Mediterraneean Hummus with pita chips
Near you
Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.
Summary
This Mediterranean hummus with pita chips is a processed food with a relatively simple ingredient list, primarily consisting of garbanzo beans and enriched wheat flour. While it lacks harmful additives like artificial colors or high-fructose corn syrup, the presence of enriched flour and salt contributes to its processing level. The product's nutritional profile, with moderate protein and fat content, is balanced but does not offset the processing level constraints.
At a glance
Key ingredients 8
Garbanzo beansNeutral
Garbanzo beans are a source of plant-based protein and fiber. They are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients like folate and iron. However, they are not particularly high in any specific nutrient compared to other legumes.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber and plant-based protein, which can support digestive health and muscle maintenance.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the texture of the product. It is a basic ingredient with no nutritional value. Its presence is essential for consistency but does not contribute to the nutritional profile.
See more about Water →SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the product. It is a common additive in processed foods. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.
Risks
High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food products.
Enriched wheat flourNeutral
Enriched wheat flour is refined flour with added nutrients like iron and B vitamins. It is processed to remove the bran and germ, which reduces fiber content. The enrichment process aims to replace some lost nutrients but does not restore fiber.
Risks
May contribute to blood sugar spikes due to its refined nature.
Benefits
Provides essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins due to enrichment.
Barley malt flourNeutral
Barley malt flour is used for flavor and as a natural sweetener. It is minimally processed and retains some nutrients from barley. However, it is used in small quantities and does not significantly impact the nutritional profile.
Risks
Contains gluten, which may be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Benefits
Adds flavor and may provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
NiacinNeutral
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is added to enriched flour to improve nutritional content. It is essential for energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin. The addition is beneficial but does not significantly alter the overall nutritional profile.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and skin health.
Reduced ironNeutral
Reduced iron is added to enriched flour to prevent iron deficiency. It is a common fortification practice in processed foods. While beneficial for preventing anemia, it does not provide the same absorption efficiency as heme iron from animal sources.
Risks
Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, especially in individuals with hemochromatosis.
Benefits
Helps prevent iron deficiency anemia.
ThiaminNeutral
Thiamin, or vitamin B1, is added to enriched flour to enhance its nutritional value. It plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. The fortification helps meet daily nutritional requirements but does not significantly enhance the product's health profile.
Benefits
Essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout app
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store