Tomato & Beef Pasta Sauce

Trader Joe's
85 Excellent
$14.99 · 25 oz
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Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

Summary

This pasta sauce features a clean ingredient list with minimally processed components like peeled tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and cooked ground beef, which contribute to its nutritional value. The use of high-quality ingredients and the absence of harmful additives or seed oils enhance its health profile. Despite being a processed food, the sauce maintains a high score due to its emphasis on whole, recognizable ingredients and minimal additives.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 14
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Aldi Nord
Category Pasta

Key ingredients 16

Peeled tomatoes in puree
Very Good

Peeled tomatoes in puree are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene. They are minimally processed, retaining most of their nutritional value. The inclusion of basil and salt enhances flavor without significant processing.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and lycopene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Cooked ground beef
Good

Cooked ground beef provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. The quality depends on the source, with grass-fed options offering more omega-3 fatty acids. Proper cooking ensures safety and digestibility.

Risks

Excessive consumption of red meat may be linked to health issues such as heart disease.

Benefits

Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle growth and maintenance.

Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the consistency of the sauce. It is a neutral ingredient with no nutritional value. It helps in blending the flavors of other ingredients.

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Tomato paste
Good

Tomato paste is concentrated and rich in flavor, providing a dense source of nutrients like lycopene. It is made by cooking tomatoes for a long time, reducing water content and enhancing nutrient density. It adds depth to the sauce with minimal processing.

Benefits

High in lycopene, which may have antioxidant properties and support heart health.

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Onion
Good

Onions are a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They add flavor and nutritional value to the sauce. Onions contain quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and may support immune function.

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Extra virgin olive oil
Very Good

Extra virgin olive oil is a high-quality monounsaturated fat with anti-inflammatory properties. It contains antioxidants that support heart health. Cold-pressed extraction preserves beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory properties. Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols that may reduce oxidative stress.

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Carrot puree
Good

Carrot puree adds natural sweetness and nutrients like beta-carotene to the sauce. It is minimally processed, retaining most of its nutritional benefits. Carrots are known for their vitamin A content, which supports vision health.

Benefits

Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health.

Garlic puree
Good

Garlic puree provides flavor and potential health benefits due to its sulfur compounds. It is minimally processed, maintaining its beneficial properties. Garlic is known for its potential cardiovascular benefits.

Benefits

May support heart health and has antimicrobial properties.

Sea salt
Good

Sea salt is a minimally processed source of sodium and trace minerals. It enhances flavor without the additives found in refined table salt. Sea salt can provide essential electrolytes.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Provides essential minerals and enhances flavor naturally.

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Basil
Good

Basil is an herb that adds flavor and potential health benefits due to its antioxidants. It is used fresh or dried, retaining its beneficial compounds. Basil may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may support immune health.

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Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is used as an acidulant to enhance flavor and preserve the sauce. It is a common food additive derived from citrus fruits. It helps maintain the product's pH balance and shelf life.

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Black pepper
Good

Black pepper is a spice that adds flavor and potential health benefits due to its active compound, piperine. It is minimally processed and enhances nutrient absorption. Piperine may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Benefits

May enhance nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties.

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Ground fennel seed
Good

Ground fennel seed adds flavor and potential digestive benefits to the sauce. It is a natural spice with minimal processing. Fennel seeds are known for their potential to aid digestion and reduce bloating.

Benefits

May aid digestion and reduce bloating.

Dried oregano
Good

Dried oregano is an herb that adds flavor and potential health benefits due to its antioxidants. It is used in its dried form, retaining its beneficial compounds. Oregano may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may support immune health.

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Ground thyme
Good

Ground thyme is an herb that adds flavor and potential health benefits due to its antioxidants. It is minimally processed and retains its beneficial compounds. Thyme may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may support immune health.

Ground rosemary
Good

Ground rosemary is an herb that adds flavor and potential health benefits due to its antioxidants. It is minimally processed and retains its beneficial compounds. Rosemary may have anti-inflammatory and cognitive benefits.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may support cognitive health.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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