Are Amy's burritos unhealthy? A nutritional breakdown for a balanced diet

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

Despite a common reputation, not all frozen meals are created equal, and Amy's Kitchen is often highlighted for its use of organic ingredients. The key question, 'Are Amy's burritos unhealthy?', depends heavily on which specific product you choose and how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.

Quick Summary

Amy's burritos are convenient, made with organic ingredients, and high in fiber, but their sodium levels can be a concern. Their healthiness depends on balancing them within a complete diet.

Key Points

High Sodium Concern: Many Amy's burritos contain a high percentage of the daily recommended sodium intake, which is a major nutritional drawback.
Organic Ingredients: Amy's utilizes organic, non-GMO ingredients in its products, which is a positive aspect of its ingredient quality.
High in Fiber: Most burritos are a good source of dietary fiber, primarily from organic beans and grains, which aids in satiety and digestion.
Processed Food: Despite the use of high-quality ingredients, Amy's burritos are still processed foods and should not replace regular consumption of fresh, whole foods.
Balance Your Meal: It is recommended to supplement the burrito with fresh vegetables or healthy fats like avocado to create a more balanced and nutritious meal.

Deciphering the Nutritional Label

When evaluating Amy's burritos, looking beyond the appealing 'organic' label is crucial. A thorough check of the nutritional facts reveals a mixed bag of positive and negative health attributes. For example, a single Amy's Bean and Cheese Burrito contains around 350 calories, 11g of total fat, and a notable 580mg of sodium. On the positive side, it offers a solid 12g of protein and 7g of dietary fiber, contributing significantly to daily needs.

Calories and Macros: Amy's burritos generally fall within a reasonable calorie range for a single serving, making them a suitable component of a balanced meal. The macro split often features a good balance of carbohydrates, with respectable protein and fiber content, which can aid in satiety.
Fiber Content: The high fiber from ingredients like organic beans and whole wheat flour is a major strength, as fiber is important for digestive health and blood sugar management.
The Sodium Hurdle: Many varieties, like the Cheddar Cheese Burrito, can contain a high percentage of the daily recommended sodium intake. For instance, some varieties can exceed 25% of the daily value in one serving, a significant concern for those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet.

The Sodium Problem in Amy's Burritos

Sodium is the most significant nutritional drawback in many of Amy's burritos. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, with an ideal limit of no more than 1,500 mg for most adults. With many Amy's burritos containing over 500mg of sodium, a single item can represent a quarter or more of the daily limit. Consuming these regularly could contribute to an overall high-sodium diet.

While this is a common issue with many frozen and convenience foods, it’s a critical factor for health-conscious consumers to consider. Amy's does offer some lighter-sodium options, but careful label reading is essential.

Ingredient Quality: Organic vs. Processed

One of Amy's biggest selling points is its use of organic, non-GMO ingredients. Many burritos feature organic pinto beans, brown rice, whole wheat flour, and various organic vegetables. This means fewer pesticides and potentially higher quality ingredients than many conventional frozen meals.

However, it is important to remember that these are still processed foods. While they lack the artificial preservatives and additives found in many competitor products, they are not a substitute for a home-cooked meal made from fresh, whole foods. Environmental Working Group (EWG) reviews have noted that some rice-based products may contain trace amounts of arsenic, a naturally occurring contaminant.

How Different Amy's Burritos Stack Up

To illustrate the nutritional variations, let's compare a few popular Amy's burrito options based on search data, using approximated values for a single serving:


Feature	Cheddar Cheese Burrito	Bean & Rice Burrito (GF, Non-Dairy)	Especial Burrito
Calories	~350 kcal	~300 kcal	~320 kcal
Total Fat	11g	8g	7g
Sodium	580mg (25% DV)	560mg (24% DV)	640mg (28% DV)
Dietary Fiber	7g	5g	4g
Protein	12g	8g	10g
Key Feature	Higher fat, dairy	Gluten-free, non-dairy	Highest sodium

Making an Amy's Burrito a Healthy Meal

Despite the high sodium, you can still integrate Amy's burritos into a healthy, balanced diet with a few modifications.

Pair with Fresh Veggies: Serve your burrito with a large side salad, roasted broccoli, or other non-starchy vegetables. This adds volume and nutrients without adding significant sodium.
Add Healthy Fats: Top your burrito with a few slices of avocado for heart-healthy fats and creaminess, which can boost satiety.
Use Fresh Salsa: Instead of relying on a high-sodium sauce, use a fresh tomato and onion salsa to add flavor.
Control Portions: Use the burrito as a centerpiece and supplement with healthier side dishes rather than seeing it as a complete, standalone meal.
Choose Wisely: Opt for varieties that have a more favorable nutritional profile, such as lower sodium versions, or those with more fiber.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key

So, are Amy's burritos unhealthy? The answer isn't a simple yes or no. While they provide convenience with wholesome, organic ingredients and good fiber content, the elevated sodium in many varieties requires careful consideration. For individuals with specific dietary needs, such as managing blood pressure, they may pose a challenge. For those seeking a quick meal, they can fit into a healthy lifestyle if consumed in moderation and supplemented with fresh, whole foods to balance the high sodium. As with any convenience food, the key is to read the label, be mindful of your overall dietary intake, and make choices that align with your health goals. For further information on their product line, you can visit the official Amy's Kitchen website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Amy's burritos are equally healthy. Their nutritional profiles, particularly sodium and fat content, vary significantly between different types like the Bean and Cheese vs. the Gluten-Free Bean & Rice. Always check the specific product label for accurate information.

Yes, they can be included in a weight loss diet, but moderation is key. They should be paired with low-calorie, high-nutrient foods like a side salad to enhance satiety. Focus on balancing your overall meal rather than relying on the burrito alone.

Being organic is a positive attribute, as it means fewer pesticides and higher quality ingredients. However, being organic does not automatically make them a 'healthy' choice due to other factors like high sodium content. It is important to consider the entire nutritional panel.

Amy's products are generally free of artificial preservatives, flavors, and additives. They focus on using recognizable, organic ingredients, though the Environmental Working Group has noted minor concerns with some additives.

Some Amy's burritos are gluten-free, such as the Gluten-Free Non-Dairy Bean & Rice variety. However, many others contain wheat flour. It is essential for those with gluten sensitivities to check the ingredient list carefully for the specific product.

To reduce sodium intake, you can pair the burrito with fresh, low-sodium side dishes like a salad or fresh fruit. You should also choose Amy's burritos that are specifically marked as 'light in sodium' or have a lower sodium count on the label.

Not all Amy's burritos are vegan, though many are vegetarian. Varieties containing cheese, such as the Cheddar Cheese Burrito, are not vegan. However, Amy's offers several popular vegan and non-dairy options, including the Bean & Rice Burrito.