Wattie’s Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce. Nature's Super Food.
99% fat-free
99% fat free means there is only 1g of total fat in 100g of baked beans. In fact, Wattie’s Baked Beans have even less than this with only 1.2g of fat in a 210g serving. They also have virtually no saturated fat, which is the type of fat associated with higher cholesterol and heart disease risk. Beans are predominantly polyunsaturated fat, this lowers cholesterol so is better for your heart health.
Low GI (50)
Wattie’s Baked Beans have a GI of 50 which classifies them as low GI. Low GI foods are more slowly digested by your body so the energy is released over a longer period of time, they have a lower impact on your blood sugar levels and you feel full for longer. This helps delay your hunger and may help you manage your weight better. Some high fat foods can also have a low GI, but Baked Beans have a low GI and are low in fat!
High in dietary fibre
Baked Beans are a good source of dietary fibre which takes longer to breakdown so helps control our blood sugars and makes us feel full. Fibre also helps lower cholesterol and maintain a healthy digestive system.
High in protein
One of protein’s roles is to build and repair all our body tissues and organs like our muscles. It also makes you feel more satisfied after eating so it helps you control your appetite.
Source of iron
Iron helps release energy in our bodies so those who are deficient in iron often feel tired and have lower immunity. Baked beans are a good source of iron. Eat them with a vitamin C rich food, such as broccoli or orange juice to help the absorption of the iron.
Good source of folate
Folate is an essential B vitamin and is especially important for pregnant women for development of the baby. It’s also important for the health of everyone and deficiency may result in a type of anaemia.
Good source of lycopene
Baked beans are cooked and served in a rich tomato sauce which is a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant found naturally in tomatoes. Antioxidants help protect your body against damage from free radicals.
Beans in your diet – how much do we need?
According to the latest US dietary guidelines, we all need to eat up to 3 cups of beans each week. The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) also has a dietary guidance message that says: "A diet including beans may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers."
In New Zealand, the Ministry of Health recommends we eat at least one serve a day of meat, chicken, fish, eggs or legumes. It classifies baked beans as legumes, so they fit into this daily recommendation.
The Ministry of Health also recommends we get at least 3 serves of veges in our day. The tomato sauce in baked beans counts towards your vege intake with one standard serving of baked beans giving you one serve of veges.
And who are baked beans good for?
Simple. They’re good for everybody!
Young Children
The protein and iron are particularly important for growth.
School Children
Because they are low GI and high in protein and fibre, baked beans keep growing, active children sustained for longer and helps prevent those sugar slumps during the day.
Teenagers
Keep the pantry well stocked with Wattie’s Baked Beans to feed hungry teenagers – they’re nutritious, filling and won’t break the bank.
Adults
Adults enjoy the versatility of Wattie’s Baked Beans. Quick and easy to prepare as a breakfast or lunch, or as part of the main meal.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women need more protein, iron and folate which baked beans can provide.
Vegetarians
Baked beans are an excellent low-fat source of protein and iron for vegetarians.
Sportspeople
Exercise increases your need for many nutrients especially protein for muscle growth and repair. Wattie’s Baked Beans on toast make a great post- exercise meal to re-fuel your body with protein and carbohydrates.
People watching their salt and sugar intake
Wattie’s Lite Baked Beans have 33% less sodium and 35% less sugar than regular Wattie’s Baked Beans but still retain their delicious taste. They even get the Heart Foundation Tick of approval.