SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER scores 53/100 (Decent) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate sodium content, despite providing some protein and fiber.
This SMART ONES product has a FoodScore of 53/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 12.9g of protein and 4.3g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
With 485.71mg of sodium per 100g, it is higher in sodium compared to a home-cooked alternative.
Consider this slider as an occasional meal component, focusing on pairing it with fresh produce.
Scores +7 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
4.3g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
12.9g
26% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
485.71mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.3g)+4
Protein (12.9g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (485.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 53
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER achieves a FoodScore of 53/100, primarily influenced by its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This classification incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product does offer some nutritional positives, such as 12.9g of protein (+8 points) and 4.3g of fiber (+4 points) per 100g, these are somewhat offset by other factors. The sodium content, at 485.71mg per 100g, results in a -1 point penalty. Micronutrient contributions are minimal, with only iron at 2.06mg (11% DV) adding +2 points. The ingredient list includes enriched bleached wheat flour and various stabilizers and enzymes, which are common in prepared foods but contribute to its processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked chicken slider made with whole ingredients, this SMART ONES option contains more processed components and a higher sodium level, which impacts its overall nutritional standing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart ones tasty american favorites chicken slider actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This chicken slider provides 12.9g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and support muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including adequate protein in meals can help manage appetite and contribute to a balanced diet, especially when combined with other nutrient-dense foods.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 4.3g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a moderate amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to satiety. While not a primary source of fiber, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber intake, particularly when eaten as part of a meal that includes other fiber-rich foods like vegetables or whole grains.
Convenient Meal Option
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER offers a convenient option for a quick meal or snack, especially for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. Its pre-portioned nature can assist with calorie awareness for those monitoring their intake. While it is an ultra-processed food, its convenience can be a practical benefit in certain dietary contexts when balanced with less processed foods.
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER scores 53/100 (Decent) due to its ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium content, despite providing some protein and fiber.
How to eat it
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER is typically consumed as a single-serving microwaveable meal for lunch or a light dinner. It's designed for convenience, offering a quick option when time is limited. Consumers often eat it on its own, but it can be enhanced with additional components.
To boost the nutritional value, pair your slider with a side salad rich in non-starchy vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider adding a piece of fruit, like an apple or a handful of berries, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
If you're looking to reduce sodium, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to manage overall intake.
For a more substantial meal, add a serving of steamed green beans or broccoli to increase vegetable consumption without adding significant calories.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers with specific sensitivities or dietary goals may wish to note. The presence of enriched bleached wheat flour indicates a refined grain base. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product as it contains wheat. The ingredient list also includes soybean oil and various food additives like monoglycerides and calcium propionate, which are common in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of such additives. The sodium content is moderate, and those monitoring sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns should be mindful of this when incorporating the slider into their diet.
Is SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER a healthy choice?
The SMART ONES TASTY AMERICAN FAVORITES CHICKEN SLIDER scores 53/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides protein and fiber, but its classification as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and moderate sodium content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a primary source of many essential micronutrients.
How does this SMART ONES slider compare to a homemade chicken slider?
Compared to a homemade chicken slider using whole ingredients, the SMART ONES version is significantly more processed and contains a higher amount of sodium. A homemade version would allow for control over ingredients, potentially reducing refined grains and additives, and increasing fresh vegetable content. For example, a homemade slider could use a whole wheat bun and fresh, unbreaded chicken.
What does 'enriched bleached wheat flour' mean in the ingredient list?
Enriched bleached wheat flour indicates that the flour has been refined, removing the bran and germ, and then bleached. Enrichment means certain B vitamins (niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron have been added back. While it provides some nutrients, it lacks the fiber and other beneficial compounds found in whole wheat flour.
How many of these sliders can I eat in a day?
Given its FoodScore of 53/100 and its ultra-processed nature, it is advisable to consume this slider in moderation. For most individuals, one slider as an occasional meal component, balanced with other nutrient-dense foods throughout the day, would be appropriate. It is not designed to be a staple food.
Are there other similar frozen meal brands that are less processed?
Many frozen meal brands, including Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice, offer convenient options. However, most frozen prepared meals tend to be ultra-processed (NOVA 4) due to their formulation for shelf stability and taste. To find less processed options, look for meals with shorter ingredient lists, more whole foods, and lower sodium content, or consider making your own freezer meals.