So, baked beans aren’t necessarily the best way for kiddos (or adults!) to get nutrients, but they are just fine, in moderation. Total fats: 2 g This breakdown does speak somewhat in favor of those claiming that baked beans cannot be counted as vegetables, as they seem to be far more important as source of protein. Don’t get me wrong, I love baked beans, but they are far from a healthy choice equivalent to a vegetable. The beans are shelled and then dried. You may find beans to be a delicious addition to your meals but wonder which food group they belong to. They are known as legumes. Some are processed in factories and sold as canned baked beans. Baked beans are clearly a great source of proteins and this is one of the most important reasons for disputing their status as vegetables. The beans usually used in baked beans, for example the Heinz variety are Haricot beans, otherwise known as navy beans. Others are packaged as dried beans, which can then be cooked into baked beans by home cooks. Black beans and garbanzo beans are a typical household staple and navy beans, kidney beans, and canellini beans are … This article tells you whether beans are vegetables or should be considered something else. Plain, canned, and rinsed dried beans are always a great food for children, says Hartley. Of course, that’s not to say all beans should be monitored and limited. And unfortunately, I feel there are many out there who just don’t know (or who don’t want to know) the truth and will now be adding to the epidemic of obesity and diabetes by thinking baked beans are a good choice on a regular basis.