SWEET EARTH LENTILS POTATOES, FRENCH GREEN BEANS, MUSHROOMS, ROASTED CHERRY TOMATOES, HERBS OF PROVENCE PROVENCAL, LENTILS
SWEET EARTH LENTILS POTATOES, FRENCH GREEN BEANS, MUSHROOMS, ROASTED CHERRY TOMATOES, HERBS OF PROVENCE PROVENCAL, LENTILS scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food despite a favorable nutrient profile.
This SWEET EARTH product has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A notable strength is its Vitamin A content, providing 109% DV per 100g.
The primary concern is its NOVA 4 classification, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this prepared meal offers convenience but with processing trade-offs.
Each 9 oz serving provides 3.1g of fiber, contributing to daily intake.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.1g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
4.31g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
187.84mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
This SWEET EARTH product achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is influenced by both positive and negative factors. On the positive side, it receives bonus points for its fiber content, providing 3.1g per 100g, and for specific micronutrients, notably Vitamin A (109% DV) and Vitamin B12 (15% DV). These contributions are beneficial for overall nutrient intake. However, a significant penalty of 10 points is applied because the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification reflects the presence of ingredients like 'tapioca maltodextrin' and 'natural flavors' in the vegetable and mushroom broths, which are common in highly processed foods. While the product contains no added sugar and a moderate sodium level of 187.84mg per 100g, its processing level is a key factor in its overall score. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this prepared meal offers convenience but with a higher degree of industrial processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet earth lentils potatoes, french green beans, mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, herbs of provence provencal, lentils actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This product is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 109% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of ingredients like carrots and roasted cherry tomatoes likely contributes to this significant amount. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can help support various bodily functions, making this a convenient option for boosting your intake.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 3.1g of fiber per 100g, this SWEET EARTH product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is crucial for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and prevent constipation. It also plays a role in satiety, which can be beneficial for weight management. The lentils and vegetables in this dish are natural sources of this important nutrient, supporting a balanced diet.
Source of Plant-Based Protein
This meal provides 4.31g of protein per 100g, primarily from green lentils. Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source, offering essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Incorporating plant-based proteins into your diet can be a sustainable and healthy choice, and this product offers a convenient way to do so within a prepared meal format.
SWEET EARTH LENTILS POTATOES, FRENCH GREEN BEANS, MUSHROOMS, ROASTED CHERRY TOMATOES, HERBS OF PROVENCE PROVENCAL, LENTILS scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food despite a favorable nutrient profile.
How to eat it
This SWEET EARTH Provencal Lentils meal is designed as a convenient single-serving entree. It's typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner when time for cooking from scratch is limited. The 9 oz serving size is suitable for one person.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this meal with a side salad made with dark leafy greens and a light vinaigrette.
For a more substantial meal, add a lean protein source like grilled chicken or tofu to complement the lentils.
Be mindful of the portion size; while convenient, consuming multiple prepared meals daily may lead to nutrient imbalances over time.
If you're watching sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout your day.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. While it does not contain high levels of added sugar or sodium, the presence of ingredients like 'tapioca maltodextrin' and 'natural flavors' suggests a complex manufacturing process. Individuals with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients or those aiming for a diet primarily composed of whole, minimally processed foods may wish to consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list also includes 'soybeans' in the vegetable broth, which is a common allergen. Consumers with soy allergies should be aware of this. There are no specific warnings for children or interactions with medications based on the provided data.
SWEET EARTH Provencal Lentils scores 47/100, which is considered 'Decent' by FoodScore. It offers beneficial nutrients like Vitamin A (109% DV) and fiber (3.1g per 100g). However, its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) is a factor in its overall score, suggesting it's best consumed as part of a varied diet rather than as a daily staple.
How does SWEET EARTH Provencal Lentils compare to a home-cooked lentil dish?
Compared to a home-cooked lentil dish made with whole ingredients, this SWEET EARTH product offers convenience. A home-cooked version would likely be less processed (NOVA 1 or 2) and allow for greater control over specific ingredients and sodium levels. While this product provides similar macro and micronutrients, the degree of processing is the main difference.
What is 'tapioca maltodextrin' and why is it in the ingredient list?
Tapioca maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from tapioca starch and is often used as a thickener, filler, or flavor carrier in processed foods. In this SWEET EARTH product, it's listed within the vegetable and mushroom broths, contributing to their texture and stability. While generally recognized as safe, its presence is a marker of the product's ultra-processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for this meal?
The declared serving size for SWEET EARTH Provencal Lentils is 9 ounces. This is a single-serving entree designed to be consumed in one sitting. For most adults, this portion provides a moderate amount of calories (approximately 290 calories per serving) and contributes to daily nutrient needs without being excessively large.
Are there other similar prepared meals I should consider?
Yes, there are many other prepared meal options available. For example, brands like Amy's Kitchen offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan frozen meals. When comparing, look at the ingredient list for processing level, sodium content, and the presence of beneficial nutrients like fiber and vitamins. Each brand will have different formulations impacting their FoodScore.