# Plant-Based Ultimate Chick'n Tenders, 15 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:** $9.29 - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/gardein-plant-based-ultimate-chickn-tenders-15-oz - **Slug:** `gardein-plant-based-ultimate-chickn-tenders-15-oz` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods Contains multiple industrial ingredients (soy protein isolate, pea protein concentrate, methylcellulose, xanthan gum, titanium dioxide, natural flavors) and is a ready-to-heat formulated product — characteristics consistent with NOVA group 4 (ultra-processed foods). ## Review You'd spot these in the frozen meat-alternative section of the grocery store or in a freezer aisle when grabbing quick dinner or game-day snacks. They feel nostalgic and indulgent — riffing on classic chicken tenders — but the long list of isolated proteins, starches, gums, methylcellulose, titanium dioxide and “natural flavors” signals heavy industrial reformulation to imitate meat texture and flavor. ## Diet flags - Vegetarian - Dairy-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 2 PIECES - **Servings per container:** 4.5 - **Calories:** 220 - **Total fat:** 11g (14% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 1g (5% DV) - **Trans fat:** 0g - **Cholesterol:** 0mg (0% DV) - **Sodium:** 560mg (24% DV) - **Total carbs:** 15g (5% DV) - **Dietary fiber:** 0.99g (4% DV) - **Total sugars:** 0.99g - **Protein:** 15g ## Ingredients WATER ENRICHED WHEAT FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID) CANOLA OIL VITAL WHEAT GLUTEN SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE PEA PROTEIN CONCENTRATE TAPIOCA STARCH 2% OR LESS OF: TEXTURED WHEAT PROTEIN (WHEAT GLUTEN, WHEAT STARCH) DEGERMINATED YELLOW CORN FLOUR METHYLCELLULOSE SALT SUNFLOWER OIL NATURAL FLAVOR YEAST EXTRACT GARLIC POWDER SPICES ONION POWDER DRIED ONION FRUCTOSE LEAVENING (SODIUM ACID PYROPHOSPHATE, SODIUM BICARBONATE) PAPRIKA EXTRACTIVES (COLOR) PEA PROTEIN TITANIUM DIOXIDE (COLOR) XANTHAN GUM CITRIC ACID LACTIC ACID. ## Flagged ingredients - **Canola Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids - **Sunflower Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids - **Methylcellulose** (emulsifier): Processed emulsifier - **Red 40** (additive): Artificial coloring - **Titanium Dioxide** (additive): Artificial coloring ## Context tags - **Occasions:** game-day-prep, movie-night, back-to-school, meal-prep-sunday - **Vibes:** nostalgic, convenient, indulgent ## FAQ ### Is the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders healthy? The Ultimate Chick'n Tenders are a tasty option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their meals, packing 15 grams of protein per serving. However, they do contain some sodium (560 mg), which might be a consideration if you're watching your salt intake. Ultimately, they can be a fun addition to a balanced diet, especially when paired with fresh veggies or whole grains. ### Are the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders vegan? Yes, the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders are vegan! They’re made from a mix of plant proteins like soy and pea protein, so you can enjoy them without any animal products. Just keep in mind that while they fit into a vegan diet, they aren't organic or non-GMO. ### Are the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders gluten-free? Nope, these tenders are not gluten-free. They contain wheat flour and vital wheat gluten, which means they're definitely off the menu if you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you're looking for gluten-free options, there are plenty of alternatives made with rice or chickpea flour. ### Do the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders contain seed oils? Yes, the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders contain canola oil and sunflower oil, which are both considered seed oils. While some people prefer to avoid seed oils due to their omega-6 fatty acid content, they are generally recognized as safe and can be part of a balanced diet. Just remember, moderation is key! ### Do the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders have artificial sweeteners? Nope, you won’t find any artificial sweeteners in the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders. They keep it pretty straightforward when it comes to sweetness, relying on natural flavors instead. So, you can enjoy them without worrying about hidden sweeteners! ### Are the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders high in sugar? Not at all! The Ultimate Chick'n Tenders are low in sugar, with less than 1 gram per serving. This makes them a good choice if you're looking to keep your sugar intake in check, especially compared to traditional chicken tenders that might have added sugars. ### What are some healthier alternatives to the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders? If you're looking for healthier alternatives, consider baked or grilled chicken breast, or even homemade veggie nuggets made with beans and whole grains. You could also try brands that focus on whole food ingredients, like chickpea patties or lentil-based options. They might take a bit more effort to prepare, but they can be super tasty! ### Can kids eat the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders? Absolutely! The Ultimate Chick'n Tenders can be a fun and protein-packed option for kids, especially if they enjoy dippable foods. Just be sure to serve them with some veggies or a healthy side to round out the meal. ### Are the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders good for weight loss? They can be a suitable option for weight loss, especially if you’re looking for a high-protein snack or meal component. Just keep an eye on portion sizes and pair them with lots of veggies to keep the meal balanced. Remember, it’s all about moderation and making sure your overall diet is nutrient-rich! ### Are the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders ultra-processed? Yes, the Ultimate Chick'n Tenders are considered ultra-processed due to their ingredient list, which includes various additives and refined ingredients. While they’re not the same as whole, minimally processed foods, they can still fit into a balanced diet if enjoyed occasionally. 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