PoorpreparedCAMPBELL'S· 1/2 CUP (120mL) CONDENSED SOUP
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup scores 37/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
FoodScore: 37/100 (Poor) due to high sodium and ultra-processing.
Contains 725mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides minimal micronutrients, with 0% DV for most vitamins and minerals.
Consider diluting with water or unsalted broth to reduce sodium per serving.
Scores -10 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
725mg
32% 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 (725mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 37
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup receives a FoodScore of 37/100, placing it in the Poor category. The primary factors driving this low score are its high sodium content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this soup contains 725mg of sodium, which is a substantial amount and incurs a significant penalty in the FoodScore algorithm. The ingredient list reveals components such as modified food starch, monosodium glutamate, and yeast extract, which are common in ultra-processed foods and contribute to its NOVA class 4 designation, leading to a -10 point penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of trans fat, it offers minimal beneficial nutrients, with 0g of fiber and negligible amounts of vitamins and minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, CAMPBELL'S soup lacks the fiber and diverse micronutrients typically found in fresh mushrooms and other whole food components, while containing a much higher sodium level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup offers significant convenience for consumers looking for quick meal solutions. Its shelf-stable nature and ease of preparation make it a practical ingredient for various recipes, such as casseroles and sauces, when time is limited. This product can help facilitate home cooking by reducing preparation time, which can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules or limited cooking skills, allowing them to create meals that might otherwise be skipped.
Source of Energy
This soup provides 83 calories per 100g, offering a source of energy that can contribute to daily caloric needs. While not a nutrient-dense option, the calories primarily come from fats and carbohydrates, which are essential for bodily functions. For individuals needing to increase their caloric intake, or as a component of a larger meal, the energy provided can be a useful contribution to overall dietary intake.
Versatile Culinary Base
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup serves as a versatile culinary base for a wide range of dishes. Its creamy texture and savory flavor profile can enhance the palatability of other ingredients, making it easier to incorporate vegetables or lean proteins into meals. This versatility can encourage the consumption of other nutrient-rich foods when used as an accompaniment, rather than as a standalone meal.
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup scores 37/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup is typically used as an ingredient in recipes rather than a standalone soup. It's a common base for casseroles, sauces, and gravies, often diluted with water or milk. A common portion is 1/2 cup of the condensed soup, which then expands when prepared.
To reduce sodium, dilute the condensed soup with unsalted broth or water instead of milk, and avoid adding extra salt to the dish.
Enhance nutrient density by incorporating fresh or frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach into recipes using this soup.
Pair with a lean protein source such as baked chicken breast or fish to create a more balanced and filling meal.
Consider using this soup in smaller quantities as a flavor enhancer, rather than as the primary liquid base, to moderate sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup, which is 725mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney concerns, should consume this product sparingly or choose lower-sodium alternatives. The ingredient list includes wheat flour, cream (milk), and soy protein concentrate, indicating the presence of common allergens: wheat, milk, and soy. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of monosodium glutamate may be a concern for some individuals sensitive to MSG, although scientific evidence generally supports its safety for most people.
Is CAMPBELL'S Cream Of Mushroom Soup a healthy choice?
CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup scores 37/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers convenience, it is not a nutrient-dense food and provides minimal fiber or micronutrients. It is best consumed in moderation or as an ingredient in recipes where its high sodium can be balanced.
How does CAMPBELL'S Cream Of Mushroom Soup compare to a homemade cream of mushroom soup?
Compared to a homemade cream of mushroom soup made with whole ingredients, CAMPBELL'S version is significantly higher in sodium and is an ultra-processed food. A homemade soup would typically offer more fiber and a wider array of micronutrients from fresh mushrooms and other vegetables, with control over added salt and fats. For example, a home-cooked version would not contain ingredients like 'modified food starch' or 'monosodium glutamate'.
What is 'modified food starch' in this soup?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup. It helps achieve the desired creamy texture and prevents separation of ingredients. While generally recognized as safe, it is an indicator of a more processed food item.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size for CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup is 1/2 cup (120mL) of the condensed soup. When diluted as directed, this yields a larger volume. Given its high sodium content, it's advisable to consider this serving size as a component of a meal rather than a large standalone portion, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake.
Can I use this soup in a low-sodium diet?
Due to its very high sodium content (725mg per 100g), CAMPBELL'S Condensed Cream Of Mushroom Soup is not recommended for a low-sodium diet. Individuals on sodium-restricted diets should seek out specific 'low sodium' or 'no salt added' versions of cream of mushroom soup, such as those offered by brands like Healthy Request or Pacific Foods, or opt for homemade alternatives.