SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN GRILLED WHITE MEAT CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI, SNAP PEAS AND ROASTED RED PEPPERS OVER QUINOA LIGHTLY TOSSED IN AN ORANGE SESAME SAUCE BOWL, ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN
SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN scores 55/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and micronutrient content, balanced by its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
This SMARTMADE meal scores 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a good source of protein with 8.24g per 100g serving.
A key concern is its NOVA class 3 rating, indicating it is a processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains 2.74g of added sugar per 100g.
This convenient meal offers significant amounts of Iron (86% DV) and Vitamin A (54% DV).
Scores +9 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
8.24g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.74g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
207.84mg
9% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (2g)+1
Protein (8.2g)+4
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
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What holds it back
Added sugar (2.7g)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 55
The SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN bowl achieves a FoodScore of 55/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of positive nutritional contributions and factors that reduce its overall rating. On the positive side, the product provides 8.24g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety and muscle maintenance. It also contains 2g of fiber per 100g. Notably, it is a significant source of certain micronutrients, including 86% DV for Iron, 54% DV for Vitamin A, and 24% DV for Vitamin C. These contributions help to boost its score. However, the product receives penalties for its added sugar content, with 2.74g per 100g, and its classification as a NOVA class 3 food, indicating it is processed. While convenient, processed foods often contain ingredients like corn oil and native food starch that are less common in a home-cooked meal. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this SMARTMADE product offers convenience but with a trade-off in processing and added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smartmade orange sesame chicken grilled white meat chicken with broccoli, snap peas and roasted red peppers over quinoa lightly tossed in an orange sesame sauce bowl, orange sesame chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This SMARTMADE meal provides 8.24g of protein per 100g, primarily from fully cooked grilled chicken breast with rib meat chunks. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle repair and growth, and contributes to feelings of fullness. Including adequate protein in meals can help manage appetite and support overall body composition. This makes the product a suitable option for individuals looking to meet their daily protein needs in a convenient format.
Contributes to Micronutrient Intake
The SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN is a notable source of several key micronutrients. It provides 86% DV for Iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Additionally, it offers 54% DV for Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function, and 24% DV for Vitamin C, an antioxidant vital for immune health and collagen synthesis. These contributions come from the vegetable blend (broccoli, sugar snap peas, roasted red bell peppers) and other components, helping to diversify nutrient intake.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 2g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content in this meal likely comes from the vegetable blend and cooked quinoa. Including fiber-rich foods can also help regulate blood sugar levels and contribute to satiety, making this a more balanced option compared to meals lacking fiber.
SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN scores 55/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and micronutrient content, balanced by its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
Prepared meals like SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN are typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. They are designed for single servings and offer convenience for busy individuals. While a full package is a common portion, consider its place within your overall daily diet.
To increase the overall vegetable content of your meal, consider adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette.
Pair this meal with a piece of fruit, such as an apple or an orange, to add additional fiber and vitamins.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, be mindful of other high-sodium foods consumed throughout the day, as this product contains 207.84mg of sodium per 100g.
For a more balanced meal, consider adding a small serving of unsalted nuts or seeds to boost healthy fats.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including wheat and soybeans, as indicated by the presence of reduced sodium soy sauce. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be aware of the wheat content. The ingredient list also includes cornstarch and corn oil, which may be a concern for those avoiding corn derivatives. While the added sugar content of 2.74g per 100g is not excessively high, individuals managing blood sugar levels should factor this into their daily intake. The NOVA class 3 classification indicates it is a processed food, which means it contains ingredients that are typically not found in a home kitchen, such as native food starch.
SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN scores 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers a good amount of protein and several key micronutrients like Iron and Vitamin A. However, it is a processed food with some added sugar, which impacts its overall nutritional quality. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
How does SMARTMADE compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to many other frozen prepared meals, such as those from Lean Cuisine, SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN offers a comparable level of convenience and often a similar nutritional profile. This specific SKU provides notable protein and micronutrients. However, like many frozen meals, it is a processed food and may contain added sugars and sodium that differ from a home-cooked equivalent.
What is 'native food starch' in the ingredient list?
Native food starch, specifically tapioca and rice, is used in this product as a thickener or stabilizer. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of the sauce and chicken. While generally recognized as safe, it is an ingredient common in processed foods and contributes to the product's NOVA class 3 rating.
Can I eat this SMARTMADE meal every day?
While SMARTMADE ORANGE SESAME CHICKEN provides a decent nutritional profile with protein and micronutrients, consuming it daily may not be ideal for everyone. It is a processed food with added sugar and sodium. For a balanced diet, it's generally recommended to vary your meals and prioritize whole, unprocessed foods as much as possible.
How can I reduce the sodium content if I prepare this meal?
Since the sodium is integrated into the sauce and chicken preparation, it's difficult to significantly reduce the sodium content of this specific SMARTMADE meal. However, you can balance your overall daily sodium intake by choosing low-sodium options for other meals and snacks throughout the day. Adding fresh, unsalted vegetables can also help dilute the sodium per bite.