How many calories are in a can of Bush's baked beans?

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

A half-cup serving of Bush's Original Baked Beans contains 150 calories, but the total calories in a full can vary depending on the size and flavor. This calorie content, combined with fiber and protein, makes it a surprisingly filling and convenient side dish or meal component.

Quick Summary

Calorie content in Bush's canned beans varies by flavor and can size, with the standard half-cup serving of Original Baked Beans containing 150 calories. Total can calories depend on the number of servings. Other varieties like Black Beans or Homestyle Baked Beans have different calorie profiles per serving.

Key Points

Variety matters: The calorie count depends on the specific type of Bush's beans (e.g., Original vs. Black Beans).
Serving size is key: The nutrition label lists per-serving calories, not the full can total.
Original Baked Beans: A 1/2-cup serving of Original Baked Beans contains 150 calories, with a 16 oz can holding about 525 calories.
Healthier options exist: Plain beans (like Black or Kidney) or 'Zero Sugar Added' baked beans have fewer calories and less sodium/sugar.
Nutrient-dense: Most Bush's beans provide excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber, regardless of flavor.
Check ingredients: Always read the label to assess added sugars, sodium, and ingredients like bacon.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Bush's Beans

When assessing the calories in a can of Bush's beans, it's important to understand that the total count depends on two key factors: the variety of the beans and the size of the can. Many people mistakenly assume all cans are nutritionally identical, but different recipes and ingredients lead to varying caloric and nutritional values.

The most popular product, Bush's Original Baked Beans, provides approximately 150 calories per standard 1/2-cup serving. However, a full 16-ounce can contains around 3.5 servings, making the total calorie count for the entire can closer to 525 calories. The larger 55-ounce cans contain significantly more servings, and thus a much higher total caloric value. For those watching their intake, paying attention to the serving size is crucial.

Nutritional Comparison of Popular Bush's Varieties

Not all Bush's products are created equal. The preparation and ingredients, such as added sugars, bacon, or different spices, directly impact the final nutritional profile. For instance, the vegetarian varieties often contain less fat, while flavors with brown sugar or hickory may have higher sugar content.

Comparison Table: Bush's Bean Varieties (per 1/2-cup serving)


Variety	Calories	Total Fat	Added Sugar	Protein	Dietary Fiber
Original Baked Beans	150 kcal	1g	11g	7g	5g
Homestyle Baked Beans	140 kcal	1g	11g	6g	5g
Vegetarian Baked Beans	130 kcal	0g	12g	6g	5g
Zero Sugar Added Baked Beans	120 kcal	0g	0g	7g	5g
Black Beans	110 kcal	0g	N/A	7g	5g

Beyond Baked Beans: Other Bush's Products

Bush's offers a wide range of canned bean products beyond the classic baked beans, each with its own nutritional information. Simple canned beans like black beans or kidney beans, which are typically packed in water with salt, are often lower in sugar and calories than their baked bean counterparts.

For example, a half-cup serving of Bush's Black Beans has only 110 calories and zero fat, offering a healthier profile for those monitoring their diet. Similarly, reduced-sodium varieties are available for customers concerned about salt intake. These options provide a more versatile ingredient for cooking than the pre-seasoned baked beans.

The Health Impact of Canned Beans

While the nutritional profile of Bush's beans varies, they generally offer a good source of fiber and plant-based protein. A half-cup serving can contain a significant portion of your daily fiber needs, which aids in digestion and can help manage blood sugar levels. However, the sodium and sugar content in many baked bean recipes can be quite high, requiring moderation, especially for individuals with health concerns like high blood pressure or diabetes.

When incorporating canned beans into a healthy diet, it is beneficial to consider low-sodium or no-sugar-added options, or to rinse and drain simpler beans to reduce their sodium content. Combining beans with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, or whole grains can create a balanced and nutritious meal. Some health experts also advise checking can linings for BPA, though many manufacturers have switched to BPA-free alternatives.

Conclusion

The number of calories in a can of Bush's beans is not a fixed number, but rather depends on the specific variety and can size. While varieties like Original Baked Beans offer a satisfyingly sweet and savory option, they come with higher sugar and sodium counts per serving. For a more health-conscious choice, plain canned beans or the 'zero sugar added' versions offer the same high fiber and protein benefits with fewer added ingredients. By understanding the nutrition label and making informed choices, you can easily fit Bush's beans into a balanced diet, whether for a quick side dish or a hearty meal ingredient.

For more nutritional information on a variety of foods, the USDA's FoodData Central is a valuable resource for in-depth data on thousands of food products across different brands. The website details the macronutrient content and overall nutritional value of food items, allowing for comprehensive dietary planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 16 oz can of Bush's Original Baked Beans contains approximately 525 calories, based on 3.5 half-cup servings at 150 calories each.

No, the calorie content varies significantly by flavor and type. Plain beans like black beans are lower in calories and sugar than baked bean varieties.

Among baked beans, the Zero Sugar Added variety has one of the lowest calorie counts at 120 kcal per 1/2-cup serving. Other un-sauced beans like Black Beans or Kidney Beans are also low-calorie options.

While some water-soluble vitamins may be diminished by the canning heat, most nutrients like protein, fiber, and fat-soluble vitamins remain intact. Canned beans are still a nutrient-dense food.

Rinsing and draining canned beans can help reduce the sodium content, which is often high in canned products. This is especially useful for those managing blood pressure.

Some varieties, particularly the baked beans, can be high in added sugar. For instance, the Original Baked Beans contain 11g of added sugar per serving. Healthier alternatives include the Zero Sugar Added or plain bean products.

Yes, canned beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein. A half-cup serving can provide 6 to 7 grams of protein, making them a great addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet.