Traditional Salsa

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Common questions

Is Traditional Salsa healthy?

Traditional Salsa scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This traditional salsa is made with a clean ingredient list featuring tomatoes, tomatillos, and onions, which are minimally processed and retain their nutritional benefits.

How processed is Traditional Salsa?

Traditional Salsa is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Traditional Salsa's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomatoes, Tomatillos, Onions count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Traditional Salsa

Herdez
70 Good

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Hormel Foods
Category Condiments
Summary

This traditional salsa is made with a clean ingredient list featuring tomatoes, tomatillos, and onions, which are minimally processed and retain their nutritional benefits. The product avoids harmful additives and seed oils, making it a healthier option within its category. However, as a processed food, its score is limited by its processing level.

Key ingredients 10

Tomatoes
Good

Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C and contain antioxidants like lycopene. They are minimally processed in this product, retaining most of their nutritional benefits. The inclusion of tomato juice and calcium chloride for firming is standard in canned products.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health and reducing inflammation.

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Tomatillos
Good

Tomatillos are low in calories and provide dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are used in their whole form, contributing to the salsa's flavor and nutritional profile. Their natural acidity enhances the product's taste without the need for artificial additives.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber and essential vitamins, supporting digestive health and nutrient intake.

Onions
Good

Onions are a good source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and folic acid. They are used fresh in this product, maintaining their health benefits. Onions also contain antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support immune function and reduce inflammation.

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Jalapeno peppers
Neutral

Jalapeno peppers add spice and flavor to the salsa without significant processing. They contain capsaicin, which may have metabolic benefits. However, their contribution to the overall nutritional profile is minimal.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

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

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the product. It is a common culinary ingredient with no additional processing in this context. The sodium content should be monitored for those on a low-sodium diet.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to high blood pressure and related health issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in the product.

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Water
Neutral

Water is used as a base ingredient to adjust the consistency of the salsa. It is a neutral ingredient with no nutritional impact. Its presence helps blend the flavors of the other ingredients.

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Dehydrated garlic
Neutral

Dehydrated garlic provides flavor and some nutritional benefits, such as antioxidants. It is a minimally processed ingredient that retains some of the health benefits of fresh garlic. However, its contribution to the overall nutritional profile is limited.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants that may support immune health.

Garlic puree
Neutral

Garlic puree adds flavor and some nutritional value, similar to fresh garlic. It is processed to a paste form, which may slightly reduce its nutritional content. Its primary role is to enhance the taste of the salsa.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some antioxidants, supporting overall health.

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Distilled vinegar
Neutral

Distilled vinegar is used to add acidity and preserve the salsa. It is a common culinary ingredient with minimal processing. Its primary function is to enhance flavor and extend shelf life.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer in the product.

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Red jalapeno peppers
Neutral

Red jalapeno peppers contribute spice and flavor to the salsa. They are preserved in vinegar, which is a standard practice for such ingredients. Their nutritional contribution is minimal but they enhance the product's taste.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Adds flavor and contains capsaicin, which may have metabolic benefits.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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