Tomato sauce for pasta

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Common questions

Is Tomato sauce for pasta healthy?

Tomato sauce for pasta scores 71/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This tomato sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and garlic, which provide vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

How processed is Tomato sauce for pasta?

Tomato sauce for pasta is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Tomato sauce for pasta's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomato, Onion, Extra virgin olive oil 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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Tomato sauce for pasta

Waitrose
71 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by John Lewis Partnership
Category Condiments
Summary

This tomato sauce contains beneficial ingredients like tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and garlic, which provide vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. However, the presence of added sugar and its processed nature limit its score. Despite being processed, the sauce maintains a relatively clean ingredient list, contributing to a moderate score.

Key ingredients 11

Tomato
Very Good

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene. They are minimally processed in this product, retaining most of their nutritional benefits. Lycopene is known for its potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Benefits

High in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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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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Onion
Good

Onions are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They add flavor and nutritional value to the sauce. The presence of quercetin, an antioxidant, may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

Benefits

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

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Tomato purée
Good

Tomato purée is concentrated tomato, providing a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. It enhances the flavor and nutritional profile of the sauce. The concentration process retains most of the beneficial compounds found in fresh tomatoes.

Benefits

Provides a concentrated source of lycopene and other antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Garlic purée
Good

Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and cardiovascular support. The purée form retains these benefits while enhancing the sauce's flavor. Allicin, a compound in garlic, may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Benefits

May support heart health and immune function due to its antimicrobial properties and beneficial compounds like allicin.

Basil
Good

Basil adds flavor and contains essential oils with potential health benefits. It is a source of antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. The herb enhances the sauce's aroma and nutritional profile.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and essential oils that may support health and reduce inflammation.

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Chilli powder
Good

Chilli powder adds spice and contains capsaicin, which may offer health benefits. It can boost metabolism and provide antioxidants. The spice enhances flavor while potentially supporting metabolic health.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.

Dried red chillies
Good

Dried red chillies provide heat and are rich in capsaicin, known for its potential health benefits. They add depth of flavor and nutritional value to the sauce. Capsaicin may help with pain relief and metabolic health.

Risks

Can cause irritation or digestive discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Rich in capsaicin, which may support metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory effects.

Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the consistency of the sauce. It is a neutral ingredient with no direct nutritional impact. Its presence ensures the sauce has the desired texture and fluidity.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve the sauce. It is a common ingredient in processed foods but should be consumed in moderation. Excessive salt intake can lead to health issues, but in moderate amounts, it is essential for bodily functions.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

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

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is added for sweetness but offers no nutritional benefits. It can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential health issues like obesity and diabetes. Its presence in processed foods is often unnecessary and should be minimized.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, increased risk of diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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