# Old El Paso Refried Beans, Traditional

> Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop.

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** Old El Paso
- **Retailer listed:** Foodtown
- **Category:** International & World Foods
- **Size:** 16 oz
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/old-el-paso-refried-beans-traditional-16-oz
- **Slug:** `old-el-paso-refried-beans-traditional-16-oz`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods

Contains industrial ingredients like hydrogenated lard and added sugar and is a shelf-stable, ready-to-eat formulated product, fitting NOVA group 4 ultra-processed classification.

## Review

Old El Paso Refried Beans, Traditional (16 oz) sits on the canned and shelf-stable beans aisle, often near other Tex-Mex staples like salsa, tortillas, enchilada sauce and canned chili. Shoppers reach for it on busy weeknights, for game-day spreads, or when stocking pantry basics for quick taco nights and potlucks. The product positions itself as convenient, family-friendly Mexican-inspired fare from a well-known, mainstream brand that leans on tradition and approachable flavor rather than artisanal claims. Packaging typically shows warm, homey imagery and the Old El Paso logo, signaling easy weeknight meals; it does not carry organic certification, and is not primarily marketed as a health food, though label language and serving suggestions may create a mild health halo by highlighting beans as a protein source. In plain processing terms, this is a commercially processed, ready-to-serve refried bean product stabilized for shelf life and convenience. Sensory notes: spoonable, smooth-creamy with a gentle graininess from pinto beans, savory and slightly fatty from added lard, a touch of tomato and mild spices like cumin and garlic, and a faint sweetness. The 16 oz metal can or similarly shelf-stable container invites simple rituals—heat on the stove or microwave, spread onto tortillas, scoop with chips, or stir into casseroles and rice bowls. It plays a supporting role in American home kitchens, promising fast, familiar flavor when cooks want a no-fuss side or base for improvisation.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 0.5 cup
- **Servings per container:** 4
- **Calories:** 90
- **Total fat:** 1.5g (2% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 0.5g (3% DV)
- **Sodium:** 450mg (20% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 13g (5% DV)
- **Dietary fiber:** 3g (11% DV)
- **Total sugars:** 1g
- **Protein:** 5g

## Ingredients

Cooked Pinto Beans, Water, Contains 2% or Less of: Lard, Salt, Tomato Paste, Cumin, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Chili Pepper, Hydrogenated Lard, Sugar.

## Flagged ingredients

- **lard** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **hydrogenated lard** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** game-day-prep, weekend-brunch, meal-prep-sunday
- **Vibes:** convenient, comforting, nostalgic

## FAQ

### Is the refried beans healthy?

Well, 'healthy' can mean different things depending on your goals! The Old El Paso Refried Beans pack a decent punch with 5g of protein and only 90 calories per serving, making them a solid choice for a quick meal. Just keep in mind the sodium content is on the higher side at 450mg per half-cup, so if you’re watching your salt intake, you might want to enjoy these in moderation.

### Are the refried beans vegan?

Not quite! These beans include lard, which is rendered pig fat, making them unsuitable for vegans. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, keep an eye out for brands that specifically label their products as vegan.

### Are the refried beans gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Old El Paso Refried Beans are gluten-free, so they can be a safe choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just make sure to check for cross-contamination if you're particularly sensitive!

### Do these beans contain seed oils?

Yes, they do contain hydrogenated lard, which is a type of fat that can be a bit of a mixed bag. While it’s not a seed oil per se, hydrogenated fats can be a concern for some due to their processing methods. However, in moderation, it’s not something to overly stress about in the context of an occasional meal.

### Do the refried beans have artificial sweeteners?

Nope, no artificial sweeteners here! The ingredient list is pretty straightforward, so you can enjoy these beans without worrying about any sneaky sweeteners trying to crash the party.

### Are the refried beans high in sugar?

Not at all! With only 1g of total sugars per serving and no added sugars, these beans are definitely on the low-sugar side. It's a nice option if you're looking to keep your sugar intake in check while enjoying a tasty meal.

### What are some healthier alternatives to these beans?

If you're looking for a healthier spin, you might consider making your own refried beans from scratch using fresh pinto beans, spices, and a healthy fat like avocado oil. Alternatively, there are brands that offer organic, low-sodium, or vegan refried beans that could fit your dietary preferences better.

### Can kids eat these refried beans?

Definitely! Kids can enjoy these beans as a protein-rich addition to their meals, especially in tacos or burritos. Just keep an eye on the sodium content to ensure it fits into a balanced diet for your little ones.

### Are the refried beans good for weight loss?

They can be part of a weight loss plan, especially since they provide protein and fiber to help you feel full. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as the sodium might not make them the best choice for everyone, particularly if you're aiming for a lower-salt diet.

### Are these beans ultra-processed?

While they are processed, calling them 'ultra-processed' might be a stretch. They contain a few ingredients that are common in processed foods, like lard and salt, but they don’t have artificial preservatives or dyes. So, while they're not the most 'natural' option out there, they can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

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