Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce

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Common questions

Is Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce healthy?

Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce scores 82/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This pasta sauce features a predominantly clean ingredient list with a high percentage of tomatoes and beneficial additions like extra virgin olive oil, carrots, and red chili peppers, which contribute to its nutritional value.

How processed is Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce?

Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomatoes, Tomato paste, Carrots 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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Calabrian chilli & wild fennel ragu stir-in pasta sauce

Marks & Spencer
82 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 13
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Marks and Spencer Group p.l.c.
Category Condiments
Summary

This pasta sauce features a predominantly clean ingredient list with a high percentage of tomatoes and beneficial additions like extra virgin olive oil, carrots, and red chili peppers, which contribute to its nutritional value. The presence of refined sugar is a minor drawback, but the overall processing level is moderate with minimal additives, allowing the product to maintain a relatively high score within its category.

Key ingredients 17

Extra virgin olive oil
Very Good

High-quality monounsaturated fat with anti-inflammatory properties. Contains antioxidants that support heart health. Cold-pressed extraction preserves beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory properties. Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols that may reduce oxidative stress.

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Tomatoes
Good

Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C and antioxidants like lycopene. They are minimally processed in this sauce, retaining most of their nutritional benefits. Lycopene is known for its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Benefits

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

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Tomato paste
Good

Tomato paste is concentrated, providing a higher amount of nutrients like lycopene per serving. It is made by cooking tomatoes for a long time, which enhances the bioavailability of lycopene. This ingredient supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

Benefits

High in lycopene and other antioxidants, promoting heart health and reducing oxidative stress.

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Carrots
Good

Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin K. They are included in the sauce in a minimally processed form, preserving their nutritional value. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function.

Benefits

Provides essential vitamins and fiber, supporting eye health and digestion.

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Celery
Good

Celery is low in calories and provides dietary fiber and vitamins. It is used in the sauce to enhance flavor and nutritional content. Celery contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.

Benefits

Provides fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and reducing inflammation.

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Red chilli peppers
Good

Red chilli peppers add spiciness and are rich in capsaicin, which may boost metabolism. They are used in moderation, providing flavor and potential health benefits. Capsaicin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Risks

May cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may aid in weight management and reduce inflammation.

Sea salt
Good

Sea salt is a natural source of sodium and trace minerals. It is less processed than table salt, retaining some beneficial minerals. Used in moderation, it enhances flavor without significant health risks.

Risks

Excessive consumption may contribute to high blood pressure.

Benefits

Provides essential minerals and enhances flavor.

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Onions
Good

Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds. They add flavor and nutritional value to the sauce. These compounds may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health.

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Ground paprika
Good

Ground paprika adds color and flavor and is rich in antioxidants. It is made from dried peppers and retains beneficial compounds. Paprika may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may reduce inflammation.

Garlic
Good

Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including heart health support. It contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic enhances flavor and provides nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Contains compounds that may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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Ground black pepper
Good

Ground black pepper adds flavor and contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption. It is used in small amounts, contributing to the sauce's taste profile. Piperine may also have anti-inflammatory effects.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may improve nutrient absorption.

Rosemary
Good

Rosemary is an herb with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It adds flavor and potential health benefits to the sauce. Rosemary may support digestion and improve circulation.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and may support digestion.

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Crushed fennel seeds
Good

Crushed fennel seeds add flavor and are rich in fiber and antioxidants. They are used in small amounts, enhancing the sauce's taste and nutritional profile. Fennel seeds may aid digestion and reduce inflammation.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and reducing inflammation.

Barolo Wine DOCG
Neutral

Barolo Wine DOCG adds flavor complexity to the sauce. It is used in small amounts, contributing to the sauce's taste profile. The alcohol content is likely reduced during cooking.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without significant nutritional impact.

Rice starch
Neutral

Rice starch is used as a thickening agent in the sauce. It is a refined carbohydrate with minimal nutritional value. It helps achieve the desired texture without altering flavor.

Benefits

Provides texture without significant nutritional impact.

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Acidity regulator (citric acid)
Neutral

Citric acid is used to regulate acidity and preserve the sauce. It is a common food additive with no significant nutritional value. Citric acid is generally recognized as safe when used in food products.

Benefits

Helps preserve the product and maintain flavor stability.

Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is added for sweetness but offers no nutritional benefits. It is a source of empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues. Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health problems.

Risks

High intake may lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

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Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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