How much cholesterol is in Heinz baked beans?

December 21, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the official Heinz nutritional information and various nutritional databases, Heinz baked beans contain 0mg of cholesterol per serving. This is because cholesterol is found exclusively in animal products, and Heinz baked beans are a naturally plant-based food.

Quick Summary

Heinz baked beans have no cholesterol, as they are a plant-based product. The primary ingredients are haricot beans in a tomato sauce, which are naturally free of dietary cholesterol. While low in cholesterol, it's important to consider other nutritional aspects like sodium and sugar content.

Key Points

0mg Cholesterol: Heinz baked beans are entirely plant-based, meaning they contain zero dietary cholesterol.
Plant-Based Ingredients: Their main ingredients, haricot beans and a tomato sauce, are naturally free of cholesterol.
Source of Fiber and Protein: Baked beans offer significant amounts of dietary fiber and plant-based protein.
Mind Sugar and Sodium: While cholesterol-free, different varieties can contain varying amounts of sugar and sodium, which should be monitored.
Part of a Heart-Healthy Diet: The high fiber content in beans can aid in lowering blood cholesterol, especially when used to replace high-fat foods.
Customizable Options: Homemade baked beans allow for full control over ingredients like salt and sugar.

Understanding Cholesterol and Plant-Based Foods

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the cells of your body. It's essential for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid in digestion. The body produces all the cholesterol it needs, and you can also get it from animal-based foods like meat, poultry, and dairy. Plant-based foods, by their very nature, do not contain any dietary cholesterol. This is the fundamental reason why Heinz baked beans, which are made from haricot beans and a tomato sauce, are entirely free of cholesterol.

The Composition of Heinz Baked Beans

The ingredient list for Heinz baked beans confirms their plant-based status. The core components are beans, tomatoes, water, sugar, vinegar, and some seasonings. There are no animal-derived ingredients, which solidifies their 0mg cholesterol content. This makes them a suitable dietary choice for individuals looking to reduce their cholesterol intake, particularly those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Beyond Cholesterol: The Broader Nutritional Picture

While the absence of cholesterol is a key selling point for those with specific health concerns, it is crucial to look at the overall nutritional profile of Heinz baked beans. They are a good source of fiber and protein, which can contribute to muscle mass and a feeling of fullness. However, their sodium and sugar levels are also important to consider, as these can vary between different product versions and serving sizes. For instance, some varieties might have higher sugar content, while low-sugar options are also available.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for a standard serving of Heinz baked beans, based on a 100g serving:

Energy: 375kJ (89kcal)
Protein: 4.8g
Total Fat: 0.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.1g
Carbohydrates: 13.6g
Sugars: 4.5g
Dietary Fibre: 5.2g
Sodium: 365mg

Comparing Heinz with Other Brands and Homemade Options

For consumers conscious about their health, comparing products is a valuable exercise. While most baked beans are inherently cholesterol-free, their nutritional details can differ. Sodium and sugar content are often the most significant variables. Homemade versions offer the most control over these factors.


Feature	Heinz Baked Beans	Bush's Best Original Baked Beans	Homemade Baked Beans
Cholesterol	0mg	0mg	0mg
Sodium per 1/2 cup	Varies (e.g., 260mg US version)	~550mg	Fully customizable
Sugar per 1/2 cup	Varies (e.g., 7g US version)	~11g Added Sugar	Fully customizable
Saturated Fat	Very low	Very low	Fully customizable
Processing Level	Moderate	Moderate	Low

The Importance of a Balanced Diet

While baked beans can be part of a healthy diet, it is important to remember that overall dietary patterns have the greatest impact on cholesterol levels. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other legumes is key to maintaining healthy cholesterol. The fiber content in beans, for instance, can help lower blood cholesterol by inhibiting absorption. Therefore, pairing Heinz baked beans with whole-wheat toast rather than fatty breakfast meats is a more heart-healthy choice.

Final Takeaway

In conclusion, Heinz baked beans do not contain any dietary cholesterol. This is a simple, factual answer derived from their plant-based ingredients. However, a holistic approach to nutrition is always recommended. Reading the nutritional labels for different varieties is crucial, as is balancing your meal with other healthy food groups. For those with high cholesterol or other health concerns, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action. Baked beans offer a source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy component of many meals, as long as the broader context of a balanced diet is maintained.

For more information on dietary cholesterol and heart health, the National Institutes of Health provides excellent resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, baked beans are naturally cholesterol-free. This is because they are made from haricot beans, which are a plant-based food, and cholesterol is only found in animal products.

Yes, all standard baked beans made from plant-based ingredients will be cholesterol-free. However, it is essential to check the ingredients of flavored or specialized versions, which might include animal-based additives. Always check the nutrition label to be certain.

The high fiber content in beans can help lower your blood cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol and removing it from the body. Studies have shown that regular bean consumption can contribute to lower total cholesterol.

Some highly processed vegan foods, such as certain cheeses and desserts, may contain large amounts of saturated fats from ingredients like coconut or palm oil. These saturated fats can stimulate the liver to produce more cholesterol, thereby raising blood cholesterol levels.

The main difference is control over ingredients. Homemade versions allow you to manage the amount of sodium and sugar, while commercially prepared beans like Heinz have standardized recipes. Homemade can often be lower in these areas.

Any Heinz baked beans variety will be cholesterol-free. For overall heart health, opt for versions labeled "reduced sugar" or "low sodium" to minimize intake of added sugars and salt.

Any food derived exclusively from plants will not contain dietary cholesterol. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes like lentils and chickpeas.