Gardein Crispy Chick'n, Mandarin Orange
Why It Scored This Way
Weak nutritional value, significant processing, or both make this product less supportive of a health-focused diet.
- Protein
- Saturated Fat
- Sodium
- Added Sugar
Verdict
Gardein Crispy Chick'n, Mandarin Orange is a breaded, plant-based meat alternative with a citrus-flavored coating. Its main strength is a solid protein content, while its main tradeoff is a high amount of added sugar. Overall, it serves as a flavor-forward centerpiece for a quick meal.
How to Use This
Best kept to limited use within a balanced diet, in controlled portions and not as a routine choice. Pair it with steamed broccoli and brown rice for a complete stir-fry bowl.
Nutrition Overview
The profile is defined by a high concentration of added sugars and moderate sodium, though it remains low in saturated fat. While it provides a meaningful amount of protein, there is very little fiber present.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 260 | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 7g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | — |
| Sodium | 590mg | 26% |
| Total Carbs | 36g | 13% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 2% |
| Total Sugars | 19g | — |
| Added Sugars | 18g | 36% |
| Protein | 13g | — |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 30mg | 2% |
| Iron | 2.6mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 0mg | 0% |
Ingredient Analysis
The product is built from a base of wheat flour, soy protein isolate, and vital wheat gluten. The citrus coating and breading introduce a high level of processing, utilizing modified starches for texture and titanium dioxide for color.
Ingredients
Water, Sugar, Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Soy Protein Isolate, Vital Wheat Gluten, Canola Oil, Distilled Vinegar, Contains 2% or Less of: Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt), Rice Flour, Modified Potato Starch, Fruit Puree (Water, Mandarin Orange Juice Concentrate, Tangerine Juice Concentrate), Salt, Methylcellulose, Sunflower Oil, Corn Starch, Garlic Powder, Ancient Grain Flour (Khorasan Wheat), Salted Sake (Water, Rice, Salt), Potato Starch, Natural Flavors, Spices, Yeast Extract, Titanium Dioxide (Color), Oil of Orange, Leavening (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Monocalcium Phosphate), Crushed Red Pepper, Lactic Acid.
