CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its **ultra-processed classification** and high sodium content.
FoodScore: 39/100 (Poor) due to processing and sodium.
Contains 350.83mg sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 2.86g protein and 1.2g fiber per 100g.
A home-cooked version would offer more whole ingredients and less processing.
Scores -8 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
2.86g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
350.83mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (350.8mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup scores 39 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is significantly influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a substantial penalty. While the product contains vegetables like carrots, potatoes, peas, and green beans, the overall formulation includes several ingredients indicative of extensive processing. For example, the presence of modified cornstarch, soy sauce (which includes maltodextrin), yeast extract, and hydrolyzed wheat gluten points to a complex manufacturing process. The sodium content is also a notable factor, at 350.83mg per 100g, contributing to a penalty. On the positive side, it contains no added sugar and has a relatively low total fat content of 0.61g per 100g. However, compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product offers a less nutrient-dense profile and a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's chunky beef with country vegetables soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Meal Option
This soup offers a quick and accessible meal solution for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. Its ready-to-eat format means it can be heated and consumed rapidly, which can be beneficial in situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. While not a substitute for a balanced, home-cooked meal, it serves as a practical option for occasional use.
Source of Protein
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup provides 2.86g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle maintenance and repair, among other bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, this amount can help in feeling satisfied, especially when combined with other protein sources in a meal.
Contains Some Vegetables
The soup includes several vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, celery, peas, and green beans. These ingredients contribute some dietary fiber and micronutrients, although the amounts are modest per 100g serving. Incorporating vegetables, even in processed forms, can be a step towards increasing overall vegetable consumption in the diet.
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its ultra-processed classification and high sodium content.
How to eat it
This soup is typically consumed as a standalone meal or a component of a larger meal. It is designed for quick preparation, usually heated on a stovetop or in a microwave. Common portion sizes are often a full can, which can lead to higher intake of certain nutrients like sodium.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, kale, or extra carrots to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Pair with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a piece of whole-grain bread to create a more balanced and filling meal.
To manage sodium intake, consider consuming half a can and supplementing with other low-sodium foods, or diluting with low-sodium broth.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with wheat, sesame, or soy allergies should note that these allergens are declared on the label. The product contains several ingredients that contribute to its ultra-processed classification, such as modified cornstarch and various flavorings, which may be a consideration for those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed foods. The sodium content of 350.83mg per 100g is relatively high, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation.
Is CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup a healthy choice?
This soup scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, largely due to its ultra-processed nature and higher sodium content. While it offers some protein and vegetables, it is not considered a primary source of essential nutrients for a balanced diet. It can be part of an occasional meal, but a focus on whole, minimally processed foods is generally recommended.
How does CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup compare to a homemade soup?
Compared to a homemade beef and vegetable soup, CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup is significantly more processed. A homemade version would typically use fewer additives, less sodium, and provide a higher concentration of nutrients from fresh ingredients. The NOVA 4 classification indicates a substantial difference in processing level.
What is 'modified cornstarch' and why is it in this soup?
Modified cornstarch is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including this soup. It helps achieve the desired texture and consistency, preventing separation of ingredients. While generally recognized as safe, its presence contributes to the product's ultra-processed status.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The serving size is listed as 'PER SERVING' on the label. Given the sodium content of 350.83mg per 100g, consuming an entire can would result in a significant intake of sodium. For those monitoring sodium, half a can might be a more appropriate portion, especially if other high-sodium foods are consumed in the same day.
Can this soup be part of a weight management plan?
With 45 calories per 100g, this soup is relatively low in calories. However, its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature mean it should be consumed mindfully within a weight management plan. Focusing on nutrient-dense, whole foods is generally more effective for sustained weight management.
How does this soup compare to other canned soups like Progresso?
Like many canned soups, CAMPBELL'S Chunky Beef With Country Vegetables Soup shares similarities with products from brands like Progresso in terms of convenience and processing. Both often fall into the ultra-processed category and can be high in sodium. Specific nutritional profiles will vary by SKU, so checking individual labels is important for direct comparison.