Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Nuggets
Why It Scored This Way
A mixed nutrition profile and more processed formulation give this product some useful qualities, but also meaningful limitations.
- Protein
- Saturated Fat
- Fiber
- Sodium
Verdict
Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Nuggets are breaded, oven-ready pieces designed to mimic traditional fast-food nuggets. Their main strength is a high protein count, while their main tradeoff is a significant amount of sodium. Overall, they function as a convenient, savory alternative for those seeking a familiar comfort food experience.
How to Use This
Best included occasionally, a few times per month, within a balanced diet and in controlled portions. Try them in a wrap with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of vegan ranch.
Nutrition Overview
The nutrition panel shows a favorable balance of low saturated fat and substantial protein, though the sodium levels are high relative to the serving size.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 190 | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 8g | 10% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Sodium | 580mg | 25% |
| Dietary Fiber | <1g | 2% |
| Total Sugars | <1g | — |
| Added Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 14g | 18% |
| Iron | 2.2mg | 10% |
Ingredient Analysis
These nuggets are formulated from a blend of wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, and soy and pea proteins. The texture and color are achieved through a highly processed mix of stabilizers, gums, and artificial colorants.
Ingredients
Water; Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid); Vital Wheat Gluten; Canola Oil; Soy Protein Isolate; Pea Protein Concentrate; Tapioca Starch; 2% or less of: Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour; Textured Wheat Protein (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Starch); Methylcellulose; Salt; Yeast Extract; Natural Flavors; Garlic Powder; Spices; Onion Powder; Dried Onion; Fructose; Leavening (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate); Paprika Extractives (Color); Pea Protein; Citric Acid; Titanium Dioxide (Color); Xanthan Gum; Lactic Acid; Sunflower Oil
