BERTOLLI TRADITIONAL MARINARA WITH ITALIAN HERBS & FRESH GARLIC SAUCE, TRADITIONAL MARINARA
BERTOLLI TRADITIONAL MARINARA WITH ITALIAN HERBS & FRESH GARLIC SAUCE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
This BERTOLLI sauce has a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A 1/2 cup serving contains 392mg of sodium, 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 offers less fiber and higher sodium.
Consider portion control and pairing with low-sodium ingredients to balance its nutritional impact.
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
392mg
17% 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 (392mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
BERTOLLI TRADITIONAL MARINARA WITH ITALIAN HERBS & FRESH GARLIC SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its high sodium content and its classification as a processed food. Per 100g, this sauce contains 392mg of sodium, which is a significant contributor to the daily recommended limit and incurs a penalty in the FoodScore algorithm. The product also contains added sugar (1.6g per 100g), which, while not the primary driver of the low score, contributes to its overall nutritional profile. The ingredient list includes sugar as the sixth ingredient, indicating its presence beyond naturally occurring sugars in tomatoes. As a NOVA class 3 food, it is considered processed, leading to a 5-point penalty. While it provides some protein (1.6g) and fiber (1.6g) per 100g, these amounts are not substantial enough to offset the penalties. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and less sodium, this BERTOLLI sauce falls short in key nutritional areas.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bertolli traditional marinara with italian herbs & fresh garlic sauce, traditional marinara actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Lycopene
Tomatoes, the primary ingredient in this sauce, are naturally rich in lycopene, an antioxidant. Lycopene is a carotenoid responsible for the red color of tomatoes and is associated with various health benefits. While cooking tomatoes, as in this sauce, can sometimes increase the bioavailability of lycopene, the overall nutritional impact of the product should be considered.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This marinara sauce provides 1.6g of fiber per 100g, primarily from the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While not a high-fiber food, it can contribute a modest amount of fiber to a meal, especially when combined with other fiber-rich ingredients.
Versatile Culinary Base
BERTOLLI Traditional Marinara Sauce serves as a convenient base for various home-cooked meals. Its flavor profile, enhanced by ingredients like garlic, parsley, basil, and oregano, can make it easier to incorporate vegetables and lean proteins into dishes. This can encourage home cooking, which often allows for better control over overall meal nutrition compared to eating out.
BERTOLLI TRADITIONAL MARINARA WITH ITALIAN HERBS & FRESH GARLIC SAUCE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
This marinara sauce is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or an ingredient in casseroles. A common portion is 1/2 cup, which can contribute significantly to the flavor of a meal.
To reduce the overall sodium of a meal, pair this sauce with unsalted pasta or fresh vegetables.
Enhance the nutritional value by adding extra fresh vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Use this sauce as a base for a homemade pizza with a whole-wheat crust and plenty of lean protein.
Consider diluting the sauce with a small amount of unsalted tomato puree to reduce sodium per serving.
Portion control is key; measure out the 1/2 cup serving to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the sodium content in BERTOLLI Traditional Marinara Sauce, which is 392mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should account for this when planning meals. The ingredient list includes sugar, which contributes 1.6g of added sugar per 100g. While not excessively high, it's a factor for individuals managing blood sugar levels. The sauce also contains calcium chloride and citric acid, common food additives used for texture and preservation, which are generally recognized as safe for consumption. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
Is BERTOLLI Traditional Marinara With Italian Herbs & Fresh Garlic Sauce healthy?
BERTOLLI Traditional Marinara With Italian Herbs & Fresh Garlic Sauce scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some beneficial compounds from tomatoes like lycopene and a small amount of fiber, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food contribute to its lower score. It's best consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
How does BERTOLLI Traditional Marinara compare to other brands?
Compared to other marinara sauces, such as Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce, BERTOLLI's sodium content (392mg per 100g) is relatively high. Some competing brands may offer lower sodium or no added sugar options. Always check the nutrition facts label for specific comparisons on sodium, added sugar, and fiber content when choosing a sauce.
What is the role of 'calcium chloride' in this sauce?
Calcium chloride is included in this sauce primarily as a firming agent for the diced tomatoes. It helps maintain the texture and integrity of the tomato pieces, preventing them from becoming too soft during processing and storage. It is a common food additive and generally considered safe.
What is a reasonable portion size for this marinara sauce?
The recommended serving size for this BERTOLLI marinara sauce is 1/2 cup (125g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and added sugar. For individuals looking to reduce these components further, using a slightly smaller portion or diluting it with low-sodium ingredients can be beneficial.
Can this sauce be used in a low-carb diet?
With 1.6g of added sugar per 100g, this sauce contains some carbohydrates. While it can fit into some low-carb approaches, individuals following very strict ketogenic or low-carb diets should be mindful of the total carbohydrate count from all ingredients in their meal. Always check the full nutritional information against your specific dietary goals.