Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce

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Common questions

Is Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce healthy?

Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This pasta sauce contains beneficial ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil paste, which provide vitamins and antioxidants.

How processed is Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce?

Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Crushed tomatoes, White vinegar, Basil paste count in its favor; Canola oil, Cane sugar are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce

Trader Joe's
60 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 7
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Pasta
Summary

This pasta sauce contains beneficial ingredients like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil paste, which provide vitamins and antioxidants. However, the presence of canola oil, a highly processed seed oil, and cane sugar, a refined sugar, detracts from its health profile. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of some nutritious components.

Key ingredients 12

Crushed tomatoes
Good

Crushed tomatoes are a minimally processed source of vitamins and antioxidants. They provide lycopene, which is linked to reduced risk of heart disease. The natural sugars and fiber in tomatoes contribute to a balanced nutritional profile.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and lycopene, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

White vinegar
Good

White vinegar is a fermented product that can aid in digestion and has antimicrobial properties. It is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in foods. Its acidity can help balance flavors and preserve food quality.

Benefits

May aid digestion and has antimicrobial properties that can help preserve food.

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Basil paste
Good

Basil paste provides concentrated flavor and nutrients from fresh basil leaves. It contains antioxidants and essential oils that may support health. The paste form allows for easy incorporation into recipes without losing nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and essential oils that may support immune function and reduce inflammation.

Cider vinegar
Good

Cider vinegar is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing antimicrobial effects. It is made from fermented apple juice, retaining some beneficial compounds. Its acidity can enhance flavor and preserve food.

Benefits

May aid digestion and has antimicrobial properties, contributing to overall health.

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Dried oregano
Good

Dried oregano is a herb rich in antioxidants and essential oils that may support health. It is used for flavoring and has potential antimicrobial properties. The drying process concentrates its beneficial compounds, making it a valuable culinary ingredient.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and essential oils that may support immune function and reduce inflammation.

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Onion
Good

Onions are a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Onions add flavor and nutritional value to dishes without significant processing.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health and immune function.

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Garlic
Good

Garlic is known for its health-promoting properties, including antimicrobial and cardiovascular benefits. It contains allicin, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Garlic is a flavorful addition to foods with minimal processing.

Benefits

May support heart health and has antimicrobial properties that contribute to overall wellness.

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Glabra oil
Neutral

Glabra oil is not commonly recognized in mainstream nutrition, and its health impacts are not well-documented. It may be used for flavoring or as a minor ingredient. Without specific data, it is considered neutral in health impact.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is a common seasoning that enhances flavor but can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess. It is a refined product without the trace minerals found in unrefined salts. Moderation is key to avoiding negative health impacts.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, but benefits are limited to moderate consumption.

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Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer commonly used in food products. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain product freshness. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and used in small amounts.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and enhance flavor without significant nutritional benefits.

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Cane sugar
Bad

Cane sugar is a refined sugar that can contribute to increased blood sugar levels and weight gain. It lacks nutritional value beyond calories and can lead to metabolic issues if consumed in excess. Its presence in processed foods is often linked to poor dietary outcomes.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

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Canola oil
Very Bad

Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation. It is often highly processed and refined, which may reduce its nutritional quality. The extraction process typically involves heat and chemicals, impacting its health profile.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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