KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score, despite contributions from fiber and protein.
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine has a FoodScore of 45/100.
It provides 3g of fiber and 6.32g of protein per 100g.
A significant concern is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is ultra-processed.
This product offers a convenient option but differs nutritionally from a home-cooked meal.
Consider pairing with fresh vegetables to enhance overall nutrient intake.
Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
3g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
6.32g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
233.83mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3g)+3
Protein (6.3g)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The most significant factor influencing this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a 10-point penalty. Despite this, the product does offer some nutritional benefits. It provides 3g of fiber per 100g, contributing +3 points to its score, and 6.32g of protein per 100g, adding +2 points. The ingredient list includes whole grains like Kashi Pilaf (oats, brown rice, rye, hard red wheat, triticale, buckwheat, dehulled barley, sesame seeds), which contribute to the fiber content. However, the presence of multiple processed ingredients and additives, such as rice starch and "natural flavor from sunflower oil," aligns with its ultra-processed designation. While it contains 0g of added sugar and a moderate 233.83mg of sodium per 100g, the overall formulation is more complex than a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, which would typically score higher due to minimal processing and fewer added components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kashi steam meal chicken fettuccine actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This KASHI Steam Meal provides 3g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also support feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management. While this meal contributes to fiber intake, it's beneficial to supplement with additional whole fruits and vegetables throughout the day to meet recommended daily targets.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 6.32g of protein per 100g, this KASHI meal can help you meet your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. The protein in this meal comes from sources like cooked white chicken and edamame. Incorporating adequate protein into meals can also help with satiety, making it a useful component of a balanced diet.
Convenient Meal Option
This KASHI Steam Meal offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals. When time is limited, having a prepared option that provides some fiber and protein can be a practical choice. While it is an ultra-processed food, it can serve as an alternative to less nutritious fast-food options, provided it is consumed as part of an overall balanced dietary pattern that emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods.
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score, despite contributions from fiber and protein.
How to eat it
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine is designed as a single-serving, microwaveable meal, commonly consumed for lunch or dinner when a quick option is needed. The entire package constitutes one serving. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional profile within your daily intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this meal with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of the portion size; the entire package is one serving, and consuming multiple servings would significantly increase calorie and sodium intake.
For a more balanced meal, you could add a small portion of fresh fruit as a dessert to provide additional vitamins and natural sweetness.
If you frequently rely on prepared meals, try to alternate with home-cooked meals made from whole ingredients to reduce overall consumption of ultra-processed foods.
Consider this as an occasional convenience meal rather than a daily staple to ensure a varied and nutrient-dense diet.
Things to keep in mind
This KASHI Steam Meal contains several common allergens, including wheat, soy, and sesame seeds, as declared in the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of coconut cream also indicates a tree nut allergen. While the sodium content of 233.83mg per 100g is moderate, consuming the entire package (which is a larger serving size than 100g) will result in a higher total sodium intake, which individuals monitoring their sodium for blood pressure management should be aware of. The product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which is a general caution for frequent consumption, as diets high in ultra-processed foods have been associated with various health concerns.
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating it is a decent option. It provides some fiber (3g/100g) and protein (6.32g/100g). However, it is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), which means it contains ingredients and additives not typically found in a home kitchen. While it can fit into a balanced diet occasionally, it's not a primary source of whole, unprocessed nutrients.
How does KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine compare to a home-cooked meal?
Compared to a home-cooked chicken fettuccine made from whole ingredients, the KASHI Steam Meal is generally more processed. A home-cooked version would likely have a higher FoodScore due to minimal processing and control over ingredients like fats and sodium. While the KASHI meal offers convenience, a homemade meal typically provides a broader spectrum of micronutrients and fewer additives.
What is "Kashi Pilaf" in the ingredient list?
Kashi Pilaf is a blend of whole grains including oats, brown rice, rye, hard red wheat, triticale, buckwheat, dehulled barley, and sesame seeds. This blend contributes to the product's fiber content. The inclusion of these whole grains is a positive aspect of the ingredient profile.
How much of this KASHI meal should I eat?
The serving size for this product is one package. Consuming the entire package provides the nutrient values listed. To maintain a balanced diet, consider this as one component of a meal and supplement with fresh fruits or vegetables to increase overall nutrient density and variety.
Are there any artificial ingredients in this KASHI Steam Meal?
The ingredient list does not explicitly declare artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. However, it does contain "natural flavor from sunflower oil" and "rice starch," which are processed ingredients. The NOVA 4 classification indicates it is an ultra-processed food, meaning it contains multiple processed ingredients and additives that differentiate it from minimally processed foods.
How does KASHI compare to Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice meals?
KASHI Steam Meal Chicken Fettuccine, with its FoodScore of 45, is comparable to many other frozen prepared meals from brands like Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice. Nutritional profiles can vary significantly across individual SKUs within these brands. It's always best to check the specific nutrition facts and ingredient list for each product to make an informed comparison based on your dietary needs.