Bushra Griffith
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos are a convenient and tasty Mexican meal option, but are they healthy? The burritos are marketed as a flavorful and spicy option, with beans, cheese, and Mexican spices wrapped in a flour tortilla. While they may be a quick and easy choice, it is important to consider the nutritional value and ingredient concerns. The product contains added sugar and unhealthy artificial trans fats, as well as ingredients derived from animals treated with antibiotics and growth promoters. With concerns about processing, sugar content, and the presence of artificial trans fats, it is worth examining the full ingredient list and nutritional information to make an informed decision about including this product in a healthy diet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cooking Instructions | Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place burritos on a baking sheet with 1" between burritos. Bake uncovered for 28 minutes. Let the product stand for 1 minute before eating. |
| Microwave (1100 watt): Place 1 burrito on a microwave-safe plate. Cook for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Let the product stand for 1 minute before eating. | |
| Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 380°F. Place 2 burritos in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 7 minutes. Let the product stand for 1 minute before eating. | |
| For food safety and quality, the internal product temperature must reach 165°F. | |
| Ingredients | Enriched Wheat Flour (with Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Beans, Vegetable Oil (Soybean, Canola, and/or Corn Oil), Cheeses (Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Cheese Product), Jalapeño Peppers, Salt, Modified Food Starch, Flavorings, Spices, Paprika, Dough Conditioners (Yeast, Wheat Gluten, Sugar, Guar Gum, Food Starch) |
| Nutrition | Concerns include calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, sodium, protein, and fiber content. |
| Contains ingredients that may contribute small amounts of unhealthy artificial trans fats (Canola Oil and Corn Oil). | |
| Contains added sugars. | |
| One or more ingredients derived from animals likely treated with antibiotics and growth promoters. |
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What You'll Learn
Artificial trans fats in canola and corn oil
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos are convenient frozen meals that can be prepared in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. While they offer a quick and easy option, it is important to consider the nutritional value and impact on your health.
Now, let's specifically discuss artificial trans fats in canola and corn oil:
Canola oil is derived from rapeseed and has been a popular choice for cooking due to its mild flavor and high smoke point. However, the process of refining canola oil reduces its nutrient content, including essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. Additionally, canola oil often undergoes hydrogenation, where hydrogen molecules are added to change its chemical structure, making it solid at room temperature and extending its shelf life. This hydrogenation process leads to the creation of artificial trans fats in the oil. While natural trans fats are found in dairy and meat products, artificial trans fats are the result of oil processing and have been linked to adverse health effects, particularly an increased risk of heart disease. As a result, many countries, including the United States, have banned the use of artificial trans fats in food products.
Corn oil, extracted from corn germ, is another commonly used vegetable oil. While it offers a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, it also contains artificial trans fats. Analytical studies have detected the presence of trans fats in corn oil, with varying amounts depending on the sample and detection method. Stir-frying corn oil has been shown to increase its trans fat content, while other cooking methods like baking, pan-frying, and frying do not significantly impact the trans fat levels.
It is worth noting that the consumption of artificial trans fats has been associated with negative health consequences. To maintain a balanced diet, it is recommended to limit the intake of processed foods containing these fats and opt for natural, whole-food sources of omega-3, such as fatty fish. While GMO foods like canola and corn oils have been deemed safe by regulators, the topic remains controversial, and individuals can choose to include or avoid them in their diets according to their preferences.
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High added sugar content
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos contain ingredients that may contribute small amounts of unhealthy artificial trans fats, such as canola oil and corn oil. In addition, the product has been classified as having moderate processing concerns. One of the ingredients of concern is sugar. While the exact amount of sugar in the burritos is not disclosed, it is listed as one of the ingredients.
According to the World Health Organization, adults should consume no more than 6 to 12 teaspoons of added sugar per day, while children should consume even less. Americans, on the other hand, average 22 teaspoons of added sugar daily. This excessive sugar consumption is attributed to the abundance of processed foods in the standard American diet, which often contain hidden sugars.
The presence of added sugar in El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos contributes to this public health concern. While the amount of sugar in the burritos may seem insignificant, it adds up when combined with other sources of added sugar in the diet. This cumulative effect of added sugar intake can lead to various health issues, including weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
It is worth noting that sugar is not an essential nutrient, and consuming added sugars provides extra calories without any nutritional benefits. Therefore, it is advisable to limit the consumption of processed foods, including El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos, to maintain a healthy diet and reduce the risk of health complications associated with excessive added sugar intake.
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Antibiotics and hormones in animal-derived ingredients
Antibiotics and hormones are used in animal-derived ingredients for a variety of purposes. While their use has raised concerns among consumers, it's important to understand the context and potential impacts on animal and human health.
Antibiotics in Animal-Derived Ingredients
Antibiotics have been used in farm animals since the 1940s, initially to treat infections. However, with the growth of the industry, antibiotics are now also used for growth promotion and improved reproduction. While antibiotics can help treat infections in animals, their overuse has led to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can be passed on to humans through the consumption of animal products. This has raised concerns about the potential harm to human health, as antibiotic-resistant bacteria may render these drugs ineffective in treating human infections.
