Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
CHI-CHI'S MEDIUM THICK & CHUNKY SALSA receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely driven by its high sodium content, which incurs a significant penalty. Per 100g, this salsa contains 500mg of sodium, contributing substantially to daily intake, especially when consumed in larger portions or frequently. The product also receives a penalty for being a NOVA class 3 processed food, indicating it has undergone various processing steps and contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as 'natural flavor' and 'citric acid'. While it contains no added sugar, total fat, or protein, and is low in calories, the lack of beneficial nutrients like fiber, potassium, and calcium means it doesn't accrue any bonus points. Compared to a generic unbranded salsa, this specific SKU's sodium level is a primary differentiator, pushing its score lower than what might be expected for a simple tomato-based condiment.
What the nutrients in chi-chi's medium thick & chunky salsa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
CHI-CHI'S MEDIUM THICK & CHUNKY SALSA is a very low-calorie condiment, providing only 33 calories per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their caloric intake, as it can add flavor to meals without significantly increasing the energy density. When used in appropriate portions, it can be a way to enhance the palatability of dishes like grilled chicken or vegetables without contributing excess calories from fat or sugar.
This salsa contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, which aligns with dietary recommendations to limit intake of added sugars. For consumers looking to reduce their sugar consumption, this product can be a favorable choice compared to other condiments that often contain significant amounts of added sweeteners. The sweetness, if any, comes solely from the natural sugars present in the 'TOMATOES' and 'CONCENTRATED CRUSHED TOMATOES'.
While not a primary source, CHI-CHI'S MEDIUM THICK & CHUNKY SALSA does provide a small amount of Vitamin C, contributing 4% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. Although this amount is modest, it can contribute to your daily intake when consumed as part of a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Salsa is commonly used as a dip for tortilla chips, a topping for tacos, burritos, and eggs, or as an ingredient in various Mexican-inspired dishes. A typical serving size is 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to consume more, especially when dipping.
The primary caution for CHI-CHI'S MEDIUM THICK & CHUNKY SALSA is its high sodium content. With 500mg of sodium per 100g, regular or large consumption could contribute significantly to exceeding daily sodium recommendations, which is a concern for individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient list includes 'JALAPENO PEPPERS (CONTAINS VINEGAR)' and 'ONIONS', which might be irritants for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or conditions like IBS. While the product contains 'NATURAL FLAVOR', the specific components are not disclosed, which is a common practice but can be a consideration for those with specific sensitivities.