Red Gold Tomato Sauce 15oz
Summary
This tomato sauce is ultra-processed, which limits its potential score. While it contains mostly recognizable ingredients like tomato puree and spices, the presence of 'natural flavors' raises concerns due to their lack of transparency and potential processing. The product has a relatively clean ingredient list with minimal additives, but the processing level impacts its overall rating.
At a glance
Key ingredients 9
Tomato PureeNeutral
Tomato puree is a concentrated form of tomatoes, providing a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. It is typically made by cooking and straining tomatoes, which retains most of the nutrients. However, it lacks the fiber content found in whole tomatoes.
Benefits
Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain diseases. Provides vitamins A and C, contributing to overall health.
WaterNeutral
Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the consistency of the sauce. It is a neutral ingredient with no nutritional value. It helps in blending other ingredients smoothly.
See more about Water →Tomato PasteNeutral
Tomato paste is a thick concentrate made by cooking tomatoes for several hours and reducing them to a thick paste. It is rich in flavor and nutrients like lycopene. However, it is more processed than fresh tomatoes.
Benefits
Contains concentrated amounts of lycopene and other antioxidants beneficial for health.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the sauce. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.
Risks
High sodium intake can increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food products.
Onion PowderNeutral
Onion powder is made from dehydrated onions and adds flavor to the sauce. It retains some of the nutritional benefits of fresh onions. However, it lacks the fiber content of whole onions.
Benefits
Provides flavor and some antioxidants found in fresh onions.
Garlic PowderNeutral
Garlic powder is made from dehydrated garlic and is used to add flavor. It retains some beneficial compounds found in fresh garlic. However, it is less potent than fresh garlic.
Benefits
Contains allicin, which may have health benefits such as supporting heart health.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is used as a preservative and to add acidity to the sauce. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is commonly used in food processing. It helps maintain the stability and shelf life of the product.
Risks
Excessive consumption may cause stomach upset in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Acts as a preservative and enhances the flavor profile of the sauce.
Natural FlavorsBad
Natural flavors are used to enhance the taste of the sauce but lack transparency regarding their specific sources. They are often highly 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 ingredients.
Dehydrated Bell PeppersNeutral
Dehydrated bell peppers add flavor and some nutrients to the sauce. They retain some vitamins and antioxidants found in fresh peppers. However, the dehydration process may reduce their overall nutrient content.
Benefits
Provides flavor and some antioxidants, such as vitamin C, found in fresh bell peppers.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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