GARDEN FRESH GOURMET CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP WITH ROASTED CHILES
GARDEN FRESH GOURMET Chicken Tortilla Soup with Roasted Chiles scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing some notable micronutrients like Vitamin A.
This soup has a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a Poor nutritional rating.
It provides a significant amount of Vitamin A, contributing 45% DV per 100g.
A key concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product has a higher sodium content at 282.04mg per 100g.
Consider this soup as an occasional convenience food rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -5 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
3.27g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
282.04mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
GARDEN FRESH GOURMET Chicken Tortilla Soup with Roasted Chiles receives a FoodScore of 42/100, placing it in the Poor category. A primary factor contributing to this score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This classification often reflects a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients and processes, which can detract from overall nutritional quality. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and a moderate 1.22g of total fat per 100g, its fiber content is low at 0.8g per 100g. The sodium level is 282.04mg per 100g, which is a notable amount for a single serving. On the positive side, it offers a significant 45% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. However, other essential micronutrients like potassium, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, and Folate are present in negligible amounts. The inclusion of ingredients like modified food starch and cultured dextrose further supports its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this soup typically contains more sodium and less fiber, impacting its overall nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in garden fresh gourmet chicken tortilla soup with roasted chiles actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This GARDEN FRESH GOURMET soup is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 45% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of ingredients like carrots and roasted peppers likely contributes to this nutrient content. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can support overall well-being, especially when part of a varied diet.
Provides Protein for Satiety
With 3.27g of protein per 100g, this soup contributes to your daily protein intake. Protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair, and it plays a role in satiety, helping you feel full. The chicken meat in the soup is the primary source of this protein. While not a high-protein food, it can contribute to the protein content of a meal, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods.
Convenient Meal Option
This soup offers a convenient and quick meal solution, particularly for busy individuals. Its ready-to-heat format means minimal preparation time, making it a practical option when time is limited. While convenience foods should be balanced with whole, unprocessed options, having a readily available meal can help prevent skipping meals or opting for less nutritious fast food choices.
GARDEN FRESH GOURMET Chicken Tortilla Soup with Roasted Chiles scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing some notable micronutrients like Vitamin A.
How to eat it
Chicken tortilla soup is commonly consumed as a quick lunch or a light dinner. A typical serving is one cup, which can be eaten on its own or as part of a larger meal. It's often enjoyed for its comforting and savory flavor profile.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this soup with a side salad rich in dark leafy greens and a light vinaigrette.
Increase the fiber and protein content by adding canned black beans or chickpeas (rinsed) and extra shredded chicken.
Control sodium intake by diluting the soup with a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or water before heating.
Serve with a small portion of whole-grain crackers or a slice of whole-wheat bread to add complex carbohydrates.
Consider this soup as an occasional meal and prioritize homemade, less processed soups for regular consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary sensitivities should review the ingredient list carefully. The soup contains corn tortilla chip and white corn masa, which are corn-based ingredients. While the product does not explicitly declare major allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing. The sodium content of 282.04mg per 100g is moderate, but those monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be mindful of portion sizes, as a full can would contain significantly more. The modified food starch is generally recognized as safe but can be a concern for some individuals with specific digestive sensitivities.
Is GARDEN FRESH GOURMET Chicken Tortilla Soup with Roasted Chiles healthy?
GARDEN FRESH GOURMET Chicken Tortilla Soup with Roasted Chiles has a FoodScore of 42/100, rated as Poor. While it provides Vitamin A and some protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and moderate sodium content suggest it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does GARDEN FRESH GOURMET compare to other chicken tortilla soups?
Compared to many homemade chicken tortilla soups, GARDEN FRESH GOURMET will likely contain more processed ingredients and higher sodium levels. For example, a homemade soup allows for control over salt and the freshness of ingredients. When compared to other canned soups like Campbell's Chunky Chicken Tortilla Soup, nutritional profiles can vary, so checking the specific label is always recommended.
What is 'modified food starch' in this soup?
Modified food starch is an ingredient used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including this soup. It helps give the soup its desired texture and consistency. While generally safe, it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a recommended portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage calorie and sodium intake. If consuming more than one cup, be aware that the nutritional values, especially sodium, will increase proportionally.
Can I add vegetables to this soup to make it more nutritious?
Yes, adding extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can significantly boost the fiber and micronutrient content of the soup. This is an excellent way to enhance its nutritional value without adding much preparation time.