HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper receives a FoodScore of 47/100 (Decent). Its primary nutritional contribution comes from its **Vitamin A content**, while its NOVA class 3 processing and sodium level are notable factors.
FoodScore: 47/100 (Decent) for HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper.
A serving provides 27% DV of Vitamin A, a notable micronutrient contribution.
Contains 235.77mg of sodium per 100g, which contributes to daily intake.
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), similar to many canned vegetable products.
Can be a convenient way to add vegetables to meals, especially when fresh options are unavailable.
Scores +5 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
0.81g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.28g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
235.77mg
10% 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
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper achieves a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and aspects that contribute to a processed food profile. On the positive side, the product provides a significant amount of Vitamin A, contributing 27% of the Daily Value per 100g, which earns a bonus in the FoodScore calculation. It also offers some fiber (1.6g per 100g) and potassium (333.33mg per 100g). However, the product is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a penalty. The ingredient list includes salt, contributing 235.77mg of sodium per 100g, and sugar, adding 2.28g of added sugar per 100g. While these amounts are not excessively high, they are factors in the overall score. Compared to generic unbranded diced tomatoes, HUNT'S version includes additional ingredients like fennel, red pepper, and spices, which contribute to its flavor profile but also to its processed classification.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hunt's, diced fennel & red pepper actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 27% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Including foods rich in Vitamin A in your diet can support these bodily functions. This product can contribute to your daily intake of this micronutrient, especially when fresh options are not readily available or convenient.
Contribution to Vegetable Intake
This product can help increase your overall vegetable intake. While processed, it still contains tomatoes, fennel, and red pepper, which contribute to the recommended daily servings of vegetables. Incorporating more vegetables into meals is associated with various health benefits, including better digestive health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Using canned vegetables like HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper can be a practical strategy to meet these dietary recommendations.
Convenient Meal Addition
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper offers a convenient way to add flavor and vegetables to a variety of dishes. Its diced format and pre-seasoned nature can save preparation time in the kitchen. For individuals with busy schedules, having ready-to-use ingredients like this can make it easier to prepare home-cooked meals, potentially reducing reliance on less nutritious takeout options. The inclusion of fennel and red pepper adds a distinct flavor profile.
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper receives a FoodScore of 47/100 (Decent). Its primary nutritional contribution comes from its Vitamin A content, while its NOVA class 3 processing and sodium level are notable factors.
How to eat it
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper is typically used as an ingredient in cooked dishes, adding a base of tomato flavor along with the distinct notes of fennel and red pepper. It's commonly incorporated into sauces, stews, soups, and casseroles. A common portion size is 0.5 cup, as indicated on the label.
Incorporate into pasta sauces or chili to boost vegetable content and flavor.
Add to scrambled eggs or omelets for a savory breakfast or brunch option.
Use as a base for homemade pizza sauce, spreading it directly onto the crust before adding other toppings.
Stir into rice or quinoa dishes during cooking to infuse them with extra nutrients and taste.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper relates to its sodium content. At 235.77mg per 100g, it contributes to daily sodium intake, which is a consideration for individuals monitoring their blood pressure. The ingredient list also includes sugar, contributing 2.28g of added sugar per 100g. While not a high amount, those managing blood sugar levels should be aware of all sources of added sugar. The product contains calcium chloride, a firming agent, and citric acid, a common food additive used for flavor and preservation, which are generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It provides beneficial Vitamin A and contributes to vegetable intake. However, it is a processed food (NOVA 3) and contains added sodium and a small amount of added sugar, which are factors to consider in a balanced diet.
How does HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper compare to generic diced tomatoes?
Compared to generic unbranded diced tomatoes, HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper offers a more complex flavor profile due to the addition of fennel and red pepper. Nutritionally, it's similar in terms of calories and macronutrients, but the specific additions contribute to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food. Brands like Muir Glen also offer flavored diced tomatoes, often with varying sodium levels.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' refers to a substance extracted from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, vegetable, or herb) that is used solely for flavor, not for nutritional value. In HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper, it's likely used to enhance the overall taste of the tomato, fennel, and red pepper blend. The specific components of natural flavors are not disclosed on the label.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper is 0.5 cup. This is a reasonable portion to incorporate into meals like sauces, stews, or casseroles. While it contributes to your vegetable intake, remember to balance it with other fresh or less processed vegetable sources throughout the day to ensure a diverse nutrient intake.
Can I use this product in a low-sodium diet?
HUNT'S Diced Fennel & Red Pepper contains 235.77mg of sodium per 100g. While not extremely high, it's not considered a low-sodium product. For individuals on a strict low-sodium diet, it would be advisable to look for no-salt-added or low-sodium versions of diced tomatoes, or to use it sparingly and account for its sodium contribution in your daily intake.