BARILLA TOMATO & BASIL SAUCE, TOMATO & BASIL scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
FoodScore: 47/100 (Decent) for BARILLA Tomato & Basil Sauce.
Contains 2.4g of fiber per 100g, contributing to digestive health.
A serving contains 3.92g of added sugar, a factor in its NOVA 3 classification.
Higher in sodium (320mg/100g) compared to whole-food alternatives.
Best used as an ingredient in meals rather than a standalone snack.
Scores +6 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.92g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
320mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.9g)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
BARILLA TOMATO & BASIL SAUCE, TOMATO & BASIL receives a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and aspects that detract from its overall nutritional profile. The product gains points for its fiber content, providing 2.4g per 100g, and a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 44% of the Daily Value. However, it incurs penalties due to its added sugar content of 3.92g per 100g, which is a consideration for daily intake limits. The presence of sugar as a specific ingredient contributes to this. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food also leads to a significant penalty. While it offers some vitamins and fiber, it falls short when compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, which typically provide more diverse micronutrients and no added sugars or processing penalties.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla tomato & basil sauce, tomato & basil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This BARILLA sauce provides a good source of Vitamin A, contributing 44% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Incorporating this sauce into meals can help meet daily requirements for this micronutrient, especially when paired with other Vitamin A-rich foods.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 2.4g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily dietary fiber intake. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and support a healthy gut microbiome. While not exceptionally high, this amount can still be a beneficial addition to meals, particularly when combined with other fiber-rich ingredients like whole grains and vegetables.
Convenient Meal Component
BARILLA Tomato & Basil Sauce offers a convenient base for home-cooked meals, making it easier to prepare dishes with vegetables and lean proteins. Its ready-to-use format can encourage more frequent cooking at home, which often leads to healthier eating habits than relying on takeout. This convenience can be a practical benefit for individuals with busy schedules.
BARILLA TOMATO & BASIL SAUCE, TOMATO & BASIL scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
Tomato and basil sauce is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or an ingredient in casseroles and stews. A common serving size is 1/2 cup, which can easily be incorporated into a balanced meal.
Pair with whole-wheat pasta and lean protein like chicken or lentils to create a more balanced and filling meal.
Enhance the nutritional value by adding extra vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to your sauce.
Use as a base for homemade pizza, spreading it thinly and topping with fresh vegetables and low-fat cheese.
Consider diluting with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth to slightly reduce the sodium concentration per bite.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains sea salt and has a sodium content of 320mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be mindful of portion sizes and consider balancing it with lower-sodium foods throughout the day. The inclusion of sugar as an ingredient contributes to the added sugar content, which should be considered within daily limits, especially for individuals managing blood sugar levels. While generally safe for most populations, those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities to ingredients like citric acid should review the label carefully.
BARILLA Tomato & Basil Sauce scores 47/100, indicating it's a decent option. It provides some fiber and Vitamin A but also contains added sugar and sodium. It can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does BARILLA Tomato & Basil Sauce compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to many other branded pasta sauces like Prego Traditional, BARILLA's sauce often has a similar nutritional profile regarding added sugar and sodium. Some premium or organic brands might offer lower added sugar or sodium, but it's essential to check individual labels for specific comparisons.
What does 'natural flavor' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' refers to a flavor derived from a natural source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, or herb. While natural, these flavors are processed and can be complex mixtures of chemicals. Their specific composition is not disclosed on the label.
What is a recommended portion size for this sauce?
The recommended serving size is 1/2 cup. Adhering to this portion helps manage your intake of added sugar and sodium. When used as an ingredient, consider the total nutritional contribution to your meal.
Can I use this sauce if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
This sauce contains 3.92g of added sugar per 100g. If you are actively reducing sugar, you might look for sauces with no added sugar or make your own. However, in moderation, it can still fit into a diet focused on overall sugar reduction.