BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE, MERLOT WINE
BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and moderate sodium content.
FoodScore: 45/100 (Decent), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Contains 1.6g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its overall score.
Sodium content is 288mg per 100g, which is a consideration for daily intake.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), distinguishing it from less processed alternatives.
A 1/2 cup serving provides 1.6g of fiber, supporting digestive health.
Scores -2 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
288mg
13% 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
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects its composition as a processed food, classified as NOVA 3, which incurs a penalty. While it contains some beneficial ingredients like tomato puree and diced tomatoes, the presence of added sugar (1.6g per 100g) and a moderate sodium level (288mg per 100g) prevent a higher score. The ingredient list includes potassium metabisulfite, a preservative, which is common in processed sauces. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent baseline, which would typically offer higher fiber and lower added sugars and sodium, this BERTOLLI sauce presents a different nutritional profile. Its fat content is low at 0.8g per 100g, with no saturated or trans fats, which is a positive aspect, but it does not significantly contribute to bonus points.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bertolli vineyard marinara with merlot wine sauce, merlot wine actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Lycopene from Tomatoes
This BERTOLLI sauce is primarily made from tomato puree and diced tomatoes, which are naturally rich in lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that contributes to the red color of tomatoes. While the processing involved in creating a sauce can affect nutrient levels, tomatoes remain a valuable source of this compound. Consuming tomato-based products can contribute to your daily intake of various plant compounds, supporting overall dietary diversity.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 1.6g of fiber per 100g serving, this marinara sauce contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain regular bowel movements. While not a primary source of fiber, incorporating sauces like this into meals that also include whole grains, vegetables, and legumes can help you reach your recommended daily fiber goals. Fiber also plays a role in satiety, which can be beneficial for managing portion sizes.
Low in Saturated and Trans Fats
BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE contains 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their intake of these types of fats, which are often associated with cardiovascular health. The fat content primarily comes from olive oil, which is a source of monounsaturated fats. Choosing products low in saturated and trans fats aligns with general dietary recommendations for a balanced eating pattern.
BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and moderate sodium content.
How to eat it
Marinara sauce is a versatile pantry staple, commonly used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or a dipping sauce. A typical serving size is 1/2 cup, which can easily be incorporated into various meals. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially when pairing with other ingredients.
Pair with whole-wheat pasta and plenty of non-starchy vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrient content.
Use as a base for a homemade pizza, adding lean protein like chicken or mushrooms and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a balanced meal.
To reduce overall sodium intake, combine this sauce with an equal portion of no-salt-added crushed tomatoes when preparing a larger dish.
Incorporate into a vegetarian lasagna or a baked chicken dish to add flavor without significantly increasing fat content.
Consider using it as a dipping sauce for baked whole-grain crackers or vegetable sticks for a flavorful snack.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains potassium metabisulfite, a preservative that can cause allergic-type reactions in some sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with sulfite sensitivity should be aware of its presence. The sauce also contains added sugar, which contributes to the overall carbohydrate content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels should consider the 1.6g of added sugar per 100g serving in their daily intake. The sodium content of 288mg per 100g is moderate; those on a sodium-restricted diet should account for this when planning meals.
Is BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE healthy?
This BERTOLLI sauce scores 45/100 on FoodScore, indicating a 'Decent' nutritional profile. It provides some fiber and is low in saturated fat. However, it is classified as NOVA 3 (processed) and contains moderate sodium and added sugar. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern and portion control.
How does BERTOLLI compare to other marinara sauces?
Compared to a generic plain marinara sauce, BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE has similar nutritional values in terms of calories and fat. However, specific brands like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce may have different ingredient lists, sometimes with lower added sugar or sodium, depending on the specific SKU. Always compare the nutrition labels for the most accurate comparison.
What is potassium metabisulfite and why is it in this sauce?
Potassium metabisulfite is a food additive used as a preservative to prevent spoilage and maintain the color and freshness of the sauce. It helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria and molds, extending the product's shelf life. It is generally safe for consumption, but some individuals, particularly those with sulfite allergies, may experience adverse reactions.
What is a reasonable portion size for this marinara sauce?
The recommended serving size for BERTOLLI VINEYARD MARINARA WITH MERLOT WINE SAUCE is 1/2 cup (125g). This portion provides 60 calories, 2g of protein, and 360mg of sodium. Sticking to this serving size helps manage your intake of sodium and added sugars, especially when combined with other meal components.
Can I use this sauce if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
This sauce contains 1.6g of added sugar per 100g, which is a relatively small amount compared to some other sauces. If you are actively trying to reduce your sugar intake, you can still incorporate this sauce, but be mindful of other sources of added sugar in your diet. Alternatively, look for marinara sauces explicitly labeled 'no added sugar' for a lower sugar option.