CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN receives a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature.
This product scores 35/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A single serving contains 1020mg of sodium, which is a significant amount.
Compared to generic dairy sauces, this SKU has a higher sodium level.
Consider using smaller portions to manage sodium intake when incorporating this sauce.
Scores +2 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1020mg
44% 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 (1020mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 35
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN achieves a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its high sodium content. Per 100g, this product contains 1020mg of sodium, which contributes to a significant penalty in the FoodScore calculation. The presence of ingredients like sodium phosphate and sodium citrate further contributes to the overall sodium load. Additionally, this product is categorized as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring a 10-point penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of trans fat, and provides 3.33g of protein per 100g, these positive aspects are outweighed by the high sodium and processing level. Compared to a generic dairy sauce, this CAMPBELL'S product generally contains more sodium and a longer ingredient list indicative of its ultra-processed nature.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's sauces cheese broccoli chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
This sauce offers significant convenience for consumers looking to prepare meals quickly. Its ready-to-use format can reduce meal preparation time, which can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules. While not a primary source of nutrients, its ease of use can help facilitate home-cooked meals, potentially reducing reliance on takeout or other less healthy options if paired with nutrient-dense ingredients.
Source of Dairy Components
The sauce contains dairy ingredients such as cream, cheddar cheese, and other cheeses, which contribute some calcium and protein. Per 100g, it provides 50mg of calcium (4% DV) and 3.33g of protein. While these amounts are not substantial, they do add to the overall intake of these nutrients when consumed as part of a larger meal. The dairy content also contributes to the sauce's texture and flavor.
Zero Added Sugar
One positive aspect of this product is its absence of added sugars. For individuals monitoring their sugar intake, this can be a favorable characteristic. Many processed sauces can contain hidden added sugars, so this formulation choice helps keep the overall sugar content low, aligning with dietary recommendations to limit added sugars.
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN receives a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN is typically used as a base or topping for main dishes, often with chicken or pasta. A common portion size is around 1/4 cup. Due to its high sodium content, it's important to consider how it fits into your overall daily sodium intake.
To reduce the overall sodium of your meal, dilute the sauce with a low-sodium broth or milk.
Pair this sauce with plenty of fresh or frozen vegetables and lean protein to enhance the nutrient density of your meal.
Use this sauce as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary component, opting for smaller portions to manage sodium.
Consider making your own cheese sauce from scratch using fresh ingredients to control sodium and fat content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers with specific dietary concerns might want to note. It lists milk as a primary allergen due to the cream and various cheeses, which is important for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, indicating a soy allergen for sensitive individuals. The high sodium content (1020mg per 100g) is a significant concern, especially for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The presence of modified food starch and various gums can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in very sensitive individuals, though this is not common. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several food additives, which some consumers prefer to limit in their diet.
Is CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN healthy?
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN scores 35/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it contains no added sugar and some protein, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not considered a primary source of essential nutrients.
How does CAMPBELL'S compare to a generic cheese sauce?
Compared to a generic, homemade cheese sauce, CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN typically has a significantly higher sodium content and a longer list of processed ingredients. A homemade sauce allows for greater control over sodium, fat, and the quality of ingredients. For example, a homemade sauce might use fresh cheese and milk without added starches or sodium-containing additives.
What is 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods. In CAMPBELL'S SAUCES CHEESE BROCCOLI CHICKEN, it helps achieve the desired consistency and prevents separation of ingredients. It is generally recognized as safe, but it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A typical serving size is around 1/4 cup (approximately 60g). Given the high sodium content of 1020mg per 100g, a 1/4 cup serving would still contribute a substantial amount of sodium to your meal. It's advisable to use smaller portions or dilute the sauce to manage your daily sodium intake effectively.
Can I use this sauce for vegetarian meals?
No, this sauce is not suitable for vegetarian meals as it contains multiple types of cheese made with animal enzymes, and the product is explicitly named 'Cheese Broccoli Chicken' sauce, implying its intended use with chicken. Vegetarians should look for sauces specifically labeled as vegetarian or vegan.