Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce

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Common questions

Is Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce healthy?

Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce scores 63/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains a mix of beneficial ingredients like cooked beef, crushed tomatoes, and garlic, which provide essential nutrients and antioxidants.

How processed is Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce?

Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Trader Joe's Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cooked beef, Crushed tomatoes, Cooked pork count in its favor; Sugar, Yeast extract 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 Spaghetti With Meat And Sauce

Trader Joe's
63 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$11.97 · 10 oz · $1.20 / 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 10
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Pasta
Summary

This product contains a mix of beneficial ingredients like cooked beef, crushed tomatoes, and garlic, which provide essential nutrients and antioxidants. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of modified cornstarch and yeast extract, which contribute to its high processing level. Additionally, the inclusion of added sugar detracts from its overall healthiness, necessitating a moderate score.

Key ingredients 17

Cooked beef
Good

Cooked beef is a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. It provides a complete amino acid profile beneficial for muscle maintenance and growth. The quality of beef can vary based on the animal's diet and rearing conditions.

Risks

Excessive consumption of red meat may be linked to certain health issues like heart disease.

Benefits

Rich in protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle health and energy levels.

Crushed tomatoes
Good

Crushed tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. They are minimally processed and retain most of their nutritional value. Lycopene has been associated with reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.

Benefits

Provides vitamins and antioxidants that support immune function and may reduce inflammation.

Cooked pork
Good

Cooked pork is a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as thiamine and selenium. It provides a complete amino acid profile beneficial for muscle health. The nutritional quality can vary based on the cut and preparation method.

Risks

High consumption of processed pork products can be linked to health issues like heart disease.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients and high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.

Diced tomatoes in juice
Good

Diced tomatoes in juice are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene. They are minimally processed, retaining most of their nutritional benefits. Lycopene is known for its potential protective effects against certain diseases.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health and may reduce inflammation.

Onions
Good

Onions are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain compounds like quercetin that have anti-inflammatory properties. Onions are used in cooking for flavor and nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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Spices
Good

Spices add flavor and may provide health benefits due to their antioxidant properties. They are derived from plants and can vary widely in composition. Many spices have been linked to anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

See more about Spices →
Garlic
Good

Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including cardiovascular support and immune boosting properties. It contains sulfur compounds like allicin, which have been studied for their health effects. Garlic is used both for flavor and its potential health benefits.

Benefits

May support heart health and boost the immune system due to its sulfur compounds.

See more about Garlic →
Romano cheese
Good

Romano cheese is a source of protein and calcium, supporting bone health. It is made from sheep's milk and aged to develop its flavor. Cheese can be a good source of essential nutrients when consumed in moderation.

Risks

High in saturated fat and sodium, which can be a concern if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle function.

See more about Romano cheese →
Dehydrated onion
Good

Dehydrated onion retains most of the nutritional benefits of fresh onion, including vitamins and antioxidants. It is used for convenience and flavor in cooking. The dehydration process concentrates its flavor and extends shelf life.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and flavor, similar to fresh onions.

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Dehydrated garlic
Good

Dehydrated garlic retains the health benefits of fresh garlic, including cardiovascular support and immune boosting properties. It is convenient and has a long shelf life. The dehydration process preserves its beneficial compounds.

Benefits

May support heart health and boost the immune system, similar to fresh garlic.

Cooked pasta
Neutral

Cooked pasta is a staple carbohydrate source providing energy. It is typically made from refined wheat flour, which lacks fiber and some nutrients compared to whole grain options. The processing of pasta involves boiling, which does not significantly alter its nutritional profile.

Risks

Refined pasta can contribute to blood sugar spikes if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy and is versatile in many dishes.

See more about Cooked pasta →
Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and cooking medium in food preparation. It is essential for hydration and does not contribute calories or nutrients. In this context, it is used to cook pasta and form sauces.

Benefits

Essential for hydration and helps in the cooking process.

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Distilled white vinegar
Neutral

Distilled white vinegar is used as a flavor enhancer and preservative. It is made through the fermentation of ethanol and contains acetic acid. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits but can enhance the flavor profile of dishes.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative.

See more about Distilled white vinegar →
Modified cornstarch
Neutral

Modified cornstarch is used as a thickening agent in food products. It is derived from corn and processed to improve its stability and texture. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits but is useful in achieving desired food textures.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of food products.

See more about Modified cornstarch →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a source of sodium, which is essential for fluid balance and nerve function. Excessive intake can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

See more about Salt →
Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a refined carbohydrate that provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. Excessive consumption is linked to various health issues, including obesity and diabetes. It is often added to enhance sweetness but should be consumed in moderation.

Risks

High intake is associated with increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and dental cavities.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional benefits.

See more about Sugar →
Yeast extract
Bad

Concentrated glutamate source — MSG-adjacent flavor enhancer.

Risks

May contain naturally occurring glutamates, which some individuals are sensitive to.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and provides umami taste in foods.

See more about Yeast extract →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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