THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugars, despite offering some protein and iron.
This product has a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 3.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its lower score.
As a NOVA 4 food, it is classified as ultra-processed.
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this SKU has a higher degree of processing.
Consider pairing with nutrient-dense toppings to improve overall meal quality.
Scores -3 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.81g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
7.02g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.5g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
315.79mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.8g)+1
Protein (7.0g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.5g)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a substantial penalty of 10 points. The product also contains 3.5g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a 2-point penalty. While the ingredient list includes whole wheat flour, the primary ingredient is enriched wheat flour, which is not a whole grain. On the positive side, the product gains 3 points for its 7.0g of protein per 100g and 1 point for its 1.8g of fiber. It also receives 2 bonus points for providing 13% DV of iron per 100g. The presence of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, alongside honey and sugar, contributes to the overall formulation complexity typical of ultra-processed foods. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this THOMAS' product contains more refined grains and a higher level of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in thomas' english muffins, honey wheat actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product contributes to daily iron intake, providing 13% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. Including sources like these English muffins can help individuals meet their iron needs, especially when combined with other iron-rich foods throughout the day. For example, pairing with a vitamin C source can enhance iron absorption.
Provides Protein
THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat offers 7.0g of protein per 100g. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for producing enzymes and hormones. While not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to the protein content of a meal or snack, especially when paired with protein-rich toppings like eggs or nut butter, helping to promote satiety and overall nutrient intake.
Convenient Grain Option
As a convenient, pre-portioned grain product, these English muffins can fit into a busy schedule. They offer a quick base for various meals, from breakfast to light lunches. The presence of some fiber (1.8g per 100g) and protein means they offer more nutritional substance than some other highly refined grain products, making them a slightly better choice for a quick carbohydrate source when time is limited.
THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugars, despite offering some protein and iron.
How to eat it
THOMAS' English Muffins are commonly consumed as a breakfast item or a light snack. A typical serving is one muffin, often toasted and topped. Be mindful of toppings, as they can significantly impact the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
Pair with lean protein sources like eggs or cottage cheese to create a more balanced meal and enhance satiety.
Top with a thin layer of avocado or nut butter for healthy fats and additional nutrients, rather than just butter or jam.
Consider using one half of the muffin for an open-faced sandwich to manage portion size and reduce carbohydrate intake.
Opt for fiber-rich toppings such as sliced fruit or vegetables to increase dietary fiber content.
When choosing spreads, look for options with no added sugar to minimize overall sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers with specific dietary concerns should note. It is made with enriched wheat flour and whole wheat flour, and contains wheat gluten, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, soy, and whey, indicating potential allergens for those with soy or dairy allergies. The presence of calcium propionate and sorbic acid are preservatives used to maintain freshness. Additionally, sucralose, an artificial sweetener, is included, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. The product's sodium content of 315.79mg per 100g should be considered by individuals monitoring their sodium intake.
THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat has a FoodScore of 44/100, which is considered 'Poor'. While it provides some protein and iron, its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of added sugar contribute to its lower score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does THOMAS' English Muffins compare to other bread products?
Compared to a generic whole-grain bread, THOMAS' English Muffins, Honey Wheat is more processed and contains added sugar and artificial sweeteners. For example, a slice of 100% whole wheat bread typically has less added sugar and is less processed. However, it may offer a different texture and culinary experience than a standard slice of bread.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and why is it used?
Enriched wheat flour is refined flour that has had certain nutrients, such as iron, niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, added back after processing. While it restores some nutrients lost during milling, it is not a whole grain. It is commonly used in many baked goods for its texture and shelf stability.
What is a reasonable portion size for these English muffins?
The declared serving size is one muffin. Sticking to this portion size helps manage calorie and carbohydrate intake. To make it a more complete meal, focus on nutrient-rich toppings rather than consuming multiple muffins, which would increase the intake of added sugars and processed ingredients.
Can I eat THOMAS' English Muffins if I'm trying to reduce sugar intake?
This product contains 3.5g of added sugar per 100g, along with honey and sucralose. If you are actively trying to reduce your sugar intake, there are other grain options with lower or no added sugars. Consider this product as an occasional choice, or balance it by avoiding other sources of added sugar in the same meal.