Old Elpaso Salsa Hot 226g Thick & Chunky

Old El Paso
65 Fair
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Summary

This salsa contains a high percentage of whole food ingredients like chopped tomatoes, onions, and green peppers, which are minimally processed and provide nutritional benefits. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of additives like citric acid and calcium chloride, as well as refined sugar and vague natural flavoring. These factors, along with its processing level, limit its overall healthiness despite the presence of beneficial ingredients.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by General Mills
Category Condiments

Key ingredients 15

Chopped tomatoes
Good

Chopped tomatoes are a primary ingredient providing a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. They are minimally processed, retaining most of their natural nutrients. The high lycopene content supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and lycopene, which are beneficial for heart health and may have cancer-preventive properties.

Onions
Good

Onions add flavor and are a good source of antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. They are a whole food ingredient with minimal processing.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds that support immune function and reduce inflammation.

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Green peppers
Good

Green peppers are a nutritious vegetable providing vitamins and antioxidants. They are minimally processed, retaining their natural health benefits. High in vitamin C, they support immune health and skin vitality.

Benefits

High in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and skin vitality.

Tomato paste
Neutral

Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, providing a rich source of lycopene. It is more processed than fresh tomatoes but still retains beneficial nutrients. Used to enhance flavor and color in foods.

Benefits

Provides lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative in foods. It is a refined ingredient without trace minerals found in unrefined salts. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in foods.

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Vinegar
Neutral

Vinegar is used for its acidic properties to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a natural product with minimal processing. Provides a tangy taste and acts as a preservative.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor with its acidity.

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Sugar
Bad

Sugar is added for sweetness but is a refined carbohydrate with no essential nutrients. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes. It is a processed ingredient with negative health impacts when consumed in large amounts.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides sweetness to enhance flavor, but no significant nutritional benefits.

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Lemon juice concentrate
Neutral

Lemon juice concentrate is used for its acidic and flavor-enhancing properties. It is more processed than fresh lemon juice but retains some vitamin C. Used to add tanginess and preserve food.

Benefits

Adds flavor and provides some vitamin C, though less than fresh lemon juice.

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Chili pepper
Neutral

Chili pepper adds heat and flavor to foods and contains capsaicin, which may have health benefits. It is used in small amounts and is minimally processed. Provides a spicy kick and potential metabolic benefits.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

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

Dried jalapeño
Neutral

Dried jalapeño adds heat and flavor, similar to fresh jalapeños but with a more concentrated taste. It is a natural ingredient with minimal processing. Provides a spicy flavor and potential health benefits from capsaicin.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

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

Garlic powder
Neutral

Garlic powder is used for flavor and contains some beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic. It is more processed but still retains some health benefits. Adds flavor and potential health benefits from allicin.

Benefits

Contains allicin, which may support heart health and immune function.

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Natural flavouring
Bad

Natural flavouring is a vague term that can include a variety of substances, some of which may be highly processed. Lack of transparency makes it difficult to assess health impacts. It is often used to enhance flavor without providing nutritional benefits.

Risks

Potential for containing highly processed substances with unknown health impacts.

Benefits

Enhances flavor but provides no significant nutritional benefits.

Acidity regulator (citric acid)
Neutral

Citric acid is used to regulate acidity and preserve food. It is a common additive derived from citrus fruits or fermentation. Provides a sour taste and helps preserve food quality.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and enhance flavor with its acidity.

Firming agent (calcium chloride)
Neutral

Calcium chloride is used to maintain firmness in canned vegetables and fruits. It is a common food additive with minimal health concerns. Helps maintain texture and firmness in processed foods.

Benefits

Maintains firmness and texture in processed foods.

Modified corn starch
Neutral

Modified corn starch is used as a thickening agent in foods. It is a processed ingredient derived from corn, used to improve texture and stability. Provides no significant nutritional benefits but enhances product consistency.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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