Gardenburger Veggie Burgers Original 10oz
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite containing several whole food ingredients like brown rice, mushrooms, and oats. The presence of additives such as natural flavors, modified vegetable gum, and soy lecithin, which are highly processed, further impacts the rating. While it includes beneficial ingredients, the overall processing level and use of additives reduce its healthiness.
Key ingredients 22
Cooked brown riceGood
Brown rice is a whole grain that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining its bran and germ. This contributes to better digestion and sustained energy release.
Benefits
Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.
Button mushroomsGood
Button mushrooms are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain antioxidants that may support immune function. Their umami flavor enhances the taste profile of dishes.
Benefits
Provides antioxidants and essential nutrients, supporting immune health and adding flavor.
Rolled oatsGood
Rolled oats are a whole grain rich in fiber and beta-glucans, which can help lower cholesterol. They are minimally processed, preserving their nutritional value. Oats provide a slow release of energy, beneficial for blood sugar control.
Benefits
Rich in fiber and beta-glucans, supporting heart health and blood sugar control.
Mozzarella cheeseGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
High in saturated fat, which may impact heart health if consumed in excess.
Benefits
Provides protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function.
OnionsGood
Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may support heart health. They are a natural source of flavor and nutrients. Onions have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit overall health.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, supporting heart health and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Hydrated wheat bulgurGood
Bulgur is a whole grain that is high in fiber and nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional profile. Bulgur supports digestive health and provides a good source of plant-based protein.
Risks
Contains gluten, which may be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Benefits
High in fiber and nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing plant-based protein.
Crimini mushroomsGood
Crimini mushrooms are nutrient-dense and provide antioxidants and B vitamins. They have a rich flavor that enhances culinary dishes. Their nutrient profile supports immune function and overall health.
Benefits
Provides antioxidants and B vitamins, supporting immune function and enhancing flavor.
Garlic powderGood
Garlic powder provides flavor and potential health benefits similar to fresh garlic. It contains allicin, which may support heart health and immune function. The drying process preserves its beneficial compounds.
Benefits
Contains allicin, supporting heart health and immune function.
Onion powderGood
Onion powder provides concentrated flavor and nutrients similar to fresh onions. It is a convenient way to add onion flavor without moisture. The drying process retains its beneficial compounds.
Benefits
Provides concentrated flavor and nutrients, supporting overall health.
Mushroom powderGood
Mushroom powder is rich in antioxidants and nutrients, similar to whole mushrooms. It enhances flavor and provides health benefits. The drying process preserves its beneficial compounds.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, supporting immune health and enhancing flavor.
Turmeric extractGood
Turmeric extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains curcumin, which may support joint health and reduce inflammation. The extract form enhances its bioavailability and potency.
Benefits
Contains curcumin, supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.
Citric acidNeutral
Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is widely used in food processing for its acidic properties. While generally safe, it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer, extending shelf life and improving taste.
WheyNeutral
Liquid whey as a minor dairy ingredient — benign.
Risks
Contains lactose, which may be a concern for individuals with lactose intolerance.
Benefits
High-quality protein source supporting muscle growth and repair.
Malted barleyNeutral
Malted barley is used for its flavor and as a source of enzymes in food processing. It is a natural ingredient but may contain gluten. Its primary role is flavor enhancement rather than nutrition.
Risks
Contains gluten, which may be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Benefits
Provides flavor and enzymes, enhancing the taste and texture of foods.
Annatto colorNeutral
Annatto is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow to orange hue in foods. While generally safe, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides natural coloring without synthetic additives.
Malted barley flourNeutral
Malted barley flour is used for its enzymatic properties and flavor. It is a natural ingredient but contains gluten. Its role is primarily functional in baking and flavor enhancement.
Risks
Contains gluten, which may be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and provides enzymatic properties in baking.
Guar gumNeutral
Guar gum is used as a thickening agent in food products. It is derived from guar beans and is high in soluble fiber. While generally safe, it may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to its high fiber content.
Benefits
Acts as a thickening agent and provides soluble fiber.
Annatto extractNeutral
Annatto extract is a natural colorant used to impart a yellow to orange hue. It is derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. While generally safe, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides natural coloring without synthetic additives.
Natural flavorsBad
Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents that may include various additives. They are highly processed and lack transparency in ingredient sourcing. This can be concerning for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
Risks
Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients and processing methods.
Modified vegetable gumBad
Modified vegetable gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in processed foods. It is highly processed and may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. Its use is primarily for texture, not nutrition.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to its high fiber content.
Yeast extractBad
Concentrated glutamate source — MSG-adjacent flavor enhancer.
Risks
May contain naturally occurring glutamates, which can be a concern for sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Provides B vitamins and enhances flavor with umami notes.
Soy lecithinBad
Soy lecithin is used as an emulsifier in processed foods. It is highly processed and may contain traces of soy allergens. Its primary function is to improve texture and shelf life, not nutrition.
Risks
May contain soy allergens, which can be a concern for individuals with soy allergies.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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