CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA, MILD VERDE scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This CHI-CHI'S salsa has a FoodScore of 39/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A 100g serving contains 466.67mg of sodium, contributing to a penalty.
This product offers 0g of protein, fiber, total fat, and added sugar per 100g.
Use in moderation to manage overall sodium intake in your diet.
Scores +7 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
466.67mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (466.7mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA, MILD VERDE receives a FoodScore of 39 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), which incurs a significant penalty of 10 points. Additionally, the product's sodium content, at 466.67mg per 100g, contributes a 1-point penalty. While the product contains 0g of protein, fiber, total fat, and added sugar per 100g, which are positive attributes, these do not offset the penalties. The ingredient list includes garlic (contains high fructose corn syrup), which, while not contributing to added sugar in this specific product's nutritional panel, highlights the presence of highly refined ingredients. Compared to a generic unbranded verde salsa, CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA's nutritional profile is similar, with both typically being moderate in calories and lacking significant macronutrient contributions, but often containing preservatives and higher sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in chi-chi's mild verde salsa, mild verde actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Low-Calorie Flavor Enhancer
CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA provides a way to add flavor to meals with minimal caloric impact. At just 33 calories per 100g, it can be used to season dishes without significantly increasing the overall energy content of your meal. This can be beneficial for individuals managing their calorie intake while still seeking to enjoy flavorful foods. It can be a useful addition to bland dishes like plain chicken or vegetables.
Free from Added Sugars
This salsa is notable for containing 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, CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA can be a suitable condiment choice. This makes it a better option compared to many other sauces or dressings that often contain significant amounts of added sweeteners.
Versatile Culinary Use
CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA offers versatility in culinary applications, making it easy to incorporate into various meals. Its mild flavor profile allows it to complement a wide range of dishes, from Mexican-inspired cuisine to grilled meats or as a topping for eggs. This adaptability can help individuals diversify their meals and make healthy eating more engaging, provided sodium intake is monitored.
CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA, MILD VERDE scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
Salsa is commonly used as a condiment or dip in American diets, often paired with chips, tacos, burritos, or grilled meats. A typical serving is 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to consume larger quantities, which can increase sodium intake. This CHI-CHI'S salsa can add flavor without significant calories.
Use this salsa as a flavorful topping for lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish to enhance taste without adding extra fat.
Incorporate into homemade burritos or bowls with plenty of vegetables and whole grains to create a balanced meal.
Measure your portion of salsa, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake, as it can quickly accumulate.
Combine with plain Greek yogurt to create a lower-sodium, creamy dip for vegetables or whole-wheat crackers.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA is its sodium content, at 466.67mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes sodium benzoate as a preservative, which is generally recognized as safe but may be a concern for some consumers sensitive to food additives. While the product is low in calories and free from added sugars, its classification as an ultra-processed food suggests a formulation that has undergone significant industrial processing. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this specific product.
CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA has a FoodScore of 39/100, rated as Poor. While it is low in calories and has no added sugar, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are significant factors in its lower score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, especially considering its sodium levels.
How does CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA compare to other salsas?
Compared to a generic unbranded verde salsa, CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA has a similar nutritional profile, often sharing the same challenges with sodium and processing. When compared to a fresh, homemade salsa, this product would typically have a higher sodium content and contain preservatives like sodium benzoate, which are absent in fresh versions. Brands like Pace or Herdez offer similar processed salsa options.
What does 'garlic (contains high fructose corn syrup)' mean in the ingredient list?
This indicates that the garlic ingredient used in CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA was processed or prepared with high fructose corn syrup. While the overall product declares 0g of added sugar, this specific ingredient highlights the presence of a refined sweetener in one of the components. It's important to note that the amount contributed by the garlic itself is likely very small.
What is a reasonable portion size for this salsa?
The declared serving size is 2 tablespoons (about 30g). Given the sodium content of 466.67mg per 100g, a 2-tablespoon serving would contain approximately 140mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion size helps manage your daily sodium intake, especially if you consume other processed foods throughout the day.
Can I use this salsa if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
Yes, CHI-CHI'S MILD VERDE SALSA contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, making it a suitable option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. However, always consider the overall nutritional profile, particularly the sodium content, when incorporating it into your diet.