Near you
Kirkland Signature is carried at Costco stores. Find one within 25 miles.
At a glance
Summary
The Italian Style Beef Meatballs contain ground beef, which is a beneficial source of protein and essential nutrients. However, the presence of enriched bleached wheat flour and bread crumbs indicates a moderate level of processing. The product's processing level limits its score, and the inclusion of refined ingredients like enriched flour further impacts its healthiness.
Key ingredients 9
Ground BeefGood
Ground beef is a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. It provides a complete amino acid profile beneficial for muscle maintenance and growth. The quality of the beef can vary based on the animal's diet and living conditions.
Risks
Excessive consumption of red meat may be linked to increased risks of certain health conditions, such as heart disease and colorectal cancer.
Benefits
Provides essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, which are crucial for energy production and neurological function.
NiacinGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and overall cellular health.
RiboflavinGood
Essential B vitamin — beneficial micronutrient.
Benefits
Essential for energy production and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a processing aid and does not contribute significant nutritional value. It helps in maintaining moisture and texture in the product. There are no health concerns associated with water in this context.
See more about Water →Bread CrumbsNeutral
Bread crumbs are used as a filler and binder in meatballs, providing texture and volume. They are typically made from refined wheat flour, which offers minimal nutritional benefits. The presence of gluten may be a concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Risks
May contain gluten, which can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Benefits
Provides texture and helps bind the meatballs together.
Enriched Bleached Wheat FlourNeutral
Enriched bleached wheat flour is a refined flour that has been treated to improve texture and appearance. It is enriched with vitamins and minerals like niacin and iron to replace nutrients lost during processing. The bleaching process does not significantly impact health but may reduce some nutritional content.
Risks
Contains gluten and may contribute to blood sugar spikes due to its refined nature.
Benefits
Enrichment adds back some nutrients like iron and B vitamins lost during processing.
Reduced IronNeutral
Reduced iron is added to enriched flour to prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is a common fortification practice to enhance the nutritional profile of refined grains. The bioavailability of iron in this form may be lower compared to heme iron from animal sources.
Risks
Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, but this is unlikely from typical consumption levels.
Benefits
Helps prevent iron deficiency anemia by contributing to daily iron intake.
Thiamine MononitrateNeutral
Thiamine mononitrate is a synthetic form of vitamin B1 used to fortify foods. It is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. In this product, it is used to enhance the nutritional value of the flour.
Benefits
Supports energy production and nerve function.
Folic AcidNeutral
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate used to fortify foods and prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy. It is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. In this product, it is used to enhance the nutritional profile of the flour.
Risks
Excessive intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms, but this is unlikely from typical consumption levels.
Benefits
Supports DNA synthesis and is crucial for fetal development during pregnancy.
Processing
Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play