SMART ONES ASIAN-STYLE BEEF AND BROCCOLI scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** despite some beneficial micronutrients.
This SMART ONES meal received a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile for a prepared meal.
A strength is its Vitamin A content, providing 61% DV per 100g, and Vitamin C at 21% DV.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which negatively impacts its score.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this meal has a higher sodium content at 296.02mg per 100g.
This meal can be a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner, especially when paired with additional vegetables.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.8g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
6.64g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
296.02mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.8g)+1
Protein (6.6g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
The SMART ONES ASIAN-STYLE BEEF AND BROCCOLI earns a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 6.64g per 100g, and fiber at 1.8g per 100g. It also benefits from notable micronutrient contributions, specifically 61% DV of Vitamin A and 21% DV of Vitamin C per 100g. However, a significant penalty is applied because the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ingredients such as modified cornstarch, natural flavor, and caramel color contribute to this classification, suggesting a formulation that goes beyond simple culinary processing. While the product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, its sodium content is 296.02mg per 100g, which is a consideration. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this SMART ONES meal typically contains more processed components and higher sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart ones asian-style beef and broccoli actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Vitamins
This product provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 61% of the Daily Value per 100g, and Vitamin C, offering 21% of the Daily Value. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production. Including this meal can help contribute to your daily intake of these important micronutrients, especially when other fresh produce might be less accessible.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 6.64g of protein per 100g, this SMART ONES meal can contribute to your daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, hormone production, and overall satiety. For individuals seeking convenient options to meet their protein goals, particularly within a calorie-controlled framework, this product offers a source of protein from beef, which is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids.
Fiber for Digestive Health
The meal contains 1.8g of fiber per 100g, primarily from the broccoli. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining digestive regularity and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can still play a role in a balanced diet, especially when combined with other fiber-rich foods throughout the day. The fiber in broccoli also supports a healthy gut microbiome.
SMART ONES ASIAN-STYLE BEEF AND BROCCOLI scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature despite some beneficial micronutrients.
How to eat it
Prepared meals like SMART ONES ASIAN-STYLE BEEF AND BROCCOLI are typically consumed as a quick single-serving lunch or dinner. They are designed for convenience, often heated in a microwave. The typical portion is one package, which is intended to be a complete meal. A common pitfall can be relying solely on these meals without supplementing with additional fresh components.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette or extra steamed vegetables to your meal.
Pair this meal with a piece of fruit, such as an apple or an orange, to increase your fiber and micronutrient intake.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, as its sodium content is a consideration.
For a more substantial meal, you could add a small serving of brown rice or quinoa to increase the complex carbohydrate content and satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed foods, such as modified cornstarch and natural flavor. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients may wish to review the full ingredient list. The product also contains wheat and soybeans due to the reduced sodium soy sauce, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be aware of the wheat content. The sodium content of 296.02mg per 100g is moderate; those on a sodium-restricted diet should account for this in their daily intake. There are no specific interactions or risks for particular populations beyond general allergen and processing considerations.
Is SMART ONES a healthy option for weight management?
SMART ONES meals are often positioned for weight management due to their controlled calorie and portion sizes. This specific meal provides 75.22 calories per 100g, which can fit into a calorie-restricted diet. However, 'healthy' is subjective and depends on overall dietary patterns. While convenient, it's important to balance these meals with whole, unprocessed foods to ensure a comprehensive nutrient intake.
How does SMART ONES ASIAN-STYLE BEEF AND BROCCOLI compare to a homemade version?
Compared to a homemade Asian-style beef and broccoli, this SMART ONES meal is likely to be higher in sodium and contain more processed ingredients like modified cornstarch and natural flavor. A homemade version would typically allow for greater control over ingredient quality, sodium levels, and the inclusion of fresh, whole vegetables, potentially offering a higher nutrient density and lower degree of processing. For example, a homemade version might use fresh ginger instead of ginger puree.
What is 'modified cornstarch' and is it safe to consume?
Modified cornstarch is a food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. It is derived from cornstarch that has been chemically or physically altered to improve its functional properties. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies like the FDA. For most individuals, consuming modified cornstarch in typical food amounts is not a concern, though it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
Can I eat this SMART ONES meal every day?
While this meal offers some nutritional benefits like protein and certain vitamins, relying on any single prepared meal daily may not provide the full spectrum of nutrients needed for optimal health. Its classification as ultra-processed suggests it should be consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet. It's advisable to rotate with other meals, including those prepared from whole ingredients, to ensure dietary diversity.
How does this compare to other frozen meals like Lean Cuisine?
SMART ONES and Lean Cuisine are both popular brands in the frozen prepared meal category, offering similar convenience and portion control. Nutritional profiles can vary significantly between specific SKUs from both brands. Generally, both tend to be ultra-processed and may contain moderate to high sodium levels. Consumers should compare the nutrition facts panel and ingredient list of specific products from both brands to make an informed choice based on their dietary needs and preferences.