MARIE CALLENDER'S CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS SOUP, CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup scores 40/100 (Poor) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
This product received a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
The sodium content is 258.82mg per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this SKU contains more additives and less fiber (0.5g/100g).
Scores -6 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.5g
2% of Daily Value
Protein
2.12g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.2g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
258.82mg
11% 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
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup received a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. Per 100g, the product contains 258.82mg of sodium, which is a moderate amount that can quickly add up when consuming the entire can. The fiber content is low at 0.5g per 100g, and the protein content is 2.12g per 100g. While it has a relatively low calorie count at 38.12 calories per 100g and low added sugar at 0.2g per 100g, the overall nutritional density is limited. The ingredient list includes various additives such as modified corn starch, guar gum, xanthan gum, and flavorings, which are common in ultra-processed foods. Compared to a home-cooked chicken and dumplings soup made with whole ingredients, this MARIE CALLENDER'S product offers less fiber and a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in marie callender's chicken & dumplings soup, chicken & dumplings actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Meal Option
This soup offers a quick and convenient meal solution for busy individuals or those with limited cooking time. Its ready-to-eat format means minimal preparation is required, making it a practical choice when a home-cooked meal is not feasible. While not a nutritionally dense option, it can serve as a base for a meal when paired with other ingredients to enhance its nutritional value.
Source of Protein
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup provides 2.12g of protein per 100g, contributing to your daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as for satiety. While not a high-protein food, it can contribute to the protein content of a meal, especially when combined with other protein sources.
Low in Added Sugar
With only 0.2g of added sugar per 100g, this product is relatively low in added sugars. Limiting added sugar intake is a key recommendation from dietary guidelines to support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. This makes it a better choice than many other processed foods that often contain higher amounts of added sweeteners.
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup scores 40/100 (Poor) primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate sodium content.
How to eat it
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup is typically consumed as a standalone meal or a component of a larger meal. It is designed for convenience, often heated and eaten directly from the can or a bowl. A common pitfall is consuming the entire can without considering the sodium content.
To improve the nutritional profile, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, kale, or extra carrots to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Pair the soup with a side salad dressed with vinaigrette or a piece of whole-grain bread to create a more balanced and filling meal.
To manage sodium intake, consider diluting the soup with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth, especially if you are monitoring your sodium levels.
Portion control is important; if consuming the entire can, be mindful of the 258.82mg of sodium per 100g and adjust other meals accordingly.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including wheat, eggs, milk, and soy, as indicated by ingredients like wheat flour, eggs, cream, nonfat milk, and isolated soy protein. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of modified corn starch, guar gum, and xanthan gum, while generally recognized as safe, may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals sensitive to certain food additives. The sodium content of 258.82mg per 100g means that consuming the entire can will contribute significantly to the daily recommended sodium limit, which is a consideration for individuals managing blood pressure.
Is MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup healthy?
MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup received a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile. It is an ultra-processed food with moderate sodium and low fiber. While it offers convenience and some protein, it is not considered a primary source of essential nutrients for a healthy diet.
How does MARIE CALLENDER'S Chicken & Dumplings Soup compare to Campbell's Chicken & Dumplings Soup?
Nutritional profiles can vary between brands. When comparing MARIE CALLENDER'S to a similar product like Campbell's Chicken & Dumplings Soup, it's important to check the specific nutrient labels for differences in sodium, fiber, and protein content. Both are typically ultra-processed, so a direct comparison of their ingredient lists and nutrient values is recommended for an informed choice.
What is 'isolated soy protein' in the ingredient list?
Isolated soy protein is a highly refined form of soy protein that has been processed to remove most of the fat and carbohydrates. It is often used in processed foods to boost protein content or improve texture. While a source of protein, it is a processed ingredient rather than a whole food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is 1 can. However, if you are monitoring sodium intake, you might consider consuming a smaller portion, such as half a can, and supplementing with other low-sodium foods. Always check the nutrition facts for the entire can to understand the total nutrient contribution.
Can this soup be frozen after opening?
The manufacturer's instructions typically recommend refrigerating any unused portion in a separate container and consuming it within a few days. While technically possible to freeze, the texture of the dumplings and other ingredients may change upon thawing, potentially affecting the quality of the soup. It is generally best consumed fresh after opening.