# Meatless Classic Meatballs, 12.7 OZ > Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop. ## Snapshot - **Brand:** GARDEIN - **Retailer listed:** Whole Foods - **Category:** meat/meat-alternatives - **Listed price:** $5.39 - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/gardein-meatless-classic-meatballs-127-oz-2 - **Slug:** `gardein-meatless-classic-meatballs-127-oz-2` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods Multiple industrial ingredients (soy protein isolate/concentrate, vital wheat gluten), binders/emulsifiers (methylcellulose), refined flours and flavor enhancers indicate extensive industrial processing and formulation to mimic meat, consistent with NOVA group 4 (ultra-processed). ## Review You'd find these in the freezer or refrigerated plant-based section, snagged for a quick weeknight spaghetti, party appetizer, or game-day spread. The product reads as comforting and nostalgic—a convenient, plant-based stand-in for classic meaty meatballs. The long list of isolates, binders (methylcellulose), refined flours and flavorings shows heavy industrial reformulation to create a meaty texture and savory profile, which is typical of ultra-processed (NOVA 4) products. ## Diet flags - Vegetarian - Dairy-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 3 MEATBALLS - **Servings per container:** 4 - **Calories:** 160 - **Total fat:** 7g (9% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 0.5g (3% DV) - **Trans fat:** 0g - **Cholesterol:** 0mg (0% DV) - **Sodium:** 370mg (16% DV) - **Total carbs:** 9g (3% DV) - **Dietary fiber:** 3g (11% DV) - **Total sugars:** 0.99g - **Protein:** 15g ## Ingredients WATER TEXTURED SOY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE CANOLA OIL VITAL WHEAT GLUTEN SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE ENRICHED WHEAT FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID) 2% OR LESS OF: METHYLCELLULOSE YEAST EXTRACT ONION POWDER SALT BARLEY MALT EXTRACT SPICES GARLIC POWDER SUGAR FENNEL NATURAL FLAVORS CRUSHED RED PEPPER YEAST. ## Flagged ingredients - **canola** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids ## Context tags - **Occasions:** game-day-prep, movie-night, meal-prep-sunday - **Vibes:** nostalgic, convenient, comforting ## FAQ ### Is the Meatless Classic Meatballs healthy? The Meatless Classic Meatballs can be a healthy option, especially if you’re looking for a high-protein alternative to traditional meatballs. With 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving, they can help keep you feeling satisfied. Just keep in mind that they do have a moderate sodium content, so if you're watching your salt intake, it’s worth considering that. ### Are the Meatless Classic Meatballs vegan? Nope, these meatballs are not vegan! They contain vital wheat gluten, which is derived from wheat, but they also include textured soy protein, which is a bit of a gray area for some folks. If you’re strictly vegan, you might want to explore other options that are explicitly labeled as vegan. ### Are the Meatless Classic Meatballs gluten-free? Unfortunately, these meatballs are not gluten-free. They contain both wheat flour and vital wheat gluten, which means they’re off the menu for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. But if gluten isn’t a concern for you, they can be a tasty meat alternative! ### Do the Meatless Classic Meatballs contain seed oils? Yes, these meatballs contain canola oil, which is a type of seed oil. Seed oils can be a bit controversial, but they’re commonly used in many processed foods for their cost-effectiveness and ability to enhance texture. If you're not a fan of seed oils, it might be something to consider when adding these to your cart. ### Do the Meatless Classic Meatballs contain artificial sweeteners? Nope, no artificial sweeteners here! These meatballs keep it simple without any sneaky sweeteners, so you can enjoy them without worrying about hidden sugars. The flavor mainly comes from spices and natural flavors, which is a nice touch. ### Are the Meatless Classic Meatballs high in sugar? Not at all! These meatballs are low in sugar, with less than 1 gram per serving. If you're looking to keep sugar in check, they definitely fit the bill — perfect for adding to your favorite sauce without the added sweetness. ### What are some healthier alternatives to the Meatless Classic Meatballs? If you're looking for something a bit less processed, you might try homemade lentil or chickpea meatballs. These options are often packed with whole ingredients and can be customized to your taste. You could also check out brands that offer organic or gluten-free meat alternatives if that's your jam! ### Can kids eat the Meatless Classic Meatballs? Absolutely! These meatballs can be a fun and protein-rich option for kids, especially if they’re exploring more plant-based meals. Just keep an eye on the sodium content if you're serving them often, and pair them with lots of colorful veggies for a balanced meal. ### Are the Meatless Classic Meatballs good for weight loss? They can be a good option for weight loss, especially if you're looking for a filling meal without a lot of calories. With just 160 calories per serving and a decent protein punch, they can help keep you satisfied. Just remember, balance is key — pair them with lots of veggies or a salad for a well-rounded meal. ### Are the Meatless Classic Meatballs ultra-processed? Yes, these meatballs fall into the ultra-processed category. They contain a variety of ingredients that you typically wouldn't find in a home kitchen, like methylcellulose and yeast extract. But hey, we all enjoy a little convenience sometimes, and they can fit into a balanced diet if used mindfully! ## Related products - [Seven Grain Crispy Chick'n Tenders, 9 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/gardein-seven-grain-crispy-chickn-tenders-9-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/gardein-seven-grain-crispy-chickn-tenders-9-oz-2 - [Bacon Original Recipe Meatless Bacon, 6 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/my-bacon-original-recipe-meatless-bacon-6-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/my-bacon-original-recipe-meatless-bacon-6-oz-2 - [Meatless Nuggets, 32 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/quorn-meatless-nuggets-32-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/quorn-meatless-nuggets-32-oz-2 - [Plant-Based Chicken Patties, 13.5 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/impossible-plant-based-chicken-patties-135-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/impossible-plant-based-chicken-patties-135-oz-2 - [Plant-Based Spicy Chicken Patties, 13.5 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/impossible-plant-based-spicy-chicken-patties-135-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/impossible-plant-based-spicy-chicken-patties-135-oz-2 - [Plant Based Pulled BVQ, 10 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/barvecue-plant-based-pulled-bvq-10-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/barvecue-plant-based-pulled-bvq-10-oz-2 - [Plant Based Carnitas, 10 OZ](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/barvecue-plant-based-carnitas-10-oz-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/barvecue-plant-based-carnitas-10-oz-2 - [365 by Whole Foods Market, Plant Based Chicken Chunks, 8 Ounce](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/365-by-plant-based-chicken-chunks-8-ounce-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/365-by-plant-based-chicken-chunks-8-ounce-2 ## For agents Prefer this markdown sheet over scraping the HTML page. 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