Hormones in Animal-Derived Ingredients
Hormones, both natural and synthetic, are also used in animal-derived ingredients. Natural hormones, such as estradiol-17β, progesterone, testosterone, zeranol, trenbolone, and melengestrol acetate (MGA), are under debate for their potential human health impacts. Synthetic hormonelike substances are used for animal treatment and growth promotion, and their use is regulated with established ADIs (acceptable daily intakes) and MRLs (maximum residue limits) for food safety. However, the use of hormones has faced scrutiny due to ethical concerns and the potential for residues in animal products.
Consumer Concerns and Regulatory Considerations
The use of antibiotics and hormones in animal-derived ingredients has sparked concerns among consumers, particularly regarding their potential impact on animal welfare, human health, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In response, the number of farmers growing organic produce is increasing, as organic farming regulations limit the use of hormones and antibiotics. Regulatory bodies have also established guidelines, such as ADIs and MRLs, to manage the potential risks associated with hormonal and antibacterial growth promoters in livestock animals.
Alternatives and Recommendations
It is recommended that animal health and fertility should be improved primarily through selection, good management practices, and ethical farming methods, rather than extensive reliance on hormones and antibiotics. Good hygiene practices on farms, during food preparation, and throughout the distribution process are crucial to minimizing the transmission of food-borne pathogens. Additionally, consumers can support ethical farming practices by purchasing products from farms that prioritize the humane treatment of animals and do not use added hormones and antibiotics.
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Authentic Mexican spices
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos are a convenient, tasty, and healthy option for those craving a Mexican meal. These burritos are packed with flavourful beans, delicious cheese, and authentic Mexican spices, all wrapped in a fresh-baked flour tortilla.
Speaking of Mexican spices, they are what make Mexican cuisine so unique and loved. The indigenous herbs and spices of Mexico give its dishes their treasured flavours and aromas.
Some of the most commonly used Mexican spices include cumin, oregano, chile powders, and garlic. Cumin has a toasty, somewhat bitter taste that gives Mexican dishes a unique, irreplaceable flavour. Oregano, on the other hand, adds a fresh, earthy taste to the dishes. There are many types of oregano, such as Mexican oregano and Mediterranean oregano. Chile powders are typically made from a blend of dried, powdered chiles, cumin, and oregano, though other spices may be included. Garlic is another staple in Mexican cuisine, used in many recipes, including salsa, taco seasoning, and Spanish rice.
Other spices commonly used in Mexican dishes include cinnamon, cloves, anise, epazote, and cocoa. Cinnamon, cloves, and anise add unique dimensions of flavour to Mexican dishes, while epazote is used to flavour beans and calm any intestinal discomfort they may cause. Cocoa is used in several dishes, such as mole, a thick sauce served over chicken or turkey, to add a rich, warm flavour.
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Nutritional value
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos are a convenient, quick meal option. They are available in single-serve 5 oz packs and can be cooked in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. While they are marketed as a flavorful and spicy Mexican meal option, there are some nutritional concerns to be aware of.
Firstly, the product contains added sugar, which is not ideal for a savory food item. The World Health Organization recommends no more than 6 to 12 teaspoons of added sugar per day for adults, and children should consume even less. Excess sugar consumption is linked to various health issues, including weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Secondly, the burritos contain canola oil and corn oil, which are sources of unhealthy artificial trans fats. Trans fats are known to have adverse effects on health, including an increased risk of heart disease and higher levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol. Additionally, the product may contain fats derived from animals treated with antibiotics and artificial growth promoters, which could potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance in humans.
The burritos are also relatively high in sodium, with 1% or less salt listed as an ingredient. Excess sodium consumption can lead to high blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
On a positive note, the burritos do provide some nutritional value. They contain protein and fiber, which can help with satiety and are made with beans, a good source of plant-based protein and various vitamins and minerals.
Overall, while El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos can be a tasty and convenient option, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is important to be aware of the product's nutritional concerns and make informed choices to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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Frequently asked questions
You can cook El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. Cooking times vary depending on the appliance and whether the burrito is frozen or thawed. Refer to the official El Monterey website for specific cooking instructions.
El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos contain ingredients that may contribute small amounts of unhealthy artificial trans fats, such as canola oil and corn oil. The product also contains added sugars and ingredients derived from animals likely treated with antibiotics and growth hormones. While the burritos may not be considered the healthiest option, they can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
The ingredients in El Monterey Bean and Cheese Burritos include beans, vegetable oil (soybean, canola, and/or corn oil), cheeses (Cheddar cheese, Cheddar cheese product), modified food starch, jalapeno peppers, spices (including paprika), and dough conditioners (yeast, wheat gluten, sugar, guar gum, food starch).
