SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA FLAVORED SEASONED BEEF WITH BLACK BEANS AND CILANTRO, WHITE RICE IN A SPICY BARBACOA SAUCE BOWL, BEEF BARBACOA
SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing some protein and fiber.
This SMART ONES product has a FoodScore of 45/100.
It provides 6.25g of protein and 2g of fiber per 100g serving.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Sodium content is 276.95mg per 100g, which is a moderate amount.
This snack offers a convenient option but differs from whole-food alternatives like nuts or fruit.
Scores +4 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
6.25g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
276.95mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2g)+1
Protein (6.3g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
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What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
The SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a 10-point penalty. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its nutrient content: 2g of fiber per 100g contributes +1 point, and 6.25g of protein adds +2 points. Additionally, the presence of Vitamin A, at 22% DV per 100g, provides another +2 points. The ingredient list includes items like modified food starch and chicken base with hydrolyzed soy and corn protein, common in processed meals. While it contains 0g of added sugar, its overall formulation as a ready-to-eat meal positions it differently from whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, which would typically score much higher due to their minimal processing and higher nutrient density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart ones beef barbacoa flavored seasoned beef with black beans and cilantro, white rice in a spicy barbacoa sauce bowl, beef barbacoa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This SMART ONES meal provides 6.25g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for satiety, helping you feel full. Including adequate protein in meals and snacks supports overall body function and can be particularly useful for individuals managing their weight or looking to support lean muscle mass.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 2g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a modest contribution to your daily fiber needs. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and support a healthy gut microbiome. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can still be beneficial as part of a balanced diet that includes other fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Provides Vitamin A
This product delivers 22% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a crucial nutrient for vision, immune function, and skin health. It plays a role in cell growth and differentiation. While this meal contributes to your Vitamin A intake, it's important to consume a variety of foods to meet all micronutrient needs.
SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing some protein and fiber.
How to eat it
This SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA bowl is designed as a convenient, single-serving meal or snack, typically consumed heated in a microwave. It's often chosen for its ease of preparation and portion control, fitting into busy schedules.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider pairing this bowl with a side salad made with dark leafy greens to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
If you are monitoring sodium, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout your day, such as fresh fruits or unsalted vegetables.
For a more substantial meal, add a serving of steamed non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or green beans to boost volume and nutrient density without significantly increasing calories.
Be mindful of the single container serving size; consuming multiple containers would significantly increase calorie and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains hydrolyzed soy and corn protein, which can be a concern for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients, though they are not typically considered major allergens in their hydrolyzed form. The ingredient list also includes modified food starch, a common additive used for thickening and texture. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies should review the full ingredient list carefully, especially concerning potential allergens like soy. While the sodium content is moderate at 276.95mg per 100g, those on a sodium-restricted diet should account for this in their daily intake. As an ultra-processed food, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA scores 45/100 on FoodScore, indicating it's a decent option within its category. It provides protein and fiber, along with Vitamin A. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food means it's not as nutritionally dense as whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as a Lean Cuisine meal, the SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA offers a similar level of convenience and portion control. Its nutritional profile, including protein and fiber, should be compared directly to specific competitor products, as nutrient content can vary widely across brands and meal types.
What is 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch is an ingredient derived from starch that has been physically, enzymatically, or chemically treated to change its properties. In this SMART ONES product, it's typically used as a thickening agent or stabilizer to improve the texture and consistency of the sauce, rather than for nutritional value.
How much of this product should I eat?
The serving size for this product is one container. It is designed as a single-serving meal or snack. To maintain a balanced diet, it's advisable to consume this product as part of a varied intake that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Can I add vegetables to this meal?
Yes, adding vegetables is a good way to enhance the nutritional value of this SMART ONES BEEF BARBACOA. Steamed or roasted non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach can increase the fiber and vitamin content, making the meal more filling and nutrient-dense.