COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF STOCK, ONIONS, TOMATOES, HERBS & SEASONINGS SAUCE, HEARTY BEEF
COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF STOCK, ONIONS, TOMATOES, HERBS & SEASONINGS SAUCE scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
COLLEGE INN Hearty Beef Sauce has a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
The product contains 750mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
This sauce offers 3.3g of fiber per 100g, a notable positive.
Use sparingly to manage sodium intake, especially when adding to other dishes.
Scores -6 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
750mg
33% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
−
What holds it back
Sodium (750mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF STOCK, ONIONS, TOMATOES, HERBS & SEASONINGS SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the poor category. The primary factor driving this score is its high sodium content, at 750mg per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -3 points. For context, the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300mg per day for most adults. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which results in a -10 point penalty. This classification reflects the presence of ingredients like yeast extract, natural flavors, and xanthan gum, which are typical of highly processed formulations. On the positive side, the sauce does provide 3.3g of fiber per 100g, earning a +3 bonus. However, it lacks significant amounts of beneficial micronutrients, with 0% DV for iron, vitamin D, B12, folate, vitamin C, and vitamin A. Compared to a home-cooked beef stock or sauce made from whole ingredients, this COLLEGE INN product contains a much higher sodium level and a more extensive list of processed components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in college inn hearty beef stock, onions, tomatoes, herbs & seasonings sauce, hearty beef actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Dietary Fiber
This COLLEGE INN sauce provides 3.3g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While not a primary source of fiber, incorporating this sauce can add a small amount to meals that might otherwise be low in fiber. For example, when used in a stew with vegetables and legumes, it can enhance the overall fiber content of the dish.
Low in Calories and Saturated Fat
With only 33 calories per 100g and 0g of saturated fat, this sauce can be a suitable option for those monitoring their caloric and saturated fat intake. Choosing foods low in saturated fat is beneficial for cardiovascular health, as it helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Its low-calorie density means it can add flavor to meals without significantly increasing the overall energy content, which can be useful for weight management when used in appropriate portions.
Convenient Flavor Base
This sauce offers a convenient way to add a savory, beefy flavor profile to various dishes without extensive preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking from scratch, it can serve as a quick base for soups, stews, or casseroles. Its ready-to-use format means less time spent chopping and simmering, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional impact, especially regarding sodium, when relying on convenience products.
COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF STOCK, ONIONS, TOMATOES, HERBS & SEASONINGS SAUCE scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF SAUCE is typically used as a base or flavor enhancer in savory dishes. It's often incorporated into stews, pot roasts, gravies, or as a liquid for braising meats and vegetables. A common portion might be 1/4 cup, as indicated on the label.
To mitigate the high sodium content, dilute the sauce with water or unsalted broth when using it as a base for soups or stews.
Pair this sauce with a generous amount of fresh, non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach to boost micronutrient and fiber intake.
Use this sauce as a flavor component for marinades, but consider reducing or eliminating added salt in the rest of the recipe to control overall sodium.
When making gravy, combine this sauce with a homemade, low-sodium beef broth to achieve a richer flavor with less added salt.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for COLLEGE INN HEARTY BEEF STOCK, ONIONS, TOMATOES, HERBS & SEASONINGS SAUCE is its high sodium content. Individuals on sodium-restricted diets, such as those with hypertension or kidney disease, should consume this product with extreme moderation or seek lower-sodium alternatives. While the ingredient list includes natural flavors, the specific components are not detailed, which is common in processed foods. The product does not declare major allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or eggs, but consumers with severe allergies should always verify manufacturing practices if cross-contamination is a concern. Overall, for most healthy individuals, the main consideration is managing total daily sodium intake.
COLLEGE INN Hearty Beef Sauce has a FoodScore of 40/100, which is considered poor. Its primary nutritional drawback is its high sodium content (750mg per 100g). While it offers some fiber, it is an ultra-processed food and lacks significant amounts of many essential micronutrients. It can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation and balanced with low-sodium, whole foods.
How does COLLEGE INN Hearty Beef Sauce compare to homemade beef stock?
Compared to homemade beef stock, COLLEGE INN Hearty Beef Sauce is significantly higher in sodium and contains a longer list of processed ingredients like yeast extract and natural flavors. Homemade stock typically allows for complete control over sodium levels and contains only whole ingredients. While the COLLEGE INN product offers convenience, homemade versions generally provide a more favorable nutritional profile.
What is 'natural flavors' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavors' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. While they originate from natural sources, they are often highly processed and can contain a variety of undisclosed components. In this COLLEGE INN sauce, natural flavors contribute to the overall taste profile but do not add significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
The declared serving size for COLLEGE INN Hearty Beef Sauce is 1/4 cup. Given its high sodium content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even use less, especially if you are combining it with other salty ingredients. Consider diluting it or using it as a flavor accent rather than a primary liquid component to manage your sodium intake effectively.
Can this sauce be used for a low-sodium diet?
No, this sauce is not suitable for a low-sodium diet due to its 750mg of sodium per 100g. For individuals needing to restrict sodium, it would be better to opt for explicitly labeled low-sodium broths or stocks, such as those from Swanson or Pacific Foods, or to make a homemade version without added salt. Always check the nutrition label for sodium content when managing dietary restrictions.