Understanding the 'Real Good' Difference
When examining why real good chicken has so much protein, it's essential to look at how the company's products are formulated. Unlike many competitor products that use traditional breading with processed flours, Real Good Foods utilizes a specialized coating made from a mix of whey protein, chickpea flour, and seasonings. This method swaps high-carb ingredients for protein-rich ones, effectively increasing the overall protein concentration and reducing net carbs per serving.
The Role of High-Quality Ingredients
The base ingredient for most Real Good Chicken products is real, white meat chicken breast. Chicken breast is a naturally lean cut of meat, prized for having one of the highest protein-to-fat ratios. While other cuts of chicken also contain protein, the breast meat is the most protein-dense part of the bird, especially when the skin is removed.
Beyond the Meat: The Protein-Optimized Breading
Traditional chicken nuggets or strips often have a thick, heavy breading that can add a significant amount of carbohydrates and calories. By replacing this with a grain-free, protein-based breading, Real Good Foods ensures that even the coating contributes to the protein count rather than diluting it with carbs. This makes their products particularly suitable for ketogenic and other low-carb diets, where high protein intake is often a primary goal.
The Impact of Processing Methods
In addition to ingredient choice, the way Real Good Foods processes its products plays a role. By focusing on simple, real-food ingredients and avoiding artificial fillers and modified starches, the company maintains a more nutritionally dense product. This means that a higher percentage of the product's total weight is made up of protein, as opposed to less nutrient-dense components.
Comparison: Real Good Chicken vs. Traditional Breaded Chicken
To truly grasp the nutritional advantage, let's compare a standard serving of Real Good Chicken with a typical breaded chicken product. This table highlights the nutritional priorities of each product.
| Feature | Real Good Chicken Nuggets | Traditional Breaded Chicken Nuggets |
|---|---|---|
| Protein per Serving | 23+ grams | Typically 10-15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 3-4 grams net carbs | Often 15-25+ grams |
| Breading Ingredients | Whey protein, chickpea flour | Wheat flour, modified starches |
| Dietary Focus | High protein, low carb | Standard meal, higher carbs |
| Gluten Status | Gluten-free | Typically contains gluten |
| Processing | Minimally processed, real ingredients | Often more processed |
The Nutritional Science Behind Chicken Protein
Real good chicken has so much protein fundamentally because muscle tissue is comprised primarily of protein. In poultry, lean white meat, such as the breast, is the most muscular part and therefore contains the highest concentration of protein per gram. This is not exclusive to Real Good products but is a biological reality for all chicken. The 'Real Good' factor comes from preserving and enhancing this natural protein content through ingredient choice and preparation, rather than masking it with carb-heavy additions.
For those on a weight loss journey, a high-protein, low-carb food source like Real Good Chicken can be a valuable tool. Protein promotes satiety, helping you feel full for longer and reducing overall calorie intake. Combining this with a low carbohydrate count means you can fuel your body with essential amino acids without spiking blood sugar, which is crucial for managing weight and energy levels. The strategic use of protein-based breading amplifies these effects, creating a macro-friendly product designed for maximum nutritional benefit.
Conclusion: The Synergy of Quality and Innovation
In conclusion, the high protein content in Real Good Chicken products is not a fluke but the result of intentional nutritional design. By starting with naturally protein-dense chicken breast and using an innovative, protein-based breading, the company creates a product that maximizes protein and minimizes carbohydrates. This approach differentiates it from traditional breaded chicken options and is the reason it stands out as a high-protein choice for health-conscious consumers. Its appeal lies in this synergy of high-quality, real-food ingredients and a processing method that prioritizes macro-friendly nutrition.
