FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainSELECT· 1 bun

SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE

SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE scores 46/100 (Decent). The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the Decent category.
  • It provides 7.7g of protein and 2.6g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • A significant concern is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this bun has less fiber and more added sugar.
  • Consider pairing with lean protein and vegetables to enhance the overall nutritional value of a meal.
  • Scores -1 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.59g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
7.69g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.1g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
461.54mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.6g)+2
Protein (7.7g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.1g)-4
Sodium (461.5mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 46

SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE earns a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, primarily due to its ultra-processed NOVA 4 classification, which incurs a 10-point penalty. While it benefits from enrichment, providing 16% DV for iron and 27% DV for folate per 100g, these micronutrient contributions are offset by other factors. The product contains 5.1g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a 4-point penalty, and 461.5mg of sodium, resulting in a 1-point penalty. The ingredient list includes enriched wheat flour as the first ingredient, indicating a refined grain base, and also features soybean oil and several dough conditioners like monoglycerides and DATEM. In comparison to a generic whole-grain hamburger bun, SELECT's enriched white bun typically offers less dietary fiber and often contains more added sugars and sodium, reflecting the differences between refined and whole grain products.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in select white enriched hamburger buns, white actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Essential Micronutrients

This SELECT product is made with enriched wheat flour, which means it has been fortified with certain B vitamins and iron. Per 100g, it provides 16% DV for iron and 27% DV for folate, both of which are important for various bodily functions. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, while folate plays a key role in cell division and DNA synthesis. Consuming foods fortified with these nutrients can help contribute to meeting daily requirements, especially for individuals who may have lower intake from other sources.

Contribution to Protein Intake

Each 100g serving of SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS provides 7.7g of protein. While not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to your daily protein needs, particularly when combined with other protein-rich foods in a meal. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. Including this bun as part of a balanced meal with lean meats, poultry, or plant-based proteins can help create a more satiating and nutritionally complete eating experience.

Provides Dietary Fiber

This product contains 2.6g of fiber per 100g. Although not a high-fiber food, this amount still contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and support a healthy gut microbiome. While opting for whole-grain alternatives would provide more fiber, this bun can still be part of a diet that meets fiber recommendations when paired with other fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

How to eat it

Hamburger buns are typically consumed as a base for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side with meals. A common portion is one bun. While convenient, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the meal.

Pair with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or a veggie burger to build a more balanced meal.
Add a generous serving of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Consider using half a bun or opting for smaller slider buns to manage portion sizes and reduce carbohydrate intake.
Look for opportunities to swap with whole-grain buns when available to boost fiber and nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind

SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients like monoglycerides and DATEM. These emulsifiers are commonly used in baked goods to improve texture and shelf life. The product also contains calcium propionate as a preservative. Individuals with sensitivities to highly processed foods or those aiming to reduce their intake of such items may wish to consume this product in moderation. Allergens declared on the label include wheat and soy, which are important considerations for individuals with these specific allergies.

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Reader questions
Is SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS healthy?
SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides some iron and folate due to enrichment, it is an ultra-processed food with added sugar and sodium. Its nutritional value can be enhanced by pairing it with nutrient-dense ingredients.
How does SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic whole-grain hamburger bun, SELECT's enriched white bun generally offers less dietary fiber and may have more added sugars and sodium. For instance, brands like Arnold or Pepperidge Farm also offer whole wheat bun options that typically provide higher fiber content per serving.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and why is it in this bun?
Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had certain nutrients, specifically iron and B vitamins (niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, folic acid), added back after processing. This enrichment helps to restore some of the nutrients lost during the milling process of white flour.
How much of this bun can I eat in a day?
A typical serving size is one bun. While there isn't a strict daily limit, it's advisable to consider your overall dietary intake. Given its added sugar and sodium content, moderation is key, especially if you consume other processed foods throughout the day.
Does this product contain any artificial colors or flavors?
Based on the ingredient list provided, SELECT WHITE ENRICHED HAMBURGER BUNS, WHITE does not appear to contain artificial colors or flavors. The ingredients primarily consist of flour, water, sugar, yeast, and various dough conditioners and preservatives.

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Data & references