THE PIONEER WOMAN ZUCCHINI CHIPS WITH SWEET & SOUR SAUCE THICK CUT ZUCCHINI COATED IN A CRISPY SEASONED BREADING WITH A SIDE OF TASTY SWEET & SOUR SAUCE, ZUCCHINI CHIPS WITH SWEET & SOUR SAUCE
THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips with Sweet & Sour Sauce scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
This product received a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
With 320mg of sodium per 100g, this snack contributes significantly to daily sodium intake.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, differing from whole food snacks.
Compared to air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, it offers less fiber and more sodium.
Consider this product as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -1 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
1.3g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
4g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.93g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
320mg
14% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips with Sweet & Sour Sauce achieves a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a 10-point penalty. While zucchini is the primary ingredient, the extensive processing, including the breading and batter ingredients such as bleached wheat flour, yellow corn flour, and modified corn starch, significantly alters its nutritional matrix. Per 100g, the product contains 320mg of sodium, which is a moderate amount that can contribute to daily intake goals. The fiber content is low at 1.3g per 100g, and protein is 4g per 100g. Compared to a baseline of air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, this product offers less fiber and a higher degree of processing, making it a less nutrient-dense option for a snack.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in the pioneer woman zucchini chips with sweet & sour sauce thick cut zucchini coated in a crispy seasoned breading with a side of tasty sweet & sour sauce, zucchini chips with sweet & sour sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Zucchini
This product does contain zucchini, which is a vegetable. While the zucchini is processed and coated, it still contributes to the overall food matrix. Including vegetables in the diet is generally beneficial, and for individuals who may struggle to consume enough vegetables, this product offers a way to incorporate a vegetable component, albeit in a highly processed form. It is important to consider the overall nutritional context of the product.
Provides Some Protein
With 4g of protein per 100g, THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips offer a modest amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and satiety. While not a primary protein source, this contribution can be a small part of a balanced snack when combined with other protein-rich foods. This can help in feeling fuller for longer compared to snacks devoid of protein.
Low in Trans Fat
This product contains 0g of trans fat per 100g, which is a positive aspect. Limiting trans fat intake is important for cardiovascular health. The absence of trans fats aligns with current dietary recommendations to reduce the risk of heart disease. Consumers can be assured that this specific type of unhealthy fat is not present in the product's formulation.
THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips with Sweet & Sour Sauce scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
How to eat it
THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips are typically consumed as a snack or a side dish. They are designed for convenience, often heated and eaten on their own. Given their ultra-processed nature, portion control is key to fitting them into a balanced dietary pattern.
Pair these zucchini chips with a fresh salad or raw vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Consider serving a smaller portion alongside a lean protein source like grilled chicken or fish to enhance satiety.
To reduce overall sodium intake, try making your own sweet and sour sauce with less added sugar and sodium, or use a low-sodium dipping alternative.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips contain several common allergens, including wheat, milk, soy, and eggs, as declared in the ingredient list. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of bleached wheat flour and other refined grains contributes to its ultra-processed classification. While the added sugar content is low at 0.93g per 100g, the overall sodium content of 320mg per 100g is moderate and should be considered, especially for individuals monitoring their sodium intake.
Is THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips with Sweet & Sour Sauce healthy?
With a FoodScore of 40/100, this product is categorized as 'Poor.' It is an ultra-processed food with moderate sodium and low fiber. While it contains zucchini, the extensive processing and added ingredients mean it does not offer the same nutritional benefits as whole, unprocessed vegetables.
How does THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips compare to other frozen vegetable snacks?
Compared to some other frozen vegetable snacks, such as plain frozen broccoli or green beans, THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips are significantly more processed. For instance, a product like Birds Eye Steamfresh Broccoli Florets would have a much higher FoodScore due to its minimal processing and higher nutrient density. This product's breading and sauce contribute to its lower nutritional score.
What is 'bleached wheat flour' and why is it in this product?
Bleached wheat flour is a refined grain that has been treated to whiten it and alter its baking properties. It is used in the breading and batter of these zucchini chips to create a crispy texture. From a nutritional standpoint, bleached wheat flour has had many of its beneficial nutrients, like fiber and some vitamins, removed during processing.
What is a reasonable portion size for these zucchini chips?
The declared serving size is 2 pieces, which is 60g. Given the product's nutritional profile, sticking to this portion size is recommended to manage calorie and sodium intake. For a more filling and nutritious snack, consider combining this portion with fresh, unprocessed foods.
Can I eat THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips if I have a gluten sensitivity?
No, this product contains bleached wheat flour and enriched flour, which are sources of gluten. Individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid THE PIONEER WOMAN Zucchini Chips with Sweet & Sour Sauce to prevent adverse reactions.