WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing a notable amount of protein.
WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken has a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
Each 100g serving contributes 761.9mg of sodium, which is a significant amount.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
It provides 16.67g of protein per 100g, a positive nutritional aspect.
This fried chicken contains 0g of fiber and 0g of added sugar.
Scores -4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
16.67g
33% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
761.9mg
33% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (16.7g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Sodium (761.9mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 42
WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The product's high sodium content, at 761.9mg per 100g, also negatively impacts its score. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 4.17g per 100g contributes to penalties. While the product does offer a substantial 16.67g of protein per 100g, earning a bonus, this is not enough to offset the penalties from processing and less favorable nutrients. Ingredients like modified food starch and sodium phosphates are indicative of its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this WALMART product contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and lacks the micronutrient diversity typically found in less processed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in walmart hot & spicy fried chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This WALMART fried chicken offers 16.67g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger throughout the day. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, this product can be a convenient option, though it should be balanced with other nutrient considerations.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken offers convenience for quick meals or snacks. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this product can serve as a readily available protein source. Its ease of preparation means it can be incorporated into a meal without extensive cooking, providing a practical solution for busy schedules.
Contains Iron
This product provides 1.19mg of iron per 100g, contributing 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. While not a primary source of iron, this contribution can be part of an overall diet aimed at meeting iron requirements, especially when combined with other iron-rich foods.
WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing a notable amount of protein.
How to eat it
WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken is typically consumed as a main dish or a component of a larger meal. A common portion size might be around 3-4 ounces. It is often paired with side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits, which can further impact the overall nutritional profile of the meal. The primary pitfall is often overconsumption and pairing with other less nutrient-dense foods.
To improve the nutritional balance, pair this fried chicken with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like a green salad or steamed broccoli.
Consider removing the breading to reduce intake of sodium, saturated fat, and bleached wheat flour.
Portion control is key; limit consumption to a single piece and avoid frequent intake due to its high sodium and fat content.
Instead of traditional fried sides, opt for baked sweet potato fries or a side of quinoa to add fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Balance your overall daily intake by choosing lower-sodium and lower-fat options for other meals when consuming this product.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed foods, such as modified food starch, sodium phosphates, and disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate. While generally recognized as safe, individuals sensitive to food additives may wish to limit intake. The high sodium content (761.9mg per 100g) is a significant concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The product also contains bleached wheat flour, indicating a gluten-containing ingredient, which is relevant for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. There are no specific warnings for artificial sweeteners or common allergens beyond wheat listed.
WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken scores 42/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional profile. It is an ultra-processed food high in sodium and saturated fat. While it provides protein, it lacks fiber and essential micronutrients, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption in a balanced diet.
How does WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken compare to other fried chicken brands?
Compared to other fast-food fried chicken options like KFC Original Recipe Fried Chicken, WALMART Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken shares similar nutritional challenges, including high sodium and saturated fat. Specific nutrient values vary by brand and preparation, but most commercially prepared fried chicken falls into the ultra-processed category with similar health considerations.
What is 'modified food starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in many processed foods. It is derived from starches like corn, wheat, or potato and is chemically or physically altered to improve its functional properties in food products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this fried chicken?
A reasonable portion size is typically around 3 ounces (85g), which is the declared serving size. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase your intake of calories, sodium, and saturated fat. It is best to consider this product as an occasional item rather than a daily staple to manage overall nutrient intake.
Can I make this product healthier at home?
While you cannot alter the product itself, you can make your meal healthier by pairing it with nutrient-dense sides. Instead of traditional fried sides, opt for steamed vegetables or a large salad with a light dressing. You could also try removing the skin and breading to reduce some of the fat and sodium content.