PACE Hot Picante Sauce scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** despite having no added sugar.
PACE Hot Picante Sauce receives a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
This sauce contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, a positive attribute for blood sugar management.
A significant concern is the 780mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty in its score.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it is more processed than a generic, unbranded picante sauce.
Use in moderation to manage sodium intake, especially when paired with other salty foods.
Scores +13 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
3.1g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
780mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.1g)+3
−
What holds it back
Sodium (780mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
PACE Hot Picante Sauce earns a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product contains 3.1g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a bonus of +3 points to its score. This fiber comes from ingredients like crushed tomatoes and jalapeno peppers. However, the most significant factor impacting the score negatively is the high sodium content of 780mg per 100g, resulting in a -3 point penalty. This level of sodium is considerable for a condiment, which is often consumed with other foods that may also contain sodium. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it is considered processed, incurring an additional -5 point penalty. While the product has no added sugar, its overall score is pulled down by the sodium and processing level. Compared to a generic unbranded picante sauce, which might have lower sodium or fewer processing steps, PACE Hot Picante Sauce's score is influenced by these specific formulation choices.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pace hot picante sauce, 24 oz jar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Fiber Intake
PACE Hot Picante Sauce provides 3.1 grams of fiber per 100g serving. Fiber is an important dietary component that aids in digestive health, helps maintain bowel regularity, and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While a condiment, incorporating this sauce can be a small way to increase your daily fiber intake, especially when paired with fiber-rich meals like bean burritos or vegetable bowls. The fiber content primarily comes from the crushed tomatoes and jalapeno peppers.
Low in Calories and Fat
This picante sauce is notably low in calories, with only 31 calories per 100g, and contains 0g of total fat. For individuals monitoring their calorie or fat intake, PACE Hot Picante Sauce can be a suitable condiment choice. Its low energy density means you can add flavor to meals without significantly increasing the caloric load, making it a good option for those managing weight or looking for lighter flavor enhancers.
No Added Sugars
PACE Hot Picante Sauce contains no added sugars, which is a significant nutritional advantage. Many condiments can be hidden sources of added sugars, contributing to excess calorie intake and potentially impacting blood sugar levels. By choosing a sauce without added sugars, consumers can better manage their overall sugar consumption, aligning with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake of discretionary sugars.
PACE Hot Picante Sauce scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content despite having no added sugar.
How to eat it
Picante sauce is a versatile condiment commonly used in Mexican-inspired cuisine, often served with tacos, burritos, nachos, or eggs. It adds a spicy and tangy flavor to dishes. A typical serving is around 2 tablespoons (about 30g), but it's easy to use more, so portion control is key, especially given its sodium content.
Use PACE picante sauce to flavor lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish, adding zest without extra fat.
Incorporate it into homemade chili or soup recipes to add depth of flavor and a mild spicy kick.
Mix with plain Greek yogurt for a lower-sodium dip for vegetables or whole-grain crackers.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a small amount can go a long way in adding flavor without excessive sodium.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for PACE Hot Picante Sauce is its high sodium content. With 780mg per 100g, frequent or large servings could contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient list includes flavoring and garlic extract, which are generally recognized as safe but can sometimes be a concern for those with specific sensitivities, though this is uncommon. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, and no artificial sweeteners or colors are present. Overall, for most healthy adults, the main consideration is moderation due to sodium.
PACE Hot Picante Sauce scores 45/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is low in calories and fat, and contains no added sugars, which are positive attributes. However, its high sodium content (780mg per 100g) is a significant nutritional drawback. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does PACE Hot Picante Sauce compare to other brands like Old El Paso?
Compared to other picante or salsa brands, such as Old El Paso Mild, PACE Hot Picante Sauce's nutritional profile can vary. While both are typically low in calories and fat, sodium content is often the key differentiator. Consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel of specific products, as formulations can differ significantly in sodium and fiber content across brands and varieties.
What is 'flavoring' in the ingredient list?
The term 'flavoring' in the ingredient list refers to a blend of natural or artificial substances used to impart or enhance flavor. In this PACE product, it's likely used to round out the taste profile of the tomatoes and peppers. While the specific components are proprietary, they are generally considered safe for consumption and are present in small quantities.
How much picante sauce can I eat daily?
Given its high sodium content, it's advisable to consume PACE Hot Picante Sauce in moderation. A typical serving size is around 2 tablespoons (30g), which would contribute about 234mg of sodium. Limiting daily intake to one or two servings can help keep your sodium consumption in check, especially if you are also consuming other processed foods.
Can I use this sauce for cooking or just as a topping?
PACE Hot Picante Sauce is versatile and can be used both as a topping and in cooking. Its robust flavor makes it suitable for simmering with meats, adding to casseroles, or mixing into eggs. When cooking with it, be mindful of the added sodium it contributes to the overall dish, and adjust other salty ingredients accordingly.