Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle

Common questions

Is Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle healthy?

Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomato paste, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar, which contribute to its nutritional value.

How processed is Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle?

Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomato Paste, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder count in its favor; Natural Flavor 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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Cholula Taco Topping & Cooking Sauce 12.0 fl oz Bottle

Cholula
65 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 6
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by McCormick & Company, Incorporated
Category Condiments
Summary

This sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomato paste, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar, which contribute to its nutritional value. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of additives like natural flavors and xanthan gum. The processing level and the inclusion of these additives limit its health score despite the presence of some wholesome ingredients.

Key ingredients 12

Tomato Paste
Good

Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, providing a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant. It is minimally processed and retains many nutrients found in fresh tomatoes. It enhances flavor and nutritional content.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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Garlic Powder
Good

Garlic powder is derived from dehydrated garlic and retains many of its beneficial compounds. It is known for its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It adds flavor and potential health benefits to foods.

Benefits

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

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Onion Powder
Good

Onion powder is made from dehydrated onions and retains many of the nutrients and flavors of fresh onions. It is a source of antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects. It enhances flavor and nutritional content.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and may support immune health.

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Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

May provide antioxidants and enhance flavor without adding calories.

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Peppers (Arbol And Piquin)
Good

Peppers like Arbol and Piquin are rich in vitamins and capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting effects. They add heat and flavor to dishes. They are minimally processed and retain their nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins A and C, and capsaicin, which may support metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Good

Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice and contains acetic acid and beneficial bacteria. It is known for potential health benefits like aiding digestion and supporting blood sugar control. It is minimally processed and retains beneficial compounds.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to enamel erosion or digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May support digestion and blood sugar regulation due to acetic acid content.

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Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient used as a base in many food products. It does not contribute any nutritional value or health risks. It serves as a solvent for other ingredients.

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Distilled Vinegar
Neutral

Distilled vinegar is a common acidic ingredient used for flavoring and preservation. It is made through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. It provides tanginess but has no significant nutritional value.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to enamel erosion or digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May aid in food preservation and enhance flavor.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common culinary ingredient but does not provide additional nutritional benefits. Excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits

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

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Acetic Acid
Neutral

Acetic acid is a component of vinegar and is used as a preservative and flavoring agent. It is naturally occurring and generally recognized as safe. It contributes to the tangy flavor of foods.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May aid in food preservation and enhance flavor.

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Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide used as a thickening agent in foods. It is produced by fermentation of sugars by Xanthomonas campestris. It is generally considered safe but provides no nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in large amounts for sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of food products.

See more about Xanthan Gum →
Natural Flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are additives used to enhance taste but lack transparency in their composition. They can contain a variety of chemicals derived from natural sources. The lack of disclosure can be concerning for those with allergies or sensitivities.

Risks

Potential for allergic reactions or sensitivities due to undisclosed ingredients.

See more about Natural Flavor →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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