BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE, FIRE ROASTED GARLIC
BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
This BERTOLLI sauce received a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A serving contains 416mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
It is classified as NOVA class 3, meaning it is a processed food.
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this sauce has higher sodium and added sugar.
Consider using smaller portions or diluting with unsalted ingredients to manage sodium intake.
Scores -3 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
416mg
18% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Sodium (416mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE earns a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its high sodium content, which incurs a significant penalty. At 416mg of sodium per 100g, a single 1/2 cup serving contributes a notable portion of the daily recommended limit. The product also receives a penalty for being a NOVA class 3 food, indicating it is processed. While it contains organic ingredients like organic tomato puree and organic diced tomatoes, the presence of organic cane sugar contributes 1.6g of added sugar per 100g, which is a factor in its overall nutritional assessment. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this marinara sauce generally has higher levels of sodium and added sugars, which are common characteristics of many prepared sauces. The fat content, at 3.6g total fat per 100g, is moderate, with low saturated fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bertolli fire roasted garlic marinara sauce, fire roasted garlic actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Lycopene from Tomatoes
This marinara sauce is made with organic tomato puree and organic diced tomatoes, which are natural sources of lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid that contributes to the red color of tomatoes and is known for its antioxidant properties. Including tomato-based products like BERTOLLI marinara sauce can help contribute to your intake of this compound, which is better absorbed when cooked with a small amount of fat, as is present in this sauce.
Contribution to Vegetable Intake
Incorporating this BERTOLLI marinara sauce into meals can be a convenient way to increase vegetable consumption, particularly tomatoes. While it is a processed product, it still provides a base of vegetables. Pairing it with other vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, can further boost your daily vegetable intake and add more fiber and micronutrients to your meal.
Flavorful Base for Meals
The inclusion of organic garlic powder, organic garlic, and organic roasted garlic provides a robust flavor profile to this sauce. This can make it easier to prepare palatable meals, especially for those who find plain vegetables or whole grains less appealing. Using a flavorful sauce can encourage the consumption of otherwise nutrient-dense but bland ingredients, helping to diversify your diet.
BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Marinara sauce is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or a dipping sauce. A common serving size is 1/2 cup. Given its sodium content, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and other salty components in your meal.
To reduce overall sodium, dilute the sauce with unsalted crushed tomatoes or a low-sodium vegetable broth.
Pair with whole-wheat pasta or zoodles to increase fiber intake and balance the meal.
Use as a base for dishes rich in vegetables, such as ratatouille or vegetable lasagna, to boost nutrient density.
Consider using a smaller portion of the sauce and enhancing flavor with fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of relying solely on the sauce.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE is its high sodium content of 416mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or at risk for cardiovascular disease, should consume this product in moderation. While the ingredient list includes organic soybean oil, which is a common allergen, this product does not contain major allergens like milk, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, or egg. The presence of citric acid and calcium chloride as processing aids is generally safe for most consumers. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors to note in this formulation.
BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE scores 44/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. While it provides some beneficial compounds from tomatoes, its high sodium content is a significant factor. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other low-sodium, nutrient-dense foods.
How does BERTOLLI compare to other marinara sauces?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent baseline, this BERTOLLI sauce has higher sodium and added sugar. When comparing to other branded marinara sauces like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce, BERTOLLI often contains more added sugar and sodium, though specific nutritional profiles vary by product. Always check the Nutrition Facts label for direct comparisons.
What is 'organic cane sugar' in this sauce?
Organic cane sugar is a form of added sugar derived from sugarcane that has been processed according to organic standards. In this BERTOLLI sauce, it contributes 1.6g of added sugar per 100g, which is a factor in its overall nutritional assessment. While organic, it is still a caloric sweetener.
What is a reasonable portion size for this marinara sauce?
The declared serving size for BERTOLLI FIRE ROASTED GARLIC MARINARA SAUCE is 1/2 cup (125g). Given its sodium content, sticking to this portion size or even using less can help manage your daily sodium intake. Consider using it as a flavor enhancer rather than the main component of a dish.
Can I use this sauce for meal prepping?
Yes, this sauce can be used for meal prepping. However, be mindful of the sodium content when planning multiple meals. To create a more balanced meal, pair it with lean protein sources and plenty of non-starchy vegetables. Store any unused portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.