HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP scores 47/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering a notable amount of Vitamin A.
This HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC soup has a FoodScore of 47/100.
It provides 46% DV of Vitamin A per 100g serving.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), impacting its overall score.
Compared to a home-cooked version, it has lower micronutrient diversity.
One cup provides 33 calories, making it a light meal or snack option.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
2.08g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
55.83mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP receives a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some positive nutritional aspects with its classification as a processed food. The primary positive contributor is its Vitamin A content, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g, likely from the organic carrots. However, the product incurs a penalty for being a NOVA 3 processed food, indicating it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as 'FLAVORS (CONTAINS YEAST EXTRACT)' and 'ORGANIC ACACIA GUM'. While it contains no added sugar and has a low sodium content at 55.83mg per 100g, its overall micronutrient profile is limited, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, folate, and Vitamin C. Compared to a home-cooked chicken noodle soup made with whole ingredients, this HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC option offers less nutrient density and a simpler ingredient list, which can be a trade-off for convenience.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley organic chicken noodle soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This soup is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. The presence of organic carrots in the ingredient list is likely the primary contributor to this nutrient. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can help meet daily requirements, especially for individuals who may not regularly consume a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables.
Low in Sodium
With only 55.83mg of sodium per 100g, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP is a low-sodium option. Managing sodium intake is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. For individuals monitoring their sodium consumption, this product can be a suitable choice as part of a balanced diet. It offers a convenient way to enjoy a warm meal without significantly contributing to daily sodium limits, especially when compared to many other canned or prepared soups.
Convenient Meal Option
This HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC soup provides a convenient and quick meal solution. For busy individuals or those with limited access to cooking facilities, a prepared soup can be a practical way to consume vegetables and protein. While it is a processed food, its ready-to-heat format offers an accessible option for a light lunch or dinner, which can be beneficial in situations where preparing a meal from scratch is not feasible. Its simplicity makes it easy to incorporate into a varied diet.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP scores 47/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering a notable amount of Vitamin A.
How to eat it
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP is typically consumed as a light meal or snack, often heated and eaten directly from the can or a bowl. It's a convenient option for a quick lunch or a warm, comforting food when feeling unwell. The standard portion is 1 cup.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers while heating.
Pair with a side salad or a piece of whole-grain toast to create a more filling and balanced meal.
For increased protein, stir in some shredded lean chicken breast or a hard-boiled egg after heating.
Be mindful of the 1-cup serving size; if consuming more, remember to account for the increased calorie and nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic noodles made from 'ORGANIC WHEAT FLOUR' and 'ORGANIC WHOLE EGGS', indicating it is not suitable for individuals with wheat or egg allergies, or those following a gluten-free diet. While the ingredient list is relatively straightforward for a processed soup, the presence of 'FLAVORS (CONTAINS YEAST EXTRACT)' means it may not be appropriate for individuals sensitive to MSG or free glutamates, as yeast extract is a natural source. Overall, for most healthy adults, there are no significant or unusual cautions associated with this specific formulation beyond common allergens.
Is HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Chicken Noodle Soup healthy?
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Chicken Noodle Soup has a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers some nutritional benefits, such as being a good source of Vitamin A and being low in sodium. However, it is a processed food (NOVA 3) and has a limited overall micronutrient profile compared to a meal prepared from whole ingredients.
How does HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Chicken Noodle Soup compare to other canned chicken noodle soups?
Compared to many conventional canned chicken noodle soups, such as Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle Soup, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC typically has lower sodium content and often uses organic ingredients. However, the nutritional density can vary, and it's always best to compare the specific nutrition facts and ingredient lists of individual products.
What is 'ORGANIC ACACIA GUM' and why is it in this soup?
ORGANIC ACACIA GUM is a natural gum derived from the acacia tree. In this soup, it likely functions as a thickener or stabilizer, contributing to the soup's texture and preventing ingredients from separating. It is a common food additive used to improve the consistency of many processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size for HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Chicken Noodle Soup is 1 cup (240g). This portion provides 33 calories, 2.08g of protein, and 1.2g of fiber. It is a light portion, and you may choose to consume more depending on your individual calorie needs and hunger levels, but remember to adjust nutrient intake accordingly.
Can I use this soup as a base for other recipes?
Yes, this soup can serve as a convenient base for other recipes. Its mild flavor profile and low sodium content make it suitable for customization. You could add extra vegetables, different protein sources like beans or lentils, or additional spices to create a more robust and personalized meal.