Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix

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Common questions

Is Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix healthy?

Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This taco seasoning mix contains a variety of beneficial spices and herbs such as garlic, chile pepper, and cumin, which are minimally processed and offer health benefits.

How processed is Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix?

Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Garlic, Chile Pepper, Onion 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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Mateo’s 25% Less Sodium Taco Seasoning mix

Mateo's
70 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Spices
Summary

This taco seasoning mix contains a variety of beneficial spices and herbs such as garlic, chile pepper, and cumin, which are minimally processed and offer health benefits. However, the presence of refined sugar, which contributes empty calories, slightly detracts from its overall healthiness. Despite being a processed food, the clean ingredient list with minimal additives supports a relatively high score within its category.

Key ingredients 12

Roasted Garlic
Very Good

Roasted garlic retains many of the health benefits of fresh garlic, including antimicrobial and cardiovascular benefits. The roasting process enhances flavor while maintaining beneficial compounds. It is a minimally processed ingredient.

Benefits

May support heart health and enhance immune function.

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Garlic
Good

Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains allicin, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Fresh garlic is minimally processed, retaining its beneficial compounds.

Benefits

May support cardiovascular health and boost the immune system due to its bioactive compounds.

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Chile Pepper
Good

Chile peppers are rich in capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting and pain-relieving properties. They are a natural source of vitamins A and C. Minimal processing retains their nutritional benefits.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort or irritation.

Benefits

May enhance metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits due to high vitamin content.

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Onion
Good

Onions are a good source of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They contain quercetin, which may help reduce blood pressure. Fresh onions are minimally processed, preserving their health benefits.

Benefits

May support heart health and provide antioxidant protection.

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Cumin
Good

Cumin is a spice with potential digestive and antioxidant benefits. It contains compounds that may help improve digestion and boost the immune system. Minimal processing ensures retention of its beneficial properties.

Benefits

May aid digestion and provide antioxidant benefits.

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Sea Salt
Good

Sea salt is a natural source of sodium and trace minerals. It is less processed than table salt, retaining beneficial minerals. Used in moderation, it can enhance flavor without excessive sodium intake.

Risks

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

Benefits

Provides essential minerals and enhances flavor in foods.

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Jalapeno Pepper
Good

Jalapeno peppers are rich in vitamins A and C and contain capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory effects. They are minimally processed, retaining their nutritional benefits. They add flavor and heat to dishes.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May support metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.

Oregano
Good

Oregano is an herb with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol that may support immune health. It is minimally processed and retains its beneficial properties.

Benefits

May support immune health and provide antioxidant protection.

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Arrowroot
Neutral

Arrowroot is a starch used as a thickening agent in foods. It is gluten-free and easily digestible. It is minimally processed and does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Provides a gluten-free thickening option for culinary use.

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Silicon Dioxide
Neutral

Silicon dioxide is used as an anti-caking agent in food products. It is generally recognized as safe by food safety authorities. It does not provide nutritional benefits but helps maintain product texture.

Benefits

Helps prevent clumping and maintains product quality.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is commonly used to add acidity and preserve freshness in foods. It is generally recognized as safe and does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Helps preserve food and enhance flavor.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is associated with various health issues, including obesity and diabetes. It provides empty calories without nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to metabolic disorders.

Risks

High intake can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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