CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce receives a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 40/100 (Poor) due to high sodium and ultra-processing.
Contains 566.67mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Provides some Vitamin A (74% DV per 100g) and Vitamin C (9% DV per 100g).
This product is a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, similar to many other branded taco sauces.
Use in moderation to manage sodium intake, especially when paired with other salty foods.
Scores +8 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
566.67mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (566.7mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce earns a FoodScore of 40/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely influenced by its high sodium content, which is 566.67mg per 100g, leading to a significant penalty. The product also receives a substantial penalty for being classified as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food, indicating a formulation that often includes ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. While the ingredient list includes whole foods like tomatoes and onions, the presence of items such as xanthan gum and "natural flavoring" contributes to its ultra-processed classification. On the positive side, the sauce receives a small bonus for its contribution of Vitamin A (74% DV per 100g). Compared to a generic unbranded taco sauce, CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce's nutritional profile is similar, with comparable sodium levels and processing characteristics.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in chi-chi's, medium taco sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This taco sauce provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 74% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports several bodily functions. It plays a role in maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low light, and is important for immune function. Including foods with Vitamin A can contribute to overall dietary completeness, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods in a meal.
Contribution of Vitamin C
CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce offers 9% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports the immune system. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is vital for skin, cartilage, and bone health. While not a primary source, this contribution can add to your daily intake of this important vitamin.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetable Intake
Using CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce can be a way to add flavor to meals, potentially encouraging the consumption of more vegetables. For individuals who find plain vegetables unappealing, a flavorful condiment like this can make them more palatable. This can be a practical strategy to increase overall vegetable intake, which is a key recommendation of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, provided that portion sizes are managed to control sodium.
CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce receives a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Taco sauce is typically used as a condiment to add flavor and moisture to Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, burritos, and nachos. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can be easily exceeded if not mindful. It's often added at the table, allowing individuals to customize their spice and flavor preferences.
Use this taco sauce to flavor lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish, enhancing taste without adding significant fat.
Combine with fresh salsa or diced avocado to dilute the sodium content while adding beneficial fats and micronutrients.
Measure your portion of CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce to stay within recommended sodium limits, especially if consuming multiple servings of salty foods.
Pair with a meal rich in vegetables and fiber to create a more nutritionally balanced plate.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce is its high sodium content. With 566.67mg per 100g, regular or excessive consumption could contribute significantly to exceeding daily sodium recommendations, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. The product also contains citric acid and xanthan gum, which are common food additives. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals with sensitivities may experience mild digestive discomfort from xanthan gum. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this product.
CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce receives a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor). While it provides some Vitamin A and C, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce compare to other taco sauces?
Compared to many other branded taco sauces, such as Old El Paso Taco Sauce, CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high sodium and being ultra-processed. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific brands to compare sodium levels and ingredient lists.
What is 'natural flavoring' in the ingredient list?
Natural flavoring refers to substances derived from a spice, fruit or vegetable, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional. It contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this taco sauce?
A reasonable portion size for CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce is 2 tablespoons (30g), as indicated on the nutrition label. This portion provides about 170mg of sodium. Being mindful of this serving size can help manage your overall sodium intake for the day.
Can I use this taco sauce if I am watching my sugar intake?
Yes, CHI-CHI'S Medium Taco Sauce contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for individuals who are monitoring their added sugar consumption. However, its high sodium content should still be considered.