FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorpreparedVAN CAMP'S· 0.5 cup

VAN CAMP'S, BAKED BEANS , HOMESTYLE, VAN CAMP'S, BAKED BEANS , HOMESTYLE

VAN CAMP'S, BAKED BEANS, HOMESTYLE scores 38/100 (Poor) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant **added sugar** content.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 38/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • A serving provides 5.6g of fiber, contributing to daily fiber intake.
  • The product contains 6.9g of added sugar and 387.32mg of sodium per 100g.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, unlike a home-cooked version.
  • Consider this product as an occasional side dish rather than a dietary staple.
  • Scores -8 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
5.6g
20% of Daily Value
Protein
4.93g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
6.9g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
387.32mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.6g)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.9g)-7
Sodium (387.3mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 38

VAN CAMP'S, BAKED BEANS, HOMESTYLE receives a FoodScore of 38 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is significantly impacted by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. The product also contains 6.9g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a -7 point penalty. Additionally, its sodium content of 387.32mg per 100g contributes a -1 point penalty. On the positive side, the product does offer 5.6g of fiber per 100g, earning a +6 point bonus. However, the benefits from fiber are largely offset by the penalties from processing, added sugar, and sodium. Ingredients like brown sugar and modified corn starch contribute to the added sugar and processing aspects. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this VAN CAMP'S product contains higher levels of added sugar and sodium, and includes various food additives typical of ultra-processed foods.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in van camp's, baked beans , homestyle, van camp's, baked beans , homestyle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This product provides 5.6g of fiber per 100g, which is a notable amount. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management. The fiber in baked beans primarily comes from the white beans themselves, a natural source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet is a key recommendation for overall well-being.

Convenient Protein Source

VAN CAMP'S baked beans offer 4.93g of protein per 100g, making them a convenient source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for various bodily functions. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to daily protein intake, especially for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets. The protein content helps to make this a more substantial side dish.

Provides Iron

A serving of these baked beans contributes 1.27mg of iron per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production in the body. While not a high source, it can help contribute to meeting daily iron needs, particularly for individuals who may be at risk of iron deficiency. Plant-based iron sources are an important part of a balanced diet.

How to eat it

VAN CAMP'S Baked Beans are typically consumed as a side dish, often alongside grilled meats, hot dogs, or during picnics and barbecues. A common serving size is 0.5 cup, which provides a moderate portion. While convenient, it's important to be mindful of the added sugar and sodium content when incorporating them into your diet.

To balance the meal, pair these baked beans with lean protein sources and a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables.
Consider mixing them with plain, unsalted canned beans to dilute the added sugar and sodium content.
Use them as a component in a larger dish, such as a bean salad or a chili, to increase the overall nutrient density.
Be mindful of portion sizes, as the sodium and added sugar can accumulate quickly with larger servings.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), meaning it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. Specifically, the inclusion of natural and artificial flavors, caramel color, and modified corn starch are indicators of this processing. Individuals sensitive to food additives may wish to limit consumption. The product also contains soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy allergies. Due to its high sodium and added sugar content, individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels should consume this product in moderation and consider it an occasional food item.

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Reader questions
Is VAN CAMP'S Baked Beans, Homestyle healthy?
VAN CAMP'S Baked Beans, Homestyle scored 38/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile. While it provides fiber and some protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant content of added sugar and sodium are nutritional drawbacks. It's best considered an occasional food item rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does VAN CAMP'S Baked Beans compare to other baked bean brands?
Compared to a brand like Bush's Best Baked Beans, the nutritional profile can vary. Consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel for added sugar and sodium content, as these are common concerns across many branded baked bean products. Some brands may offer 'reduced sodium' or 'no added sugar' varieties that could be better choices.
What is 'natural and artificial flavors' in this product?
Natural and artificial flavors are proprietary blends of ingredients used to enhance taste. Artificial flavors are chemically synthesized and do not have a natural source, while natural flavors are derived from natural sources but are still processed. Their inclusion contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for VAN CAMP'S Baked Beans?
The declared serving size is 0.5 cup. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of added sugar and sodium. Consuming larger portions frequently could lead to exceeding daily recommendations for these nutrients, especially if other meals also contribute significant amounts.
Can I reduce the sodium content of these baked beans?
While you cannot remove the sodium already present in the product, you can dilute it by mixing the baked beans with plain, unsalted cooked beans or by adding fresh, unsalted vegetables. This approach helps to spread the sodium content over a larger volume of food, reducing the per-bite intake.

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Data & references