Beanfields

Rated at 2/5 green leaves, the Beanfields Jalapeño Nacho Bean Chips fall short of the cleaner food options many health-conscious consumers seek. These chips are not organic, which immediately detracts from their clean eating appeal. Furthermore, the inclusion of added sugars and various additives, specifically natural flavors and maltodextrin, significantly lower their score on our health scale.

The product’s base ingredients, black beans, navy beans, and brown rice, are commendable for their nutritional qualities, including fiber and protein. However, the potential benefits of these wholesome ingredients are overshadowed by less desirable components. The use of safflower or sunflower oil is acceptable, but the health implications of these oils can vary depending on their processing and the quantity consumed.

The seasoning blend raises concerns due to its content. Tapioca maltodextrin, a highly processed thickener and filler, is associated with spikes in blood sugar and may disrupt gut health. The presence of sugar, while possibly minimal, contributes unnecessary calories and may affect blood sugar levels. The term “natural flavors” is ambiguous, often encompassing a range of substances that are not always transparent to the consumer, hence its negative impact on the product’s score.

Although the chips are made with non-GMO ingredients, which is a positive aspect, this alone is not enough to offset the other less favorable ingredients. The product’s overall composition suggests that while it may offer a slightly better alternative to traditional snack chips, it is still far from the ideal of clean eating.

Health-conscious individuals may want to consider other snack options that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid added sugars, and omit ambiguous additives entirely. The Beanfields Jalapeño Nacho Bean Chips have room for improvement and do not align closely with the goals of consumers striving for a diet consisting of cleaner, less processed food items.