CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup scores 39/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite a bonus for Vitamin A.
This product has a FoodScore of 39/100, classifying it as Poor.
It is an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), contributing to a -10 penalty.
A serving contains 708.33mg of sodium per 100g, a significant nutritional concern.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this SKU is considerably higher in sodium and lower in whole ingredients.
This condensed soup can be a convenient base for recipes, but consider its nutritional profile.
Scores -8 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
0.83g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
708.33mg
31% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (708.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup receives a FoodScore of 39/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant 10-point penalty. Additionally, the product contains a high amount of sodium, with 708.33mg per 100g, resulting in a 3-point penalty. While the ingredient list includes celery, it also features modified food starch, wheat flour, and vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or soybean) as primary components after water, indicating a formulation far removed from whole foods. CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY has formulated this product to be shelf-stable and convenient, but this comes at the cost of processing and added sodium. The product does receive a small bonus of 2 points for its Vitamin A content (46% DV per 100g). In comparison to a home-cooked cream of celery soup made with whole ingredients, this branded product would typically contain more sodium and less naturally occurring fiber and micronutrients beyond Vitamin A.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell soup condensed cream of celery soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This product provides 46% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, which is a notable contribution to daily intake. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source of many other micronutrients, the presence of Vitamin A offers a specific nutritional benefit. Consumers can incorporate this into a meal to help meet their daily Vitamin A requirements, especially when other dietary sources might be limited.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup offers significant convenience for meal preparation. As a condensed soup, it can be quickly prepared by adding water or milk, or used as a base in various recipes such as casseroles and sauces. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking easy additions to family meals. Its long shelf-life also contributes to its practicality as a pantry staple, reducing the need for frequent grocery trips.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
Beyond being a standalone soup, this product functions as a versatile culinary ingredient. Its creamy texture and savory flavor profile make it suitable for thickening sauces, enriching gravies, and binding ingredients in baked dishes. This versatility allows it to be integrated into a wide range of recipes, from traditional comfort foods to more inventive culinary creations. Using it as a base can help achieve a desired consistency and flavor with minimal effort in the kitchen.
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup scores 39/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite a bonus for Vitamin A.
How to eat it
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup is typically consumed as a soup base or as an ingredient in recipes. A common portion is 1/2 cup (120 mL) of condensed soup, which is then diluted. It's often used in casseroles, sauces, and other baked dishes, providing a creamy texture and savory flavor.
To reduce sodium intake, consider diluting the soup with low-sodium broth or water instead of milk, and avoid adding extra salt to the dish.
Pair this soup with fresh or frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Use this condensed soup as a base for casseroles, but balance it with lean protein sources such as chicken or turkey, and whole grains.
For a more balanced meal, serve alongside a large green salad with a light vinaigrette to add fresh produce and reduce overall meal density.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG) may be a concern for individuals sensitive to it, although it is generally recognized as safe. Allergens declared on the label include milk and wheat, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to wheat flour. Those with dairy allergies should also exercise caution. The high sodium content (708.33mg per 100g) is a significant factor, particularly for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Children's intake should also be monitored due to the sodium level.
Is CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup healthy?
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some Vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is not considered a health-promoting food for regular consumption, especially when compared to less processed alternatives.
How does CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup compare to a homemade cream of celery soup?
Compared to a homemade cream of celery soup, CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup is typically much higher in sodium and contains modified food starch and vegetable oils as primary ingredients. A homemade version would likely use fresh celery, whole milk or cream, and control over salt, offering a more nutrient-dense profile with less processing.
What is the role of 'modified food starch' in this soup?
Modified food starch is used in CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup primarily as a thickening agent and stabilizer. It helps achieve the desired creamy texture and prevents separation of ingredients, contributing to the product's shelf stability and consistency when prepared. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is 1/2 cup (120 mL) of condensed soup. When diluted, this yields a larger volume. Given the high sodium content, it is advisable to adhere to the recommended serving size or even use smaller amounts if incorporating it into a larger recipe to manage overall sodium intake.
Can I use this soup in a vegetarian diet?
CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup contains cream (milk), making it unsuitable for a strict vegan diet. However, it can be consumed by lacto-ovo vegetarians. For those seeking a plant-based alternative, brands like Amy's Kitchen offer vegetarian and vegan cream of mushroom or celery soups.
Does this soup contain any added sugar?
According to the nutrition facts, CAMPBELL SOUP Condensed Cream Of Celery Soup contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This means that no sugars have been intentionally added during processing, which is a positive aspect compared to many other processed foods.