favorable nutrient profile and minimal processing. The product receives bonus points for its fiber content (3.7g per 100g) and protein (7.4g per 100g). Significant contributions to the score come from its micronutrient fortification, specifically providing 21% DV for iron and 33% DV for folate per 100g, along with riboflavin. The ingredient list, featuring degerminated yellow corn meal and several B vitamins, indicates a NOVA class 2 classification, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This contributes positively to its score as it is less processed than many ready-to-eat grain products. Unlike many processed foods, PEARL MILLING COMPANY's corn meal contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, avoiding common penalties. While not a whole grain, its fortification helps bridge some nutritional gaps compared to an unfortified refined grain equivalent.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pearl milling yellow corn meal, yellow actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Red Blood Cell Production
PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW is fortified with iron and folate, two essential micronutrients crucial for the production of red blood cells. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, while folate is vital for DNA synthesis and cell division. Consuming foods fortified with these nutrients can help prevent deficiencies, especially important for individuals with increased needs, such as pregnant women or those with certain dietary restrictions. This product provides 21% DV for iron and 33% DV for folate per 100g, making it a meaningful source.
Provides B Vitamins for Energy Metabolism
This corn meal is a source of several B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. These vitamins play critical roles in energy metabolism, helping the body convert food into usable energy. They are also important for nerve function and maintaining healthy skin. Including foods fortified with B vitamins, like PEARL MILLING COMPANY's corn meal, can contribute to overall nutritional intake and support various bodily functions. The fortification helps ensure these nutrients are available even after the degermination process.
Naturally Free of Added Sugars and Sodium
One of the key benefits of PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW is its absence of added sugars and sodium. Many processed grain products can contribute significantly to daily intake of these components, which are often overconsumed in the American diet. Choosing products like this corn meal allows consumers to control the amount of sugar and salt they add during preparation, aligning with dietary guidelines to limit these ingredients. This makes it a versatile base for various recipes, both savory and sweet.
PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW scores 71/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its minimal processing and fortification with essential micronutrients like iron and folate.
How to eat it
Yellow corn meal is a versatile ingredient commonly used in American cooking, particularly for baking and frying. It serves as a base for cornbread, muffins, and as a coating for fried foods. A typical serving size is 3 tablespoons, but this can vary greatly depending on the recipe.
Use PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW to make cornbread, pairing it with lean protein and vegetables for a balanced meal.
Incorporate corn meal into savory dishes like polenta or grits, adding fiber-rich ingredients such as beans or greens.
When using as a coating for fried foods, consider baking or air-frying instead to reduce added fats.
Experiment with using corn meal in gluten-free baking recipes as a texture enhancer.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally considered safe for consumption by most individuals. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily consisting of degerminated yellow corn meal and a few B vitamin fortifications. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, nor does it contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that often raise concerns. Individuals with corn allergies should, of course, avoid this product. As a refined grain product, it lacks the full spectrum of nutrients found in whole grains, so it should be consumed as part of a varied diet that includes whole grains. There are no specific interactions or populations that need to be particularly cautious with this SKU beyond general dietary considerations.
Is PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW healthy?
PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW scores 71/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It is a good source of iron and folate due to fortification and contains no added sugar or sodium. While it is a refined grain, its minimal processing and nutrient additions contribute positively to its nutritional profile.
How does PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW compare to other cornmeal brands?
Compared to other common cornmeal brands like Bob's Red Mill Medium Grind Cornmeal, PEARL MILLING COMPANY's product is similar in its basic composition as a degerminated yellow corn meal. The primary difference often lies in the level of fortification and whether it's degerminated or whole grain. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts for specific comparisons.
What does 'degerminated' mean in the ingredient list?
'Degerminated' means that the germ and bran have been removed from the corn kernel during processing. This results in a finer texture and longer shelf life but also removes some of the fiber, vitamins, and minerals naturally present in whole corn. The product is then fortified with certain B vitamins and iron to restore some of these nutrients.
What is a reasonable portion size for corn meal?
The suggested serving size for PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW is 3 tablespoons. However, the actual portion you consume will depend on the recipe. For example, a slice of cornbread or a bowl of grits will contain more. It's important to consider the overall calorie and nutrient contribution of the entire dish.
Can this corn meal be used for gluten-free baking?
Yes, corn meal is naturally gluten-free, making PEARL MILLING YELLOW CORN MEAL, YELLOW suitable for gluten-free baking. It can be used in recipes for cornbread, muffins, or as a coating. Always ensure that any other ingredients you combine it with are also gluten-free to maintain the gluten-free status of your final dish.