Trader Joe's Korean Beefless Bulgogi
Why It Scored This Way
A mixed nutrition profile and more processed formulation give this product some useful qualities, but also meaningful limitations.
- Protein
- Fiber
- Sodium
- Added Sugar
Verdict
Trader Joe's Korean Beefless Bulgogi is a pre-marinated, soy-based meat alternative. Its main strength is a high protein content, while its main tradeoff is the added sugar in the marinade. Overall, it is a flavor-dense convenience food for those seeking a quick plant-based main.
How to Use This
Best included occasionally, a few times per month, within a balanced diet and in controlled portions. Serve it over steamed brown rice with a side of sautéed bok choy and sliced cucumbers for a complete bowl.
Nutrition Overview
The label shows a strong protein and fiber presence, though these are offset by a high sodium count and sugar. The calorie density is moderate for a prepared plant-based protein.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 230 cal | Per serving |
| Total Fat | 11g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Sodium | 580mg | 25% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g | 18% |
| Total Sugars | 6g | — |
| Added Sugars | 6g | 12% |
| Protein | 16g | — |
| Iron | 5.3mg | 30% |
Ingredient Analysis
The base consists of textured soy protein and soybean oil, combined with a sauce made from sugar, soy sauce, and fruit purees. The use of modified cornstarch and industrial gums like guar and xanthan creates a formulated, highly processed texture and glaze.
Ingredients
WATER, SAUCE (SUGAR, WATER, SOY SAUCE [WATER, SOYBEANS, WHEAT, SALT], PEAR PUREE, ONION, GARLIC, APPLE PUREE, CARAMELIZED SUGAR SYRUP [SUGAR, WATER], MODIFIED CORNSTARCH, GINGER, GREEN ONION EXTRACT [WATER, GREEN ONIONS, MALTODEXTRIN, SALT, PECTINASE], DEXTRIN, BLACK PEPPER, GUAR GUM, XANTHAN GUM), TEXTURED SOY PROTEIN (SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE, RICE FLOUR, WHEAT GLUTEN, COCOA POWDER), SOYBEAN OIL.
