HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n scores 50/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering a good source of protein and fiber.
This HEALTHY CHOICE meal scores 50/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 7.25g of protein and 2.7g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a higher degree of industrial processing.
Compared to a home-cooked meal, it has a higher sodium content at 195.04mg per 100g.
This meal can be a convenient option when time for meal preparation is limited.
Scores +3 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
2.7g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
7.25g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.8g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
195.04mg
8% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.7g)+2
Protein (7.3g)+3
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 50
The HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n receives a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, categorizing it as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of positive nutritional contributions and factors associated with processing. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its protein content, providing 7.25g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also receives points for its fiber content, with 2.7g per 100g. However, a significant penalty is applied due to its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food. Ingredients like soy protein isolate and vital wheat gluten are characteristic of this classification, as they are derived from whole foods through industrial processes. While it contains a modest 0.8g of added sugar per 100g and 1.91g total fat, these do not significantly impact the score negatively. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product contains more processed components and a higher sodium level, which is typical for many prepared meals.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in healthy choice gardein mandarin crispy chick'n actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Protein Intake
This HEALTHY CHOICE meal provides 7.25g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Including adequate protein in meals can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. For individuals seeking plant-based protein sources, the Gardein Chick'n strips, made from soy protein isolate and vital wheat gluten, offer a convenient option.
Source of Dietary Fiber
With 2.7g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and support a healthy gut microbiome. The inclusion of cooked multigrains like brown rice, red rice, and quinoa, along with vegetables such as sweet potatoes and chard, contributes to this fiber content. Adequate fiber intake is also associated with better blood sugar management and cholesterol levels.
Contains Diverse Vegetables
The meal incorporates a variety of vegetables including sweet potatoes, onions, yellow bell peppers, chard, and kale. This diversity means a broader spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. While the overall micronutrient percentages are modest (e.g., 4% DV for potassium, 3% DV for Vitamin C and A), the presence of these ingredients adds nutritional value beyond just macronutrients. Consuming a range of vegetables is a key recommendation for a balanced diet.
HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n scores 50/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering a good source of protein and fiber.
How to eat it
This HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n is designed as a single-serving, convenient meal. It's typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner when time for cooking from scratch is limited. The entire package constitutes one meal portion.
To boost the overall nutrient density, consider adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette to increase vegetable intake.
Pair this meal with a piece of fruit like an apple or orange to add natural sweetness and additional fiber.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout your day to manage total daily intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with soy or wheat allergies should be aware that this product contains both ingredients, as listed in the Gardein Chick'n Strips. The product also contains natural flavors, which can be a concern for some individuals sensitive to undisclosed flavor components, though they are generally recognized as safe. While the sodium content at 195.04mg per 100g is not excessively high for a single serving, it's important to consider it within the context of your daily sodium limit, especially for those managing blood pressure. The NOVA 3 classification indicates it is a processed food, meaning it has undergone significant industrial modification, which some consumers prefer to limit in their diet.
Is HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n a good source of protein?
Yes, this meal provides 7.25g of protein per 100g, which is a decent amount for a single serving. The protein primarily comes from the Gardein Chick'n Strips, made from soy protein isolate and vital wheat gluten, contributing to satiety and muscle support.
How does HEALTHY CHOICE Gardein Mandarin Crispy Chick'n compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as those from Lean Cuisine, this HEALTHY CHOICE option offers a comparable convenience factor. It stands out with its plant-based 'chick'n' and a good fiber content from multigrains and vegetables, which can be a benefit for those seeking more plant-forward choices.
What does 'Gardein Chick'n Strips' mean in the ingredient list?
The 'Gardein Chick'n Strips' are a plant-based protein alternative made primarily from water, soy protein isolate, and vital wheat gluten. These ingredients are processed to create a texture and flavor similar to chicken, offering a vegetarian option for the meal.
Can I eat this HEALTHY CHOICE meal every day?
While this meal offers protein and fiber, it is a processed food (NOVA 3). For optimal nutrition, it's generally recommended to vary your diet with a wider range of whole, unprocessed foods. Incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins alongside convenient options like this can help ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.
Is this meal suitable for someone trying to limit added sugar?
This HEALTHY CHOICE meal contains a relatively low amount of added sugar, at 0.8g per 100g. This makes it a reasonable choice for individuals monitoring their added sugar intake, especially when compared to other prepared meals that might have significantly higher sugar content in their sauces.