CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE scores 47/100 (Decent). Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE has a FoodScore of 47/100.
It provides a notable amount of Vitamin A (53% DV) and Vitamin C (21% DV) per 100g.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
This sauce contains 301.59mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount.
A typical serving of 1/4 cup contributes to your daily vegetable intake.
Scores +0 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.21g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
1.59g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
301.59mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.2g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE achieved a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is positively influenced by its micronutrient content, specifically providing 53% DV for Vitamin A and 21% DV for Vitamin C per 100g. It also offers 3.21g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile. However, the product's classification as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, resulted in a significant penalty of 10 points. Ingredients such as modified food starch (corn), high fructose corn syrup, and natural flavor are indicative of its ultra-processed nature. While the product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, the presence of high fructose corn syrup suggests that while it may not be 'added sugar' by definition in this specific formulation, it is a caloric sweetener. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent baseline, this pizza sauce provides some beneficial vitamins but is more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in contadina deluxe pizza sauce, deluxe actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Key Vitamins
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE is a good source of both Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Per 100g, it provides 53% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A and 21% for Vitamin C. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production. Incorporating this sauce can help contribute to your daily intake of these essential micronutrients, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This pizza sauce contains 3.21g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is known to support digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness, which may aid in weight management. While not a primary fiber source, the fiber content in CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE can add to the total daily fiber intake, particularly when consumed as part of a meal rich in vegetables and whole grains. The carrot fiber listed in the ingredients contributes to this content.
Versatile Vegetable Component
As a tomato-based product, this sauce can serve as a convenient way to include a vegetable component in meals. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant. While processing can affect nutrient availability, tomato products generally retain beneficial compounds. Using this sauce on pizza, in pasta dishes, or as a base for other recipes can help increase the overall vegetable content of a meal, especially for those who struggle to meet daily vegetable recommendations.
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE scores 47/100 (Decent). Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
How to eat it
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE is typically used as a base for homemade pizzas, calzones, or as an ingredient in various Italian-inspired dishes. A common serving size is 1/4 cup, which provides a flavorful foundation for meals. It is a convenient pantry staple for quick meal preparation.
Use this sauce as a base for homemade pizzas, pairing it with whole-wheat crusts and plenty of fresh vegetables to enhance the nutritional value.
Incorporate the sauce into pasta dishes, ensuring to balance the meal with lean protein sources like chicken or beans and additional non-starchy vegetables.
Be mindful of the sodium content; when using this sauce, consider reducing other high-sodium ingredients in your meal to manage overall intake.
Store any unused sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and safety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains an Italian Style Cheese Blend, which includes pasteurized part skim cow's milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which generally means it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as modified food starch (corn) and xanthan gum. While these ingredients are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of ultra-processed foods. The sodium content is moderate, so those monitoring sodium intake should consider this when planning meals.
CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers some beneficial micronutrients like Vitamin A and C, and a moderate amount of fiber. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) impacts its overall score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE compare to other pizza sauces?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this sauce provides similar vitamin benefits but is more processed. When looking at other branded pizza sauces, like Ragu Pizza Sauce, the nutritional profile can vary, especially concerning sodium levels and the presence of added sugars. Always check the nutrition facts panel and ingredient list for specific comparisons.
What is 'high fructose corn syrup' doing in this pizza sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener used in many processed foods. In this CONTADINA pizza sauce, it contributes to the overall flavor profile. While the product declares 0g of added sugar per 100g, the presence of high fructose corn syrup means it still contributes to the total carbohydrate and calorie count.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza sauce?
The recommended serving size for CONTADINA DELUXE PIZZA SAUCE, DELUXE is 1/4 cup. This portion provides a specific amount of calories, sodium, and vitamins. Sticking to this serving size helps manage the intake of ingredients like sodium and ensures you are consuming a balanced amount within your meal.
Can I use this sauce for more than just pizza?
Yes, this pizza sauce is versatile and can be used in various dishes beyond pizza. It works well as a base for pasta sauces, a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as an ingredient in casseroles and stews. Its tomato and spice profile makes it suitable for many Italian-inspired recipes.