BUSH'S Maple & Cured Bacon Baked Beans 16 oz
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product is ultra-processed, which limits its potential health score. While it contains beneficial navy beans, it also includes refined sugar, cured bacon, and caramel color, which are associated with health concerns. The presence of natural flavors further contributes to its processing level, impacting the overall rating.
Key ingredients 10
Prepared navy beansGood
Navy beans are a good source of protein and fiber, supporting digestive health and providing essential nutrients. They are minimally processed and retain their natural nutritional profile. Compared to other legumes, they offer a balanced nutrient composition.
Benefits
Rich in protein and fiber, which support digestive health and provide essential nutrients.
Maple syrupGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
High sugar content can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential metabolic issues.
Benefits
Contains trace minerals and antioxidants, offering slight nutritional benefits over refined sugar.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food, but excessive intake can lead to health issues. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. Moderation is key to avoiding potential negative health impacts.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in foods.
Modified corn starchNeutral
Modified corn starch is used as a thickening agent in processed foods. It is highly processed but generally considered safe for consumption. It provides no significant nutritional value.
Benefits
Acts as a thickening agent, improving texture in food products.
Onion powderNeutral
Onion powder is a dehydrated form of onion, used for flavoring. It retains some of the nutritional benefits of fresh onions, such as antioxidants. However, it is used in small quantities, limiting its impact.
Benefits
Provides flavor and some antioxidants, similar to fresh onions.
Autolyzed yeast extractNeutral
Autolyzed yeast extract is used to enhance flavor, particularly umami, in processed foods. It contains glutamates, which can enhance taste but may cause sensitivity in some individuals. It is a processed ingredient with no significant nutritional value.
Risks
May cause sensitivity in individuals sensitive to glutamates.
Benefits
Enhances flavor, particularly umami, in food products.
SugarBad
Refined sugar contributes to increased calorie intake without providing essential nutrients. It is associated with various health issues such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. Excessive consumption can lead to negative health outcomes.
Risks
High intake of refined sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
Cured baconBad
Cured bacon is high in saturated fats and sodium, which can contribute to cardiovascular issues. It is processed with nitrates and nitrites, which are linked to health risks. Regular consumption may increase the risk of chronic diseases.
Risks
High in saturated fats and sodium, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease and hypertension.
Benefits
Provides flavor and some protein, but benefits are outweighed by health risks.
Caramel colorBad
Caramel color is a food additive used for coloring, with no nutritional value. Some types of caramel color may contain harmful compounds like 4-MEI. It is a processed ingredient with potential health concerns.
Risks
May contain 4-MEI, a compound linked to cancer in animal studies.
Natural flavorsBad
Natural flavors are used to enhance taste but are highly processed and lack transparency. They can contain a variety of compounds, some of which may not be disclosed. This lack of transparency and processing raises health concerns.
Risks
Lack of transparency in composition may pose unknown health risks.
Benefits
Enhances flavor in food products, but benefits are minimal.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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