Trader Joe’s Korean Japchae Fried Rice
Why It Scored This Way
Weak nutritional value, significant processing, or both make this product less supportive of a health-focused diet.
- Moderate protein
- Meaningful fiber
- High sodium
- Added sugars
Verdict
Trader Joe’s Korean Japchae Fried Rice is a frozen prepared meal featuring a blend of white rice and sweet potato glass noodles. Its main strength is a moderate protein content, while its main tradeoff is the amount of added sugar. Overall, it is a flavor-focused convenience option for a quick dinner.
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 fresh kimchi and sliced avocado in a bowl for a more complete meal.
Nutrition Overview
The nutrition panel shows a high sodium load and a notable amount of sugar for a savory dish. These are balanced by a helpful amount of fiber and protein per serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 340 | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 4.5g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | — |
| Sodium | 840mg | 37% |
| Total Carbs | 71g | 26% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | 14% |
| Total Sugars | 7g | — |
| Added Sugars | 6g | 12% |
| Protein | 6g | — |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 20mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.7mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 230mg | 4% |
Ingredient Analysis
The product is built from white rice, sweet potato starch noodles, and a mix of vegetables including shiitake mushrooms and cabbage. The formulation is heavily influenced by a processed sauce containing corn syrup and fructose, which elevates the overall processing level.
Ingredients
WHITE RICE, SWEET POTATO GLASS NOODLES (WATER, SWEET POTATO STARCH), SAUCE (SOY SAUCE [WATER, DEFATTED SOY GRITS, SEA SALT, WHEAT], SUGAR, CORN SYRUP, FRUCTOSE, YEAST EXTRACT, WATER, BLACK PEPPER), SHIITAKE MUSHROOM, CARROT, ONION, GREEN BELL PEPPER, RED BELL PEPPER, GREEN CABBAGE, SPINACH, GREEN ONION, GARLIC, CANOLA OIL, SESAME OIL, SUGAR, SALT.
