Thick & chunky salsa mild

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Common questions

Is Thick & chunky salsa mild healthy?

Thick & chunky salsa mild scores 78/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This salsa contains a variety of beneficial ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and green peppers, which are minimally processed and rich in nutrients.

How processed is Thick & chunky salsa mild?

Thick & chunky salsa mild is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Thick & chunky salsa mild's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomato, Onions, Green peppers count in its favor; Sugar is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Thick & chunky salsa mild

Old El Paso
78 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by General Mills
Category Condiments
Summary

This salsa contains a variety of beneficial ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and green peppers, which are minimally processed and rich in nutrients. However, it includes added sugar, which is a refined ingredient that can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess. The product is moderately processed, which limits its potential health score despite the overall clean ingredient list.

Key ingredients 14

Tomato
Very Good

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to numerous health benefits. They are a whole food ingredient with minimal processing, retaining most of their nutritional value. Their high water content also contributes to hydration.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Provides essential vitamins such as vitamin C and potassium.

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Onions
Good

Onions are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. They are used in their natural form, preserving their health benefits. Onions also add flavor without the need for artificial additives.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to their high FODMAP content.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation. Provides dietary fiber that aids in digestion.

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Green peppers
Good

Green peppers are low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health. They are minimally processed, retaining their nutritional integrity. Their crisp texture and flavor enhance the overall sensory experience of the salsa.

Benefits

Provides essential vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health. Contributes to dietary fiber intake, promoting digestive health.

Tomato paste
Good

Tomato paste is concentrated, providing a rich source of lycopene and other antioxidants. It is made by cooking tomatoes, which enhances the bioavailability of lycopene. This ingredient adds depth of flavor and nutritional value to the salsa.

Benefits

Rich in lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Enhances the flavor profile of dishes.

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Vinegar
Good

Vinegar is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer, often used in condiments. It is made through fermentation, which can provide probiotic benefits. Vinegar adds acidity that balances the flavors in the salsa.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and provide probiotic benefits due to its fermentation process. Enhances flavor and acts as a natural preservative.

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Guajilo pepper
Good

Guajilo pepper adds a mild heat and rich flavor, enhancing the salsa's complexity. It is a natural ingredient with minimal processing, retaining its nutritional benefits. Peppers are known for their antioxidant properties and potential metabolism-boosting effects.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and may boost metabolism. Enhances flavor and adds a mild heat to dishes.

Garlic powder
Good

Garlic powder is a concentrated form of garlic that provides flavor and potential health benefits. It retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic, such as allicin. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial and heart health benefits.

Benefits

May support heart health and provide antimicrobial benefits. Enhances flavor and provides some of the benefits of fresh garlic.

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Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Benefits

May provide antioxidants and enhance flavor.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative, enhancing flavor and shelf life. It is a common ingredient in processed foods, but excessive consumption can lead to health issues. In this product, it is used in moderation.

Risks

Excessive intake of salt can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative, extending the product's shelf life.

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Onion flakes
Neutral

Onion flakes are dehydrated onions that provide flavor without the need for fresh produce. They retain some nutritional benefits but are primarily used for convenience and flavor. Their processing involves dehydration, which preserves them for longer periods.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to their high FODMAP content.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some nutritional benefits similar to fresh onions, such as antioxidants.

Onion powder
Neutral

Onion powder is a concentrated form of onion that provides flavor without the bulk of fresh onions. It is used for convenience and flavor enhancement. The dehydration process retains some of the onion's nutritional properties.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to their high FODMAP content.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some nutritional benefits similar to fresh onions, such as antioxidants.

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Lemon juice concentrate
Neutral

Lemon juice concentrate adds acidity and flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. It is a processed form of lemon juice, which may lose some nutrients during concentration. However, it still provides some vitamin C and antioxidants.

Benefits

Adds flavor and provides some vitamin C and antioxidants.

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Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is used as an acidity regulator and preservative in many food products. It is a naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits but is often produced industrially for food use. It helps maintain the product's pH and extends shelf life.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and acidity regulator, enhancing the product's stability and shelf life.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is added to enhance sweetness but provides no nutritional benefits and can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess. It is a refined ingredient that can lead to increased calorie intake. Its presence in processed foods is often criticized for contributing to obesity and metabolic disorders.

Risks

Excessive sugar intake is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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