MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE, TOMATO earns a FoodScore of 67/100 (Good), primarily driven by its notable fiber content and minimal processing.
This product scores 67/100, indicating a good nutritional profile.
A serving provides 6.1g of fiber, contributing positively to daily intake.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of total fat, aligning with dietary guidelines.
As a NOVA 2 processed culinary ingredient, it is less processed than many other food items.
Use in cooking to add flavor and nutrients without significant sodium or fat.
Scores +25 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
6.09g
22% of Daily Value
Protein
3.03g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
60.91mg
3% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.1g)+7
Micronutrients (Potassium)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 67
MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE, TOMATO achieves a FoodScore of 67 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely influenced by its favorable nutritional composition and minimal processing. The product receives a significant bonus of +7 points for its high fiber content, providing 6.1g per 100g. Additionally, it gains +2 points for its micronutrient profile, specifically for potassium, which is present at 818.18mg per 100g (17% DV). The formulation is straightforward, containing only tomato paste and citric acid, with no added sugars or fats, which prevents any penalties in those categories. Its classification as a NOVA 2 processed culinary ingredient also contributes positively with an +8 point bonus, indicating it is a minimally processed food used in meal preparation. Compared to a generic unbranded tomato paste, this MARKET PANTRY product performs similarly, offering a comparable nutrient density without any concerning additives or excessive sodium, which is only 60.91mg per 100g.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in market pantry tomato paste, tomato actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE is a good source of dietary fiber, with 6.1g per 100g. This fiber content can contribute to maintaining regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. Including fiber-rich foods like tomato paste in your diet helps support a healthy gut microbiome. It can be easily incorporated into various dishes to boost their fiber content.
Provides Essential Potassium
This tomato paste offers a notable amount of potassium, providing 818.18mg (17% DV) per 100g. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure within the body. Regular intake of potassium-rich foods can support cardiovascular health. The presence of tomato paste as the primary ingredient naturally contributes to this mineral content.
Low in Added Sugar and Fat
MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of total fat per 100g. This makes it a suitable ingredient for those looking to manage their intake of added sugars and unhealthy fats. Its simple ingredient list, featuring only tomato paste and citric acid, ensures that you are adding flavor and nutrients to your meals without contributing to excess calories from these components.
MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE, TOMATO earns a FoodScore of 67/100 (Good), primarily driven by its notable fiber content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, typically used to deepen the flavor and thicken sauces, soups, and stews. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which provides a rich umami flavor and a boost of nutrients. It's often added early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop.
Sauté tomato paste with aromatics like onions and garlic before adding liquids to enhance its flavor profile.
Use it to thicken and enrich homemade pasta sauces, chilis, and curries, adding a concentrated tomato essence.
Mix a small amount into marinades for meats or vegetables to add depth and a touch of acidity.
Store leftover tomato paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze in small portions for future culinary use.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE, TOMATO is very simple: tomato paste and citric acid. Citric acid is a common food additive used as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer, generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens declared on the label. This product does not contain any artificial sweeteners, colors, or emulsifiers that might be a concern for some individuals. Given its low sodium content (60.91mg per 100g), it is suitable for most dietary patterns, including those monitoring sodium intake. There are no specific populations that need to exercise particular caution with this SKU.
MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE, TOMATO scores 67/100, which is considered 'Good' by FoodScore. It is a nutrient-dense ingredient, providing fiber and potassium, with no added sugar or fat. Its minimal processing also contributes to its favorable score, making it a healthy addition to many meals.
How does MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE compare to other brands?
Compared to other common brands of tomato paste like Contadina or Hunt's, MARKET PANTRY TOMATO PASTE offers a similar nutritional profile. Most plain tomato pastes are minimally processed and share comparable fiber and potassium content, without significant differences in added sugars or fats. Always check the ingredient list for specific brand variations.
What is citric acid in tomato paste?
Citric acid is a naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits and is often added to tomato paste. In this product, it serves as a natural preservative to maintain freshness and also contributes a slight tartness that enhances the overall flavor. It is a common and safe food additive.
How much tomato paste should I use in a recipe?
The typical serving size for tomato paste is 2 tablespoons, but the amount used in a recipe can vary. Since it is highly concentrated, a little goes a long way to add rich tomato flavor. Adjust according to your recipe's requirements and your personal taste preferences, keeping in mind its fiber and potassium contributions.
Can I use tomato paste as a substitute for tomato sauce?
While both are tomato-based, tomato paste is much more concentrated than tomato sauce. You can dilute tomato paste with water or broth to create a sauce-like consistency, but it will have a more intense flavor. It's generally better to use tomato paste to deepen flavors rather than as a direct, equal-volume substitute for tomato sauce.