CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and sodium levels.
Contains 341.67mg of sodium per 100g, which is a significant amount.
Provides 46% DV of Vitamin A, a notable micronutrient contribution.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), indicating a highly modified food product.
A single serving can be a quick meal option, but consider its nutritional profile.
Scores -4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
341.67mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product does offer a bonus for its Vitamin A content, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g, this is offset by other nutritional factors. A key concern is the sodium content, at 341.67mg per 100g, which is relatively high and can contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits if consumed frequently or in larger portions. The ingredient list also includes high fructose corn syrup, a caloric sweetener, and maltodextrin, a rapidly digested carbohydrate, which are common in ultra-processed items. Compared to a home-cooked chicken noodle soup made with whole ingredients, CAMPBELL'S version typically contains more sodium and less fiber (0.8g per 100g), and often includes a longer list of additives and modified ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's hr chicken noodle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This product is a good source of Vitamin A, contributing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports various bodily functions, including vision, immune function, and cell growth. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, the presence of carrots and other ingredients contributes to this specific vitamin content, which can be beneficial when included as part of a varied diet.
Convenient Meal Option
CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE offers significant convenience as a ready-to-eat meal. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, or in situations where cooking is not feasible, this product provides a quick and accessible option. Its ease of preparation can help ensure a meal is consumed, preventing skipped meals, though its nutritional profile should be considered in the context of overall dietary intake.
Hydration Support
As a soup, this product has a high water content, which contributes to daily fluid intake. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for numerous bodily processes, including nutrient transport, temperature regulation, and joint lubrication. While plain water is the primary source of hydration, soups can be a supplemental way to increase fluid intake, especially during illness or colder months.
CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
How to eat it
CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE is typically consumed as a quick lunch or light dinner. It's often heated and eaten directly from the can or a bowl, sometimes accompanied by crackers or bread. A common pitfall is consuming the entire can, which can lead to a higher intake of sodium than intended.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn to your serving.
Pair with a side salad or a piece of fruit to increase fiber and micronutrient intake, creating a more balanced meal.
If concerned about sodium, dilute with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth, though this may alter the flavor.
Portion control is key; consider consuming half a can and saving the rest, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to monitor. The presence of mechanically separated chicken and milk solids indicates a highly processed formulation. Allergens declared on the label include wheat, eggs, milk, and soy, which are common sensitivities. Individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should avoid this product due to wheat flour in the enriched egg noodles. The sodium content, at 341.67mg per 100g, is a significant consideration for those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet. While not alarmingly high for a single serving, regular consumption could contribute to exceeding daily sodium recommendations.
Is CAMPBELL'S Homestyle Chicken Noodle soup healthy?
CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it provides some Vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its relatively high sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a diet as an occasional convenience food, but it is not a primary source of comprehensive nutrition.
How does CAMPBELL'S HR Chicken Noodle compare to other chicken noodle soups?
Compared to a homemade chicken noodle soup using whole ingredients, CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE typically has a higher sodium content and a longer list of processed ingredients. When comparing to other canned soups like Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle, nutritional profiles can vary, so checking the specific nutrition facts panel is always recommended for sodium and ingredient differences.
What is 'mechanically separated chicken' in the ingredient list?
Mechanically separated chicken is a paste-like poultry product produced by forcing bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in some processed meat products and contributes to the overall protein content, but is generally considered a less desirable form of protein compared to whole chicken meat.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is per 100g. A typical can contains multiple servings. To manage sodium intake, it's advisable to consume a single serving or half a can, especially if you are eating other sodium-containing foods throughout the day. Monitoring total daily sodium is more important than focusing on a single food item.
Can this soup be part of a low-calorie diet?
With 50 calories per 100g, CAMPBELL'S HR CHICKEN NOODLE is relatively low in calories. However, its nutritional density is also limited. For a low-calorie diet, it's important to prioritize foods that offer a higher nutrient-to-calorie ratio, such as vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, to ensure adequate micronutrient intake.