MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 28/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL has a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
The product contains 9.4g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 484.38mg of sodium per 100g, this sauce is a notable source of sodium.
This MANWICH product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider using smaller portions or diluting with plain tomato products to reduce sugar and sodium intake.
Scores -4 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
1.59g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.56g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
9.4g
19% of Daily Value
Sodium
484.38mg
21% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (9.4g)-11
Sodium (484.4mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. The product contains 9.4g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of 11 points. Ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and sugar are listed early, indicating their prominence. Additionally, the sauce's sodium content, at 484.38mg per 100g, contributes a minor penalty. As a NOVA 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a 10-point deduction. While it provides a small amount of protein (1.56g) and fiber (1.59g) per 100g, these are not sufficient to offset the penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded sloppy joe sauce, this MANWICH product's nutritional profile is similar, with comparable levels of added sugars and sodium, and both are typically ultra-processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in manwich sloppy joe sauce, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Lycopene
This sauce is made with tomato puree, which is a source of lycopene, an antioxidant. Lycopene is a carotenoid that gives tomatoes their red color and has been studied for its potential role in various aspects of health. While the processing of tomatoes into a puree can alter the bioavailability of lycopene, it remains present in the product. Consuming foods rich in lycopene can contribute to your overall intake of antioxidants.
Provides Some Fiber
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL contains 1.59g of fiber per 100g, partly from the carrot fiber and tomato ingredients. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when combined with other fiber-rich components of a meal, such as whole grain buns or vegetables.
Convenient Meal Base
This product offers convenience as a meal base, allowing for quick preparation of sloppy joes. For individuals with limited time for cooking, having a pre-made sauce can simplify meal assembly. While convenience foods often have nutritional trade-offs, this sauce can be part of a balanced meal when paired with lean protein and plenty of vegetables, helping to ensure a home-cooked meal is still achievable.
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 28/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL is typically used as a base for sloppy joes, mixed with ground meat or a plant-based alternative. A common portion is 1/4 cup, which is intended to flavor a serving of meat. It's often served on buns, which can further impact the overall nutritional profile of the meal.
To reduce the overall sodium and added sugar of your meal, consider mixing the MANWICH sauce with an equal part of plain crushed tomatoes or tomato paste.
Enhance the nutritional value of your sloppy joes by adding extra vegetables such as diced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat mixture.
Serve sloppy joes on whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps instead of white bread to increase fiber intake.
Pair your sloppy joe meal with a side salad or steamed non-starchy vegetables to boost nutrient density.
Be mindful of portion sizes for both the sauce and the bun to manage calorie and carbohydrate intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL, primarily from high fructose corn syrup and sugar. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption, should factor this into their dietary planning. The product also contains a notable amount of sodium, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. The presence of guar gum and xanthan gum, while generally recognized as safe, are thickeners that some individuals with sensitive digestive systems might find cause mild discomfort, though this is uncommon at typical consumption levels.
MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is largely due to its high added sugar content (9.4g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber and lycopene, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation.
How does MANWICH compare to other sloppy joe sauces?
Compared to other branded sloppy joe sauces like Hunt's Manwich Original Sloppy Joe Sauce, MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL has a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable levels of added sugars and sodium. Many products in this category are also classified as ultra-processed. Always check the nutrition facts panel of specific brands for direct comparison.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch. It is included in MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL to provide sweetness and enhance flavor, as well as for its functional properties as a thickener and preservative. Its presence contributes significantly to the product's added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
The declared serving size for MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL is 1/4 cup. This portion contains 2.35g of added sugar and 121mg of sodium. Adhering to this serving size, or even using less, can help manage your intake of added sugars and sodium when incorporating this product into your meal.
Can I use MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL in recipes other than sloppy joes?
Yes, MANWICH SLOPPY JOE SAUCE, ORIGINAL can be used in other recipes where a sweet and savory tomato-based sauce is desired, such as a base for meatloaf, a topping for hot dogs, or mixed into casseroles. However, be mindful of the added sugar and sodium it contributes to the overall dish.