DEL MONTE, SPAGHETTI SAUCE, FILIPINO STYLE, FILIPINO STYLE
DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, receives a FoodScore of 12/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and ultra-processed nature.
This DEL MONTE sauce has a FoodScore of 12/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
A single serving contains 9.52g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 584mg of sodium per 100g, this product is a considerable source of dietary sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, this sauce is an ultra-processed food, offering limited nutritional density.
Use sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary component of a meal.
Scores -35 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.8g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
9.52g
19% of Daily Value
Sodium
584mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (9.5g)-11
Sodium (584mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 12
DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, scores 12 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by several nutritional factors. A significant penalty of -11 points is incurred due to its high added sugar content, which stands at 9.52g per 100g. This amount is substantial for a savory product and contributes to empty calories. The product also receives a -2 penalty for its sodium content, at 584mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a single serving. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, results in a -10 point deduction. Ingredients like modified food starch, hydrolyzed soy protein, and multiple artificial colors and flavors are characteristic of ultra-processed items. An additional -15 points are deducted for empty calories, reflecting the low density of beneficial nutrients like fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. In contrast, a generic whole-grain equivalent would typically offer more fiber and complex carbohydrates with significantly less added sugar and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in del monte, spaghetti sauce, filipino style, filipino style actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Convenient Flavor Base
This DEL MONTE sauce offers a ready-to-use flavor base for Filipino-style spaghetti, which can be a time-saver for home cooks. While not nutritionally dense, its distinct flavor profile can simplify meal preparation. It can be a useful component for those seeking to recreate specific cultural dishes efficiently, without needing to prepare the sauce from scratch, fitting into a busy schedule.
Source of Lycopene from Tomato Paste
Despite its overall nutritional profile, the presence of tomato paste in this sauce provides some lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes. Lycopene is an antioxidant, and while the amount in this processed sauce may not be as high as in fresh tomatoes, it still contributes to dietary intake. This can be a minor benefit when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Low in Fat
This product is naturally low in total fat, with 0g of total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, this aspect of the sauce could be seen as a minor advantage. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional context, including the high sugar and sodium content, when evaluating its suitability for a diet.
DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, receives a FoodScore of 12/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, is typically used as a sauce for spaghetti, often paired with hot dogs or ground meat, reflecting its cultural culinary role. A common serving size is 0.5 cup, and it's often heated and mixed directly with pasta.
To improve the nutritional profile, mix this sauce with plain crushed tomatoes to dilute the added sugar and sodium.
Pair with a generous portion of lean protein and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Use a smaller portion of the sauce than typically suggested, focusing on it as a flavor accent rather than the main component of the dish.
Opt for whole-wheat spaghetti instead of refined pasta to increase fiber intake when using this sauce.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several ingredients in DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style. The product contains hydrolyzed soy protein, which includes monosodium glutamate (MSG), disodium inosinate, and disodium guanylate, all flavor enhancers that some individuals may prefer to limit. It also contains FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Red No. 40, artificial food colors that have been a subject of discussion regarding potential sensitivities in certain populations, particularly children. Individuals with dairy allergies should note the presence of 'dairy solids' and 'natural cheese flavor' in the ingredient list. The high sodium content (584mg per 100g) is a concern for those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet, and the significant added sugar content may be a consideration for individuals monitoring blood glucose levels.
Is DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 12/100, DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, is classified as an 'Avoid' food. This is primarily due to its high added sugar and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed product. While it provides a convenient flavor, it offers minimal beneficial nutrients like fiber or protein.
How does DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce compare to a generic tomato sauce?
Compared to a generic plain tomato sauce, DEL MONTE Spaghetti Sauce, Filipino Style, typically contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. For example, a standard unsweetened tomato sauce like Muir Glen Organic Diced Tomatoes would have no added sugar and much lower sodium, offering a more nutritionally favorable base.
What is 'hydrolyzed soy protein' in this sauce?
Hydrolyzed soy protein is a flavor enhancer derived from soybeans. In this DEL MONTE sauce, it's listed with ingredients like monosodium glutamate (MSG), disodium inosinate, and disodium guanylate, which are all used to boost the savory taste. It contributes to the product's ultra-processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for this spaghetti sauce?
The declared serving size is 0.5 cup. Given the high added sugar and sodium, it is advisable to use this sauce in moderation, perhaps even less than the suggested serving, especially if you are consuming other processed foods throughout the day. Consider diluting it with plain tomato products.
Are the artificial colors in this product safe?
This DEL MONTE sauce contains FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Red No. 40. These artificial colors are approved for use by the FDA, but some individuals, particularly children, may experience sensitivities. If you have concerns about artificial colors, checking ingredient labels for these specific dyes is recommended.