CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE scores 39/100 (Poor) due primarily to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This pizza sauce has a FoodScore of 39/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 619.05mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
CONTADINA pizza sauce provides 53% DV of Vitamin A per 100g serving.
Consider using smaller portions to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Scores -8 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.59g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
619.05mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.3g)-1
Sodium (619.0mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is heavily influenced by several factors. The product is penalized for its added sugar content, with 3.33g per 100g, and significantly for its high sodium level of 619.05mg per 100g. A major detractor is its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a substantial penalty. While it does receive a bonus for its Vitamin A content (53% DV), this is not enough to offset the penalties. The presence of high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener contributes to the added sugar penalty. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and fewer added sugars and sodium, this CONTADINA product falls short in several key nutritional areas.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in contadina roma style tomatoes pizza sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, offering 53% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While this product is not a primary source of all nutrients, its contribution of Vitamin A can help meet daily requirements when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Convenient Meal Component
This pizza sauce offers convenience for meal preparation, allowing for quick assembly of dishes like homemade pizza or pasta. Its ready-to-use format can help reduce cooking time, which may encourage more home-cooked meals compared to relying on takeout. While it's important to be mindful of its nutritional profile, its ease of use can support efforts to prepare meals at home.
Flavor Base for Vegetables
The robust flavor of CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE can serve as an appealing base for incorporating more vegetables into meals. Using it with a variety of fresh vegetables on pizza or in a pasta sauce can enhance the palatability of nutrient-dense ingredients. This can be a practical strategy for increasing vegetable intake, especially for individuals who find plain vegetables less appealing.
CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE scores 39/100 (Poor) due primarily to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE is typically used as a base for homemade pizzas or as an ingredient in pasta dishes. A common serving size is 0.25 cup, which is a relatively small portion. Be mindful of the sodium and added sugar content when incorporating it into your diet.
To reduce overall sodium, pair this sauce with low-sodium crusts and toppings like fresh vegetables and lean proteins.
Consider diluting the sauce with plain crushed tomatoes or a low-sodium tomato puree to reduce the concentration of added sugar and sodium.
Use this sauce as a flavor enhancer for vegetable-heavy dishes, such as a base for baked eggplant or zucchini, to boost nutrient density.
Portion control is key; measure out the 0.25 cup serving size to manage intake of added sugars and sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener, which contributes to its added sugar content. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should be aware of this. The high sodium content (619.05mg per 100g) is a significant factor, and those managing blood pressure or on sodium-restricted diets should consume this product in moderation or seek lower-sodium alternatives. The ingredient list also includes a four cheese blend and whey, indicating the presence of dairy, which is an allergen for some individuals. Modified corn starch and soybean oil are also present, which may be relevant for those with specific dietary sensitivities.
Is CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE healthy?
CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE scores 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category on FoodScore. This is largely due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's best consumed in moderation.
How does CONTADINA pizza sauce compare to other brands?
Compared to some other pizza sauces, such as Rao's Homemade Pizza Sauce, CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE has a higher added sugar content and is classified as ultra-processed. Many premium brands often prioritize simpler ingredient lists and lower sodium, though nutritional profiles can vary widely across the category.
What is 'high fructose corn syrup' and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE to provide sweetness and enhance flavor. Its presence contributes to the product's added sugar content, which is a factor in its FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza sauce?
The declared serving size for CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE is 0.25 cup. Sticking to this portion size is important to manage intake of sodium and added sugars. Using a measuring cup can help ensure you are consuming a consistent amount.
Can I use this sauce for more than just pizza?
Yes, CONTADINA ROMA STYLE TOMATOES PIZZA SAUCE can be used in various dishes beyond pizza. It can serve as a base for pasta sauces, a topping for baked chicken or meatballs, or a flavoring for vegetable bakes. However, always consider the overall nutritional impact on your meal.