Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce

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Common questions

Is Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce healthy?

Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This enchilada sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomato paste and various peppers, which provide flavor and nutrients.

How processed is Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce?

Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomato Paste, Red Jalapeno Pepper Puree, Sea Salt count in its favor; Sugar, Canola Oil 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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Trader Joe's Enchilada Sauce

Trader Joe's
60 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

$13.20 · 10.1 oz · pack of 3 · $0.44 / fluid ounce
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Near you

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

At a glance

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

This enchilada sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomato paste and various peppers, which provide flavor and nutrients. However, the presence of canola oil, a highly processed seed oil, and added sugar detracts from its healthfulness. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score due to the inclusion of refined ingredients and additives.

Key ingredients 15

Tomato Paste
Good

Tomato paste is a concentrated source of tomatoes, providing vitamins and antioxidants. It is rich in lycopene, which may have heart health benefits. The concentration process enhances its nutrient density.

Benefits

Rich in lycopene and other antioxidants that support heart health and may reduce inflammation.

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Red Jalapeno Pepper Puree
Good

Red jalapeno pepper puree adds flavor and a source of capsaicin, which may have metabolic benefits. The puree form retains the natural nutrients of the peppers. It can enhance the flavor profile of the sauce.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals due to capsaicin content.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

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Sea Salt
Good

Sea salt is a natural source of sodium and trace minerals. It is less processed than table salt and retains some beneficial minerals. Its use enhances flavor without excessive processing.

Risks

Excessive consumption may contribute to high blood pressure.

Benefits

Provides essential sodium and trace minerals that are important for bodily functions.

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Ground Red Chili Pepper
Good

Ground red chili pepper adds spice and flavor, along with capsaicin, which may have health benefits. It is a natural ingredient that enhances the sensory profile of foods. Capsaicin may support metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals due to capsaicin content.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Chipotle Pepper Powder
Good

Chipotle pepper powder adds a smoky flavor and contains capsaicin, which may have health benefits. It is made from smoked and dried jalapenos, retaining their nutrients. Capsaicin may support metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals due to capsaicin content.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Coriander Powder
Good

Coriander powder is a spice that adds flavor and contains antioxidants. It is derived from coriander seeds and may support digestion. The powder form retains the beneficial compounds of the seeds.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.

Black Pepper
Good

Black pepper is a spice that enhances flavor and contains piperine, which may improve nutrient absorption. It is a natural ingredient with potential health benefits. Piperine may enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients.

Benefits

Contains piperine, which may improve nutrient absorption and provide antioxidant benefits.

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Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient used as a base in many food products. It serves as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. No significant health impacts are associated with its use.

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Distilled White Vinegar
Neutral

Distilled white vinegar is used for its acidic properties and as a preservative. It is a common ingredient in condiments for flavor enhancement. The distillation process ensures purity and consistency.

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Cornstarch
Neutral

Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent in sauces and soups. It is derived from corn and is highly processed. While it provides texture, it offers minimal nutritional value.

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Dried Onion
Neutral

Dried onion is used for flavor and aroma in culinary applications. It retains some of the nutrients found in fresh onions. The drying process concentrates its flavor but reduces its vitamin content.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some antioxidants, though less than fresh onions.

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Dried Garlic
Neutral

Dried garlic is used for its flavor and potential health benefits. It retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic. The drying process concentrates its flavor but may reduce some nutrients.

Benefits

Contains allicin, which may have antimicrobial and cardiovascular benefits.

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Onion Powder
Neutral

Onion powder is used for flavor enhancement in various dishes. It is made from dehydrated onions and retains some of their nutrients. The powder form provides convenience and a concentrated flavor.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some antioxidants, though less than fresh onions.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a refined carbohydrate that can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption is linked to various health issues.

Risks

High intake can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

See more about Sugar →
Canola Oil
Very Bad

Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed and refined. The extraction process may involve chemical solvents.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and imbalance in fatty acid intake.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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