FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentcondimentNEWMAN'S OWN· 0.5 cup

Newman's Own Marinara Pasta Sauce

NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce scores 47/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite a beneficial contribution of Vitamin A.

  • NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce receives a FoodScore of 47/100.
  • It is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), impacting its overall score.
  • This sauce provides 113% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
  • With 308.94mg of sodium per 100g, it is higher in sodium compared to a generic marinara sauce.
  • The product contains 0g of added sugar, aligning with a low-sugar dietary approach.
  • Scores +1 points above the condiment category average (46/100 across 29 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.63g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
308.94mg
13% 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

NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce achieves a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its classification as a processed food. The product receives a significant bonus for its Vitamin A content, providing 113% of the Daily Value per 100g, primarily from the organic tomato puree and organic carrot puree. However, its NOVA class 3 designation, indicating it is a processed food, incurs a 5-point penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive attribute, its sodium content at 308.94mg per 100g is a factor to consider, especially for individuals monitoring sodium intake. Compared to a generic unbranded marinara sauce, NEWMAN'S OWN offers a similar nutritional profile but stands out with its organic ingredients and absence of added sugars. The inclusion of organic extra virgin olive oil contributes to its total fat content, which is primarily unsaturated.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in newman's own marinara pasta sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Rich in Vitamin A

This marinara sauce is an excellent source of Vitamin A, providing 113% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. The high content is largely due to the organic tomato puree and organic carrot puree used in the formulation. Incorporating this sauce can help contribute to your daily Vitamin A requirements, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.

No Added Sugars

NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce contains 0g of added sugar per serving. This is a significant benefit for individuals looking to reduce their intake of added sugars, which are often found in many processed sauces. The sweetness in this product comes naturally from the organic tomatoes and carrots. Choosing products without added sugars can help manage blood sugar levels and support overall dietary health, aligning with recommendations to limit discretionary calories from added sugars.

Source of Antioxidants

The organic tomatoes in this marinara sauce are naturally rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant responsible for the red color of tomatoes. Lycopene has been studied for its potential role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. The cooking process involved in making tomato puree can actually increase the bioavailability of lycopene, making it more readily absorbed by the body. This product can contribute to your intake of beneficial plant compounds that support cellular health.

How to eat it

Marinara pasta sauce is a versatile condiment commonly used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or a dipping sauce. A typical serving size is 0.5 cup, which can easily be incorporated into various meals. It's important to consider the overall meal composition to ensure a balanced nutritional intake.

Pair with whole-grain pasta and lean protein like chicken or legumes to create a more complete and fiber-rich meal.
Use as a base for homemade pizza with plenty of vegetables to boost micronutrient intake.
Dilute with a small amount of water or vegetable broth when simmering to slightly reduce the sodium concentration per bite.
Serve alongside a large green salad with a light vinaigrette to add fresh vegetables and dietary fiber.
Things to keep in mind

This product is generally safe for consumption for most individuals. There are no major allergens declared on the label such as milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily consisting of organic vegetables and olive oil. Individuals sensitive to nightshades, such as tomatoes, should be aware of the high tomato content. While the sodium content is 308.94mg per 100g, which is moderate, those on a sodium-restricted diet should monitor their portion sizes and overall daily sodium intake. The inclusion of organic extra virgin olive oil contributes to the fat content, which is primarily unsaturated and generally considered beneficial.

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Reader questions
Is NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce healthy?
NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce scores 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is a good source of Vitamin A and contains no added sugars. However, it is a processed food (NOVA 3) and has a moderate sodium content. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall diet and portion control.
How does NEWMAN'S OWN compare to other marinara sauces?
Compared to a generic unbranded marinara sauce, NEWMAN'S OWN offers a similar nutritional profile but stands out for its organic ingredients and the absence of added sugars. When compared to brands like Rao's Homemade Marinara, NEWMAN'S OWN may have a slightly different flavor profile and ingredient sourcing, but both are generally considered quality options in the pasta sauce category.
What is 'organic tomato puree'?
Organic tomato puree is a concentrated form of tomatoes made from organic tomatoes, water, and often citric acid. In this product, it serves as the primary base, contributing to the sauce's texture, flavor, and its high Vitamin A content. Using organic ingredients means they are grown and processed without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
What is a typical portion size for this sauce?
A typical serving size for NEWMAN'S OWN Marinara Pasta Sauce is 0.5 cup (125g). This portion provides 81 calories, 4.06g of total fat, and 386mg of sodium. Adhering to the recommended serving size helps manage calorie and sodium intake within a meal.
Can I use this sauce for more than just pasta?
Yes, this marinara sauce is quite versatile. Beyond pasta, it can be used as a pizza sauce base, a dipping sauce for breadsticks or vegetables, or as an ingredient in casseroles and stews. Its flavor profile, with organic basil and garlic, makes it suitable for a variety of savory applications.

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Data & references