# Cuban-Inspired Beef Empanadas

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

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** WHOLE FOODS MARKET
- **Retailer listed:** Whole Foods
- **Category:** prepared-foods/prepared-meals
- **Listed price:** $6.99
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-cuban-inspired-beef-empanadas-2
- **Slug:** `whole-foods-cuban-inspired-beef-empanadas-2`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods

Although it contains whole ingredients like beef, vegetables, and olives, the product includes industrial components (palm fruit shortening, enriched flours, baking powders with chemical leaveners, citric acid, and natural flavors) and is a ready-to-eat manufactured pastry, consistent with NOVA group 4 (ultra-processed).

## Review

You’d spot these Cuban-inspired beef empanadas in the refrigerated or frozen prepared-food aisle, grabbed for a quick lunch, snack, or party platter. They feel comforting and a bit nostalgic—homey beef and olives wrapped in a flaky crust—yet are made for convenience and indulgence. The ingredient list shows industrial aids (palm shortening, enriched flour, baking agents, citric acid and “natural flavors”) and a factory-made dough texture, which are typical clues of a highly processed ready-to-eat product.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 1 ea
- **Servings per container:** 2
- **Calories:** 300
- **Total fat:** 16g (21% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 7g (35% DV)
- **Trans fat:** 0g
- **Cholesterol:** 10mg (3% DV)
- **Sodium:** 320mg (14% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 28g (10% DV)
- **Dietary fiber:** 2g (7% DV)
- **Total sugars:** 1g
- **Protein:** 7g

## Ingredients

Beef Empanada (cooked grass fed ground beef, tomato sauce [tomato puree (water, tomato paste), less than 2% of: salt, onion powder, garlic powder, citric acid, natural flavors], onions, potatoes, red bell peppers, olives [olives, water, red peppers, salt, sunflower oil, citric acid], raisins, extra virgin olive oil, capers [capers, water, vinegar, salt], cumin, garlic, salt, cornstarch, black pepper, dough [enriched wheat flour (niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid, malted barley flour), organic palm fruit shortening, water, liquid cage free whole eggs with citric acid, milk (vitamin d3) and/or whole powdered milk, deactivated yeast, aluminum free baking powder (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, corn starch, monocalcium phosphate), salt, annatto seed]).

## Flagged ingredients

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

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** weekend-brunch, game-day-prep, movie-night
- **Vibes:** nostalgic, indulgent, convenient, comforting

## FAQ

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas healthy?

Well, 'healthy' can mean different things depending on your goals! These empanadas have a decent amount of protein and are low in sugar, which is great for a quick snack or meal. However, they do have a moderate amount of saturated fat and sodium, so if you're watching those, it's good to enjoy them in moderation.

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas vegan?

Nope, these empanadas are definitely not vegan. They contain cooked grass-fed ground beef and dairy from the dough, so they’re firmly in the meat-and-cheese camp. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you might want to check out some veggie empanadas instead!

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas gluten-free?

Unfortunately, these empanadas are not gluten-free. The dough is made with enriched wheat flour, which means they’re off-limits for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. If you’re avoiding gluten, you’ll want to explore gluten-free options available in the market.

### Do the Cuban Beef Empanadas contain seed oils?

Yes, they do contain sunflower oil, which is considered a seed oil. While some folks might shy away from seed oils, they’re commonly used for cooking due to their high smoke point and mild flavor. In moderation, they’re generally seen as safe, but if you prefer to avoid them, just keep that in mind!

### Do the Cuban Beef Empanadas have artificial sweeteners?

Absolutely not! These empanadas are free from artificial sweeteners, so you can enjoy them without worrying about any hidden sugars. The only sweetness comes from natural ingredients like raisins, which add a lovely touch to the flavor profile.

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas high in sugar?

Nope, they’re low in sugar! With only 1 gram of total sugars per serving, they won’t send your blood sugar into a tailspin. This makes them a pretty good option if you’re keeping an eye on your sugar intake.

### What are some healthier alternatives to the Cuban Beef Empanadas?

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, consider homemade vegetable or bean empanadas, which can pack in more fiber and nutrients. You could also try baked empanadas instead of fried ones, or even explore whole grain options for the dough. There are plenty of delicious alternatives out there!

### Can kids eat the Cuban Beef Empanadas?

Definitely! These empanadas can make a fun and tasty meal for kids, especially if they’re fans of savory treats. Just keep an eye on portion sizes, as they can be a bit hearty, and pair them with a side of veggies or a salad for a balanced meal.

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas good for weight loss?

In moderation, they can fit into a weight-loss plan, but they’re not a magic bullet! With 300 calories per empanada, they provide a satisfying meal option, especially when paired with lighter sides. Just remember to balance your overall intake throughout the day.

### Are the Cuban Beef Empanadas ultra-processed?

While they aren’t the most 'whole food' option out there, calling them ultra-processed might be a stretch. They contain some minimally processed ingredients like grass-fed beef and veggies, but the dough does have additives. It’s all about context — enjoy them as part of a varied diet!

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