Picante Sauce

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Common questions

Is Picante Sauce healthy?

Picante Sauce scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This picante sauce contains beneficial ingredients like jalapeno peppers, onions, and dried garlic, which contribute to its flavor and nutritional profile.

How processed is Picante Sauce?

Picante Sauce is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Picante Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Jalapeno Peppers, Onions, Dried Garlic count in its favor; Sugar, Natural Flavor 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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Picante Sauce

Kroger
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Kroger
Category Condiments
Summary

This picante sauce contains beneficial ingredients like jalapeno peppers, onions, and dried garlic, which contribute to its flavor and nutritional profile. However, it is penalized for containing refined sugar and natural flavors, which are processed ingredients that offer little nutritional benefit. The product is also classified as ultra-processed, which limits its potential score despite the presence of some whole food ingredients.

Key ingredients 9

Jalapeno Peppers
Good

Jalapeno peppers add spice and flavor, along with beneficial nutrients like vitamin C and capsaicin. Capsaicin is known for its potential metabolism-boosting properties. They are a natural, unprocessed ingredient contributing to the sauce's flavor profile.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may aid in metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

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Onions
Good

Onions are a flavorful addition that provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are known for their potential heart health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. Onions are a whole food ingredient with minimal processing.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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Dried Garlic
Good

Dried garlic is a concentrated source of flavor and beneficial compounds like allicin. It retains many of the health benefits of fresh garlic, including potential heart health and immune support. It is a minimally processed ingredient.

Benefits

Contains allicin, which may support heart health and boost the immune system.

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Crushed Tomatoes
Neutral

Crushed tomatoes are a common base for sauces, providing a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. They are minimally processed, retaining most of their natural nutrients. However, they can be high in sodium if not carefully monitored.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health.

Vinegar
Neutral

Vinegar is used for its acidic properties, enhancing flavor and acting as a preservative. It is a natural product with minimal processing. While it has some health benefits, such as aiding digestion, it is not a significant source of nutrients.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and has preservative qualities.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the product. It is a common ingredient in many foods but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health risks. It is not a significant source of nutrients beyond sodium.

Risks

High sodium intake can lead to increased blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

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Dried Onion
Neutral

Dried onion provides flavor and some nutrients similar to fresh onions but in a more concentrated form. It is a minimally processed ingredient that retains some beneficial compounds. However, it lacks the water content and freshness of raw onions.

Benefits

Offers similar antioxidant benefits to fresh onions, albeit in a dried form.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is added for sweetness but offers no nutritional benefits and can contribute to health issues. It is a processed ingredient that can lead to increased calorie intake. Excessive consumption is linked to various health concerns.

Risks

High sugar intake is associated with obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

See more about Sugar →
Natural Flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but lack transparency regarding their specific composition. They are processed and can contain a variety of chemical compounds. This lack of clarity can be concerning for consumers seeking clean labels.

Risks

Potential allergens or sensitivities due to undisclosed components.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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