HUNTS Tomato Sauce For Original Mild Chili Starter, 15 OZ
Summary
This tomato sauce is heavily processed, containing added sugar and natural flavors, which detract from its nutritional value. While it includes beneficial ingredients like tomatoes and chili pepper, the presence of refined sugar and the use of a catch-all term for flavoring agents are concerning. The product's high processing level limits its overall healthiness despite some positive aspects.
At a glance
Key ingredients 16
TomatoesVery Good
Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C and contain antioxidants like lycopene. They are minimally processed in this product, retaining most of their nutritional value. The presence of lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Tomato PureeGood
Tomato puree is made from cooked tomatoes and retains many of the nutrients found in fresh tomatoes. It is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. The cooking process enhances the bioavailability of lycopene, a beneficial antioxidant.
Benefits
Provides vitamins and antioxidants, with enhanced lycopene bioavailability due to cooking.
Calcium ChlorideNeutral
Calcium chloride is used as a firming agent in canned tomatoes. It helps maintain the texture of the tomatoes during processing. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food products.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to hypercalcemia, but this is unlikely in typical food use.
Benefits
Helps maintain the texture of canned tomatoes, ensuring a better culinary experience.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer found in citrus fruits. It is used to maintain acidity and preserve the color of the product. It is widely used in the food industry and considered safe.
Risks
May cause tooth enamel erosion if consumed in large quantities over time.
Benefits
Acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer, maintaining product quality.
Chili PepperGood
Chili pepper adds flavor and a mild heat to the product. It contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties. The use of natural spices enhances the flavor profile without artificial additives.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide a natural source of flavor.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the product. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. While necessary for flavor, excessive consumption can lead to health issues.
Risks
High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.
SugarBad
Sugar is added to balance acidity and enhance flavor. However, refined sugar contributes to empty calories and can lead to health issues if consumed in excess. It is not necessary for nutritional value and is often overused in processed foods.
Risks
Excessive sugar intake is linked to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
Benefits
Provides sweetness and balances acidity, but offers no significant nutritional benefits.
Onion PowderNeutral
Onion powder is used for flavoring and is made from dehydrated onions. It retains some of the nutritional benefits of fresh onions, such as antioxidants. It is a convenient way to add onion flavor without the need for fresh produce.
Benefits
Adds flavor and some antioxidants, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Green Bell Pepper PowderNeutral
Green bell pepper powder is used for flavor and color. It is made from dehydrated green bell peppers and retains some vitamins and antioxidants. It provides a mild pepper flavor without the need for fresh peppers.
Benefits
Adds flavor and color, with some retained vitamins and antioxidants.
Dried GarlicNeutral
Dried garlic is used for flavoring and is made from dehydrated garlic cloves. It retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic, such as allicin. It is a convenient way to add garlic flavor without fresh garlic.
Benefits
Adds flavor and retains some beneficial compounds like allicin.
Dried OnionNeutral
Dried onion is used for flavoring and is made from dehydrated onions. It retains some of the nutritional benefits of fresh onions, such as antioxidants. It is a convenient way to add onion flavor without fresh produce.
Benefits
Adds flavor and some antioxidants, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Ground CuminNeutral
Ground cumin is used for its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is a spice that contains antioxidants and may have digestive benefits. It enhances the flavor profile of the product without artificial additives.
Benefits
Adds flavor and contains antioxidants, potentially aiding digestion.
Carrot FiberNeutral
Carrot fiber is used as a natural thickening agent and source of dietary fiber. It is derived from carrots and retains some of their nutritional benefits. It helps improve the texture of the product without synthetic additives.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber and improves texture naturally.
SpiceNeutral
The term 'spice' refers to a blend of various spices used for flavoring. It enhances the taste profile of the product. The specific spices used are not disclosed, which limits detailed analysis.
Risks
Potential allergen risk if specific spices are not disclosed.
Benefits
Enhances flavor with a blend of spices, adding complexity to the taste.
Natural FlavorBad
Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. It lacks transparency regarding the specific ingredients used. This can be concerning for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
Risks
Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients and lack of transparency.
Benefits
Adds flavor to the product, but offers no significant nutritional benefits.
Garlic PowderNeutral
Garlic powder is used for flavoring and is made from dehydrated garlic cloves. It retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic, such as allicin. It is a convenient way to add garlic flavor without fresh garlic.
Benefits
Adds flavor and retains some beneficial compounds like allicin.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
Get the full breakdown in the Scout app
Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.
Download on theApp Store