FoodScore
0/ 100
PoordairyCAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY· 1 POUCH (255G)

CAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE

CAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE scores 41/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, largely due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 41/100, indicating a Poor nutritional rating.
  • It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • A single serving contains 345.1mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount.
  • Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this product offers less protein and fiber.
  • Consider this product as an occasional convenience item rather than a dietary staple.
  • Scores +8 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
5.49g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
345.1mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.5g)+1
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 41

CAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 41 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. A primary factor contributing to this score is its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While it provides a modest 5.49g of protein per 100g, earning a small bonus, this is offset by other nutritional aspects. The product contains 4.31g of total fat per 100g, with 2.75g being saturated fat. Sodium content is 345.1mg per 100g, which is a moderate level for a convenience food. Notably, the ingredient list includes enriched macaroni pasta and pasteurized process cheddar cheese, indicating a formulation that relies on processed components. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which might offer higher protein density and fewer processed ingredients, this CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in campbell soup pace sauces pasta cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Protein

This product contains 5.49g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for overall bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, it can help meet protein needs when combined with other protein-rich foods throughout the day. The protein primarily comes from the cheese and enriched macaroni pasta components.

Convenient Meal Component

As a pre-packaged sauce with pasta, this product offers a convenient option for quick meals. Its ready-to-eat format can be useful for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. This convenience can help prevent skipping meals, which is important for maintaining consistent energy levels and nutrient intake. It is designed for ease of use and minimal cooking effort.

Contains Some Calcium

With 58.82mg of calcium per 100g, providing 5% of the Daily Value, this product contributes a small amount of this essential mineral. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, as well as nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a primary source, it adds to the overall calcium intake when consumed as part of a varied diet, primarily from the cheese ingredients.

How to eat it

This product is typically consumed as a quick, ready-to-eat meal or side dish. It's often heated and served directly from the pouch, making it a convenient option for lunches or simple dinners. A common portion is the entire pouch (255g).

To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Pair with a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or fish to create a more balanced meal and increase satiety.
Be mindful of the portion size; while a pouch is a single serving, consider sharing or saving half if you are aiming for calorie moderation.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and additional nutrients without excessive calories or sodium.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with allergies to milk, wheat, or egg should avoid this product, as these common allergens are present in the ingredients. The product contains pasteurized process cheddar cheese and other processed ingredients, contributing to its ultra-processed classification. While no artificial colors are listed, apocarotenal and annatto extract are used for color. The sodium content of 345.1mg per 100g is moderate, and those monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should consider this in their overall daily consumption. The presence of modified food starch and sugar, though not added sugar, also points to its processed nature.

Swap suggestions
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY
Score85
Very good
OPEN NATURE PEANUT BUTTER DATE BARS, PEANUT BUTTER
Score85
Very good
ONCE AGAIN CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED MAPLE ALMOND BUTTER, CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED
Score84
Reader questions
Is CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE healthy?
This product scores 41/100 on FoodScore, indicating a Poor nutritional rating. It is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA class 4) and contains moderate sodium. While it offers some protein and calcium, it is not considered a health-promoting food for regular consumption.
How does CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE compare to a generic dairy equivalent?
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain cheddar cheese, this product is more processed and contains added components like enriched macaroni pasta. A generic dairy product would typically offer a higher concentration of protein and calcium per calorie, with fewer processed ingredients and less sodium if unsalted.
What is 'enriched macaroni pasta'?
Enriched macaroni pasta refers to pasta made from semolina (wheat) that has had certain B vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron (ferrous sulfate) added back after processing. This enrichment helps restore nutrients lost during the milling of wheat.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 1 pouch (255g). This provides 301 calories, 14g of protein, and 880mg of sodium. For those managing calorie or sodium intake, consuming the entire pouch might be a significant portion, and it could be considered for sharing or as part of a larger, more balanced meal.
Can I store leftovers of this product?
Once opened, any unused portion of CAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE should be refrigerated promptly in an airtight container. For best quality and safety, consume leftovers within 1-2 days. Always follow the storage instructions on the product packaging.
Does this product contain real cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list includes 'pasteurized process cheddar cheese' and 'cheddar cheese,' indicating the presence of real cheese components. However, the 'pasteurized process cheddar cheese' also includes water, sodium phosphate, and milk fat, which are common in processed cheese products.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll Bell & Evans SKUs Competitor · 65/100BREAKSTONE'S 2% Lowfat Cottage Cheese Competitor · 65/100FAIRLIFE WHOLE ULTRA-FILTERED MILK Head-to-headCAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE vs. BREAKSTONE'S 2% Lowfat Cottage Cheese Head-to-headCAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE vs. FAIRLIFE WHOLE ULTRA-FILTERED MILK Head-to-headCAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE vs. GOOD CULTURE DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC COTTAGE CHEESE, DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC Head-to-headCAMPBELL SOUP PACE SAUCES PASTA CHEESE vs. GOOD CULTURE DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC SIMPLY 6% SMALL CURD COTTAGE CHEESE, DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC Fits dietCarnivore diet →

Data & references