SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **balanced macro profile** and notable micronutrient contributions, despite being a processed food.
This SMART MADE product received a FoodScore of 53/100 (Decent).
It provides a good source of Vitamin A (98% DV) and Vitamin C (37% DV) per 100g.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), contributing to a -5 penalty in its score.
With 230.98mg of sodium per 100g, it's a moderate sodium option compared to many prepared meals.
This enchilada bake can serve as a convenient meal option when time for home cooking is limited.
Scores +7 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.5g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
5.49g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
230.98mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.5g)+3
Protein (5.5g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 53
The SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake achieved a FoodScore of 53 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive nutritional contributions and the inherent processing of the product. On the positive side, it earned bonus points for its fiber content, providing 3.5g per 100g, and its protein, at 5.49g per 100g. Notably, the product is a significant source of certain micronutrients, with 98% DV for Vitamin A and 37% DV for Vitamin C per 100g, contributing an additional 4 bonus points. The ingredient list features a variety of vegetables like fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, corn, and roasted red bell peppers, which contribute to these nutrient levels. However, as a prepared meal, it falls into NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a 5-point penalty. While it contains ingredients like cornstarch and cellulose gum that are common in processed foods, its overall macro and micronutrient profile helps to offset some of the processing penalty. Compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, this SMART MADE product offers convenience but may contain a broader range of food additives.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart made, roasted vegetable enchilada bake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamins A and C
This SMART MADE enchilada bake is a notable source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, providing 98% DV and 37% DV respectively per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production. The presence of fire roasted tomatoes and roasted red bell peppers in the vegetable blend likely contributes significantly to these vitamin levels, making this a convenient way to boost intake of these important micronutrients.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 3.5g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content in this enchilada bake likely comes from the cooked black beans, corn, and whole grain components of the corn tortilla. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness.
Source of Protein
This SMART MADE product provides 5.49g of protein per 100g, contributing to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. The protein in this dish comes from sources such as the cooked black beans, low fat ricotta cheese, and parmesan cheese. Including adequate protein at meals can help with satiety and support the maintenance of lean body mass, which is beneficial for overall health.
SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its balanced macro profile and notable micronutrient contributions, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
Prepared meals like the SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake are typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. They are designed for convenience, offering a complete meal in a single package. The entire package is considered one serving.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this enchilada bake with a fresh side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
If you're looking to increase your vegetable intake further, add some steamed non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or green beans alongside.
To manage sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout your day, as it contains 230.98mg of sodium per 100g.
For a more filling meal, you could add a small serving of lean protein such as grilled chicken or fish on the side.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including milk due to the ricotta and other cheeses, and may contain wheat from the tortilla depending on the specific flour used. Individuals with dairy allergies or sensitivities should avoid this product. The ingredient list includes cultured corn sugar and cellulose gum, which are generally recognized as safe but can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. While the sodium content is moderate for a prepared meal at 230.98mg per 100g, those monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be mindful of the portion size and balance it with other low-sodium foods throughout the day. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors declared in the ingredient list.
Is SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake healthy?
This SMART MADE product scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers a good source of Vitamin A and C, along with fiber and protein. While it is a processed food (NOVA 3), its nutritional contributions make it a reasonable option for occasional consumption as part of a balanced diet. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern.
How does SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to many other frozen prepared meals, such as those from Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice, this SMART MADE enchilada bake offers a comparable nutritional profile in terms of calories and macros. Its notable Vitamin A and C content is a strong point. Always check the nutrition facts panel of specific products for direct comparison, especially for sodium and added sugar.
What is 'cultured corn sugar' in the ingredient list?
Cultured corn sugar is a natural preservative derived from corn. It is used to extend the shelf life of food products by inhibiting the growth of certain microorganisms. It is not an added sugar in the traditional sense, and this product declares 0g of added sugar per 100g, which is a positive attribute.
What is a suitable portion size for this enchilada bake?
The serving size for this SMART MADE product is 1 package, which provides 109.8 calories per 100g. For most adults, consuming the entire package as a single meal is appropriate. If you are aiming for a lower calorie intake, you could share the package or pair it with a large, low-calorie salad to increase satiety without significantly increasing calories.
Can I freeze this product if I don't eat it all?
This SMART MADE Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Bake is sold as a frozen prepared meal, designed to be cooked from frozen. Once cooked, it is generally not recommended to refreeze it. For best quality and food safety, consume any leftovers within 3-4 days after cooking, stored properly in the refrigerator.