FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentdairyHEALTH VALLEY· 1 cup

HEALTH VALLEY, CAFE, CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO SOUP WITH MIXED VEGETABLES

HEALTH VALLEY, CAFE, CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO SOUP WITH MIXED VEGETABLES scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This HEALTH VALLEY soup receives a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • A notable strength is its provision of 23% DV of Vitamin A per 100g serving.
  • The product's NOVA class 4 designation indicates it is an ultra-processed food.
  • With 200mg of sodium per 100g, this soup contributes to daily sodium intake.
  • Consider this soup as an occasional meal component, balancing it with whole foods.
  • Scores +13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
2.08g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
200mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, Riboflavin)+6
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 46

HEALTH VALLEY, CAFE, CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO SOUP WITH MIXED VEGETABLES achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorizing it as 'Decent.' This score reflects a balance of some micronutrient contributions against its ultra-processed nature. The product receives bonuses for its micronutrient content, specifically providing 13% DV of iron and 23% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, along with some riboflavin. However, a significant penalty of -10 points is applied because it is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat per 100g, its ingredient list includes items like enriched rice flour and various flavors, which are common in ultra-processed items. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has a simpler ingredient profile, this soup is more complex in its formulation, contributing to its lower score despite some positive nutrient contributions.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in health valley, cafe, creamy chicken orzo soup with mixed vegetables actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Vitamin A

This HEALTH VALLEY soup provides 23% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Including foods that contribute to your daily Vitamin A intake can support these bodily processes. While this soup offers a notable amount, it is best consumed as part of a varied diet rich in whole food sources of Vitamin A, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, to ensure comprehensive nutrient intake.

Contribution to Iron Intake

Per 100g, this product contributes 13% DV of iron. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing fatigue and supporting overall vitality. For individuals seeking to increase their iron consumption, this soup can be a supplementary source, though it should be paired with other iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals for a more substantial contribution.

Convenient Meal Option

This soup offers a convenient and quick meal solution, particularly for busy individuals or those with limited cooking time. Its ready-to-heat format makes it accessible for a fast lunch or dinner component. While convenience is a benefit, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile and balance it with less processed foods throughout the day to ensure a diverse and nutrient-dense diet. This product can fit into a varied eating pattern when time is a constraint.

How to eat it

This HEALTH VALLEY soup is typically consumed as a quick and easy meal, often heated and eaten directly from the can or bowl. It serves as a convenient option for lunch or a light dinner, especially when time is limited. A common portion size is one cup.

To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this soup with a side salad rich in fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
For increased fiber and protein, stir in some cooked lentils or chickpeas after heating the soup.
If managing sodium intake, balance this soup with other meals throughout the day that are naturally low in sodium to maintain a healthy balance.
This soup can be a base; add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor without extra sodium.
Things to keep in mind

This HEALTH VALLEY soup contains several common allergens, including egg (from the orzo rice pasta) and soy (from the soy sauce in the chicken broth). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. While the product is not excessively high in sodium for a single serving, its 200mg per 100g means a full serving contributes to daily sodium intake, which individuals monitoring their blood pressure should be mindful of. The presence of flavors and spices in the ingredient list, while generally safe, can sometimes be a concern for individuals with specific sensitivities to broad ingredient categories. Overall, for most healthy adults without specific allergies, this product presents no unusual cautions beyond typical processed food considerations.

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Reader questions
Is HEALTH VALLEY CAFE, CREAMY CHICKEN ORZO SOUP healthy?
This HEALTH VALLEY soup scores 46/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides some micronutrients like Vitamin A and iron, its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) means it's not a primary source of whole, unprocessed nutrients. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented by whole foods.
How does HEALTH VALLEY compare to other canned chicken soups?
Compared to many generic canned chicken soups, this HEALTH VALLEY soup has 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat per 100g, which can be a positive. However, its sodium content of 200mg per 100g is comparable to or slightly lower than some other brands like Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle Soup. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons, as formulations vary widely.
What is 'orzo rice pasta' in this soup?
The 'orzo rice pasta' in this HEALTH VALLEY soup is a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat-based orzo. It is made from rice flour, egg white, xanthan gum, and rice bran extract. This ingredient provides the pasta texture while being suitable for those avoiding gluten, though it still contains egg as an allergen.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size for this HEALTH VALLEY soup is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage calorie and sodium intake. If consuming more than one serving, be mindful that the nutrient values, particularly sodium, will increase proportionally. Pairing it with a side of vegetables can make a single serving more satisfying.
Can this soup be stored after opening?
Yes, after opening, any unused portion of this HEALTH VALLEY soup should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. For best quality and safety, it should be consumed within 3-4 days. Freezing is generally not recommended for canned soups as it can alter the texture of the ingredients.

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