CLASSICO TRADITIONAL PIZZA SAUCE, TRADITIONAL scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its significant added sugar and sodium content, despite providing some beneficial vitamins.
This CLASSICO pizza sauce has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides beneficial Vitamin A (37% DV) and Vitamin C (22% DV) per 100g serving.
A primary concern is the high sodium content at 533.33mg per 100g.
Compared to a generic whole-grain baseline, this product is significantly more processed (NOVA 3).
Use in moderation to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.7g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.83g
12% of Daily Value
Sodium
533.33mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.7g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.8g)-5
Sodium (533.3mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 43
CLASSICO TRADITIONAL PIZZA SAUCE, TRADITIONAL receives a FoodScore of 43/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by penalties for its formulation. The product contains 5.83g of added sugar per 100g, contributing a significant penalty. Additionally, the sodium content is high at 533.33mg per 100g, which also incurs a penalty. As a NOVA class 3 product, it is considered processed, leading to another penalty. On the positive side, the sauce does offer some nutritional benefits. It receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 1.7g per 100g. Furthermore, it is a source of key micronutrients, specifically Vitamin A (37% DV) and Vitamin C (22% DV) per 100g, which collectively add points to its score. The presence of tomato puree and diced tomatoes contributes to these vitamin levels. However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties from added sugar, sodium, and its processed nature. When compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this pizza sauce presents a less favorable nutritional profile due to its processing and higher levels of added sugar and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in classico traditional pizza sauce, traditional actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This CLASSICO pizza sauce is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 37% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. The tomato-based ingredients like tomato puree and diced tomatoes are natural contributors to this vitamin content. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can help meet daily requirements for these vital bodily functions.
Provides Vitamin C
The product offers 22% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g, making it a contributor to your daily Vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that is vital for immune system support, collagen synthesis for skin health, and iron absorption. The natural acidity and nutrient profile of tomatoes are responsible for the Vitamin C present in this sauce. Incorporating sources of Vitamin C into your diet helps protect cells from damage and supports overall health.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This pizza sauce provides 1.7g of fiber per 100g, which contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and support a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content primarily comes from the tomato solids present in the sauce. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can contribute to the recommended daily intake when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
CLASSICO TRADITIONAL PIZZA SAUCE, TRADITIONAL scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its significant added sugar and sodium content, despite providing some beneficial vitamins.
How to eat it
Pizza sauce is typically used as a base for homemade or store-bought pizza, often spread thinly over dough. A common serving size is 1/4 cup, which is 60g. It can also be used in other Italian-inspired dishes like pasta bakes or as a dipping sauce. Be mindful of portion sizes due to the added sugar and sodium content.
Pair with a whole-wheat pizza crust and plenty of vegetables to enhance fiber and nutrient intake.
Consider diluting with plain crushed tomatoes or unsalted tomato puree to reduce overall sodium and added sugar per serving.
Use as a base for homemade minestrone or vegetable soup, allowing the tomato flavor to shine while controlling other ingredients.
Measure your serving (1/4 cup) to manage the intake of added sugar and sodium, especially if you consume pizza frequently.
Things to keep in mind
This CLASSICO pizza sauce contains added sugar (listed as 'SUGAR') and a notable amount of sodium. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, or those on a sodium-restricted diet for blood pressure management, should be mindful of portion sizes. The ingredient list does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. However, always check the most current product label for updated allergen information. The product is generally safe for consumption by most healthy adults when consumed in moderation, but its NOVA class 3 classification indicates it is a processed food.
Is CLASSICO TRADITIONAL PIZZA SAUCE, TRADITIONAL healthy?
This CLASSICO pizza sauce has a FoodScore of 43/100, which is considered 'Poor.' While it offers some beneficial vitamins like A and C from its tomato base, it contains significant amounts of added sugar and sodium. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense ingredients.
How does CLASSICO compare to other pizza sauces?
Compared to some other pizza sauces, such as Ragu Old World Style Traditional Sauce, CLASSICO TRADITIONAL PIZZA SAUCE, TRADITIONAL may have similar or slightly different nutritional profiles regarding added sugar and sodium. Many branded pizza sauces in the category are NOVA class 3 (processed). Always check the nutrition facts panel of specific brands for direct comparison, focusing on added sugar, sodium, and fiber content.
What is 'TOMATO PUREE' in the ingredient list?
Tomato puree is a concentrated tomato product made by cooking and straining tomatoes. In this CLASSICO sauce, it's listed as 'TOMATO PUREE (WATER, TOMATO PASTE),' indicating it's made from rehydrated tomato paste. It serves as the primary base for the sauce, contributing to its texture and flavor, as well as its Vitamin A and C content.
How much CLASSICO pizza sauce can I eat daily?
Due to the added sugar (5.83g) and sodium (533.33mg) per 100g, it's advisable to consume this pizza sauce in moderation. A typical serving is 1/4 cup (60g). If you are mindful of your daily intake of added sugars and sodium, using it sparingly or as an occasional condiment is a reasonable approach.
Can I use this sauce for more than just pizza?
Yes, this CLASSICO pizza sauce is versatile. You can use it as a base for pasta dishes, in lasagna, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or even as a flavorful addition to soups and stews. Its traditional flavor profile makes it suitable for various Italian-inspired recipes, but remember to account for its nutritional content in your overall meal.