TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA achieves a FoodScore of 79/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its significant protein and fiber content, and its minimally processed nature.
This product earned a FoodScore of 79/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile.
A serving provides 7.1g of fiber and 14.3g of protein per 100g.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, aligning with healthy dietary patterns.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
This quinoa offers a versatile, nutrient-dense base for various meals.
Scores +37 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
7.1g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
14.31g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 79
TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA scores 79 out of 100, placing it in the 'Very good' category. This high score is largely due to its robust nutritional profile and simple ingredient list. The product receives significant bonuses for its fiber content, providing 7.1g per 100g, and its protein content, at 14.3g per 100g. These amounts contribute positively to satiety and overall dietary intake. Additionally, the presence of 4.29mg of iron, representing 24% DV, adds a micronutrient bonus. The ingredient list, consisting solely of ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA, means there are no added sugars, sodium, or unhealthy fats, which are common detractors in many processed foods. As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered a minimally processed culinary ingredient, further boosting its score. Compared to generic unbranded quinoa, this TRADER JOE'S product maintains the inherent nutritional benefits of quinoa without any added ingredients that would negatively impact its score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's organic tricolor quinoa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This quinoa is an excellent source of dietary fiber, with 7.1g per 100g. Adequate fiber intake is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. The fiber in quinoa also acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and contributing to a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods like this quinoa can support overall digestive function and comfort.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
With 14.3g of protein per 100g, TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA provides a substantial amount of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for producing enzymes and hormones. Its high protein content also contributes to increased satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer after meals. This can be beneficial for weight management and reducing overall calorie intake.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
This quinoa offers a notable amount of iron, providing 4.29mg per 100g, which is 24% of the Daily Value. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a key role in energy production. While it doesn't contain significant amounts of other listed micronutrients, its contribution of iron is a valuable addition to a balanced diet, particularly for individuals who may be at risk of iron deficiency.
TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA achieves a FoodScore of 79/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its significant protein and fiber content, and its minimally processed nature.
How to eat it
Quinoa is a versatile grain that can be incorporated into various meals throughout the day. It's commonly used as a base for salads, a side dish, or as an addition to soups and stews. A typical serving size is 0.25 cup (dry), which expands significantly when cooked.
Use cooked quinoa as a nutritious base for grain bowls, adding roasted vegetables, a lean protein source like chicken or beans, and a light dressing.
Incorporate quinoa into your breakfast routine by cooking it with milk or plant-based milk and topping with fruit and nuts for a fiber-rich start to your day.
Swap out white rice or pasta for quinoa as a side dish to increase your fiber and protein intake with meals.
Add cooked quinoa to soups or stews during the last few minutes of cooking to boost their nutritional value and add texture.
Things to keep in mind
TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA is a single-ingredient product, meaning it contains no common additives such as artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. It is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. There are no declared allergens on the label beyond the quinoa itself. As a whole grain, it is generally well-tolerated, but individuals sensitive to high-fiber foods might experience mild digestive discomfort if consumed in very large quantities without adequate hydration. Overall, this product presents minimal cautions for the general population.
Yes, TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA is considered a very healthy food. It scored 79/100 on FoodScore, indicating a strong nutritional profile. It is rich in protein and fiber, and contains no added sugars, sodium, or unhealthy fats, making it a beneficial addition to most diets.
How does TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA compare to other brands?
Compared to generic unbranded quinoa or other brands like Ancient Harvest, TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC TRICOLOR QUINOA offers a comparable nutritional profile. Since quinoa is a single-ingredient food, differences between brands typically relate to sourcing, organic certification, and price, rather than significant nutritional variations. This product is a solid choice nutritionally within the quinoa category.
What does 'Tricolor' mean for the quinoa?
Tricolor quinoa refers to a blend of white, red, and black quinoa grains. While there are slight textural and flavor differences between the colors, their nutritional profiles are very similar. The 'tricolor' aspect primarily offers a more appealing visual presentation and a slightly varied texture compared to single-color quinoa.
What is a reasonable portion size for quinoa?
A common dry portion size for quinoa is 0.25 cup, which yields approximately 0.75 cup cooked. This amount provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber for most individuals. Adjust portion sizes based on your individual caloric needs and dietary goals, especially if using it as a main component of a meal.
Can I use quinoa in sweet dishes?
Absolutely. While often used in savory dishes, quinoa can also be prepared for sweet applications. You can cook it with milk or a plant-based alternative and add ingredients like cinnamon, fruit, nuts, or a touch of maple syrup for a nutritious breakfast porridge or a dessert. Its mild flavor makes it adaptable to both sweet and savory preparations.