HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP scores 47/100 (Decent). Its primary strength is a high Vitamin A content, while its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food impacts the overall score.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP has a FoodScore of 47/100.
A single serving provides 93% DV of Vitamin A, a notable micronutrient contribution.
With 21mg of sodium per 100g, this soup is a very low sodium option.
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it contains processed ingredients.
Consider pairing with a protein source to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
21mg
1% 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 MINESTRONE SOUP achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its classification as a processed food. A significant positive contributor to its score is the high Vitamin A content, providing 93% of the Daily Value per 100g. The product also contains a modest amount of protein at 1.67g per 100g and 1.2g of fiber, both contributing positively to satiety and digestive health. Notably, this soup is very low in sodium, with only 21mg per 100g, making it a suitable option for those monitoring sodium intake. However, the presence of organic corn starch as a thickener and organic evaporated cane juice as a sweetener, even in small amounts, contributes to its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food. Compared to a home-cooked minestrone made with whole ingredients, this HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC version offers convenience but includes some processed components that slightly reduce its overall nutritional density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley organic minestrone soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Vitamin A
This minestrone soup is an excellent source of Vitamin A, providing 93% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. The inclusion of ingredients like organic carrots and organic spinach contributes to this high Vitamin A content. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A can help meet daily requirements for this essential micronutrient.
Very Low Sodium Option
With only 21mg of sodium per 100g, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP is a very low sodium choice. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management or other health considerations. Many canned soups can be high in sodium, making this product a valuable alternative for those seeking to reduce their dietary sodium without sacrificing convenience. The formulation prioritizes a lower sodium profile compared to many other prepared soups.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This soup provides 1.2g of dietary fiber per 100g, contributing to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The various organic vegetables and beans, such as organic red kidney beans and organic peas, are natural sources of this beneficial nutrient. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP scores 47/100 (Decent). Its primary strength is a high Vitamin A content, while its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food impacts the overall score.
How to eat it
Minestrone soup is commonly consumed as a light meal or a starter. A typical serving size is 1 cup, often heated and eaten directly from the can or a bowl. It can be a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner, especially when time is limited. Be mindful of what you pair it with to create a balanced meal.
To enhance the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken breast, chickpeas, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
Pair with a side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for additional vegetables and healthy fats.
Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread to add complex carbohydrates and fiber to your meal.
For a more substantial meal, stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice directly into the soup.
Always check the serving size; one can often contains multiple servings, so measure your portion to manage intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic wheat flour and organic egg whites as components of the organic pasta, indicating the presence of common allergens: wheat and egg. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the wheat content. Similarly, those with egg allergies should exercise caution. The soup is classified as NOVA 3 (processed) due to ingredients like organic corn starch and organic evaporated cane juice, which are refined components. While these are not typically considered harmful in moderation, consumers aiming for a diet composed solely of whole, unprocessed foods may wish to limit intake. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP offers some nutritional benefits, notably its high Vitamin A content (93% DV per 100g) and very low sodium (21mg per 100g). However, it is classified as a NOVA 3 processed food due to ingredients like organic corn starch and organic evaporated cane juice. It can be a part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with other whole foods.
How does HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Minestrone compare to other canned soups?
Compared to many other canned minestrone soups, such as those from Campbell's or Progresso, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Minestrone stands out for its very low sodium content and the use of organic ingredients. While other brands may offer similar convenience, they often contain significantly higher sodium levels and sometimes artificial ingredients. This product's Vitamin A content is also a notable advantage.
What is 'organic evaporated cane juice' in the ingredient list?
Organic evaporated cane juice is a less refined form of sugar derived from sugarcane. While it is organic, it is still an added sugar from a nutritional perspective, even if the amount in this soup is minimal (0g added sugar per 100g). Its presence contributes to the product's NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
What is a recommended portion size for this soup?
The recommended serving size for HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP is 1 cup (240g). This portion provides 91 calories, 4g of protein, and 2.9g of fiber. Sticking to the recommended serving size helps manage calorie and nutrient intake. You can supplement this portion with other foods to create a more complete meal.
Can this soup be stored after opening?
Yes, after opening, any unused portion of HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC MINESTRONE SOUP should be transferred to an airtight, non-metallic container and refrigerated. It is generally recommended to consume the refrigerated soup within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. Freezing is also an option for longer storage.