Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa

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Common questions

Is Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa healthy?

Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This salsa contains a variety of beneficial ingredients such as diced tomatoes, onions, and capsicums, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

How processed is Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa?

Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Diced tomato, Onion, Red capsicum 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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Old El Paso Thick N Chunky Mild Salsa

Old El Paso
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 7
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by General Mills
Category Condiments
Summary

This salsa contains a variety of beneficial ingredients such as diced tomatoes, onions, and capsicums, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of added sugar and modified starch, which detract from its overall healthiness. The product's processing level limits its score despite the presence of mostly natural ingredients.

Key ingredients 15

Diced tomato
Good

Diced tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, and lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases. They are minimally processed, retaining most of their natural nutrients. The high water content also contributes to hydration.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support immune function and skin health.

Onion
Good

Onions are known for their high content of antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds, which have anti-inflammatory effects. They are a natural ingredient with minimal processing. Onions also provide dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation and support heart health.

See more about Onion →
Red capsicum
Good

Red capsicum is high in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are beneficial for immune health and vision. It is a whole food ingredient with minimal processing. The vibrant color indicates a high antioxidant content.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support immune function and eye health.

Green capsicum
Good

Green capsicum provides vitamin C and fiber, contributing to immune health and digestion. It is a minimally processed vegetable, retaining its natural nutrients. The green variety is slightly less sweet but still nutritious.

Benefits

Provides vitamins and fiber that support immune health and digestion.

Paprika
Good

Paprika is a spice rich in antioxidants and vitamins, adding flavor and color to foods. It is a minimally processed ingredient. The vibrant color indicates a high content of beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support overall health.

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Chili extract
Good

Chili extract adds heat and flavor, containing capsaicin, which may have metabolic benefits. It is a concentrated form of chili peppers. Capsaicin is linked to increased metabolism and pain relief.

Risks

May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide pain relief.

Garlic powder
Good

Garlic powder is rich in sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It is a dehydrated form of garlic, retaining most of its beneficial compounds. Garlic is known for its potential cardiovascular benefits.

Benefits

Contains compounds that support immune function and may reduce inflammation.

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Tomato paste
Neutral

Tomato paste is concentrated tomatoes, providing a rich source of lycopene and other antioxidants. It is more processed than fresh tomatoes but still retains beneficial compounds. The concentration process enhances the flavor and nutrient density.

Benefits

Concentrated source of antioxidants like lycopene, beneficial for heart health.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation but should be consumed in moderation due to potential health risks. It is a processed culinary ingredient. Excessive intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Risks

High sodium intake can increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

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Modified maize starch
Neutral

Modified maize starch is used as a thickening agent and is generally considered safe. It is a processed ingredient derived from corn. It provides no significant nutritional benefits but improves texture.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency of the product.

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White vinegar
Neutral

White vinegar is used for acidity and preservation, with minimal nutritional impact. It is a processed ingredient made through fermentation. It can enhance flavor and act as a preservative.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor.

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Flavour
Neutral

The term 'flavour' is non-specific and can include a variety of natural or artificial compounds. It is used to enhance taste but lacks transparency. The impact on health depends on the specific compounds used.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed artificial additives or allergens.

Benefits

Enhances the overall taste of the product.

Food acid (citric acid)
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer commonly used in foods. It is a processed ingredient but generally recognized as safe. It helps maintain freshness and adds a tangy flavor.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor.

Mineral salt (calcium chloride)
Neutral

Calcium chloride is used as a firming agent and is generally recognized as safe. It is a processed mineral salt. It helps maintain texture but provides no significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Helps maintain texture and firmness in foods.

Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is added for sweetness but offers no nutritional benefits and can contribute to health issues like obesity and diabetes. It is a processed ingredient with high caloric content. Excessive consumption can lead to metabolic disorders.

Risks

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

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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