Pace Medium Picante Sauce, 8 oz. receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its **high sodium content**.
Pace Medium Picante Sauce scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
The most significant concern is its high sodium content at 833.33mg per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a degree of industrial processing.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 3.3g of fiber per 100g.
Use in moderation due to its sodium level, especially if monitoring blood pressure.
Scores +12 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
3.3g
12% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
833.33mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.3g)+3
−
What holds it back
Sodium (833.3mg)-4
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
Pace Medium Picante Sauce, 8 oz. achieves a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor influencing this score is its high sodium content, which stands at 833.33mg per 100g serving. This significantly contributes to a -4 penalty in the FoodScore calculation. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 3 (processed) incurs a -5 penalty, reflecting its industrial processing. On the positive side, the presence of 3.3g of fiber per 100g provides a +3 bonus. The ingredient list, featuring 'CRUSHED TOMATOES (WATER, CRUSHED TOMATO CONCENTRATE)', 'JALAPENO PEPPERS', and 'ONIONS', indicates a base of vegetables, but the overall formulation includes components like 'NATURAL FLAVORING' and 'GARLIC EXTRACT' which are common in processed foods. Compared to a generic unbranded picante sauce, this PACE product's nutritional profile is similar, with sodium being a consistent concern across the category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pace medium picante sauce, 8 oz. actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Dietary Fiber
Pace Medium Picante Sauce contains 3.3g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to a feeling of fullness. While not a primary source, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when consumed as part of a meal. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is generally beneficial for overall well-being.
Low in Calories and Fat
This picante sauce is notably low in calories and fat, with only 33 calories and 0g of total fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their caloric or fat intake, this product can be a suitable condiment choice. Its low energy density allows for flavor enhancement without significantly adding to the overall calorie count of a meal, supporting weight management goals when used appropriately.
Source of Vegetables
The primary ingredients in Pace Medium Picante Sauce are 'CRUSHED TOMATOES', 'JALAPENO PEPPERS', and 'ONIONS'. These ingredients provide some of the beneficial compounds found in vegetables, such as antioxidants and other phytonutrients. While processing can alter nutrient profiles, incorporating vegetable-based condiments can be a way to add variety and some nutritional value to meals, contributing to a more diverse diet.
Pace Medium Picante Sauce, 8 oz. receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its high sodium content.
How to eat it
Pace Medium Picante Sauce is typically used as a condiment or ingredient to add flavor and a mild to medium spice level to various dishes. It's commonly served with Mexican-inspired meals, eggs, or as a dip. A typical serving size is often around 30g (2 tablespoons), but consumers may use more, which can impact overall sodium intake.
Use Pace Medium Picante Sauce to add flavor to lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish, enhancing taste without adding significant calories.
Combine with plain Greek yogurt to create a lower-sodium creamy dip for vegetables or whole-grain crackers.
Incorporate into homemade chili or stews to boost vegetable content and flavor, but be mindful of the overall sodium contribution to the dish.
Measure your portion to manage sodium intake; a 2-tablespoon serving is a reasonable amount for most meals.
Things to keep in mind
The most significant caution for Pace Medium Picante Sauce relates to its high sodium content. With 833.33mg of sodium per 100g, frequent or large servings could contribute substantially to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient 'SALT' is explicitly listed, indicating it's an added component. While generally safe for most populations, individuals sensitive to spicy foods may experience digestive discomfort from the 'JALAPENO PEPPERS'. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, nor are there artificial sweeteners or colors that typically warrant specific warnings.
Pace Medium Picante Sauce has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor). While it is low in calories and fat and contains some fiber, its high sodium content is a significant nutritional drawback. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, especially considering its contribution to daily sodium intake.
How does Pace Medium Picante Sauce compare to other brands?
Compared to other popular picante sauces like Old El Paso Mild Picante Sauce, Pace Medium Picante Sauce typically has a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable sodium levels. Many branded picante sauces are classified as NOVA 3 (processed) due to their manufacturing methods and ingredient lists, which often include natural flavorings and added salt.
What is 'NATURAL FLAVORING' in this sauce?
'NATURAL FLAVORING' is a broad term for ingredients derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, or vegetables, used to enhance flavor. While derived from natural sources, the specific compounds can be highly processed. In Pace Medium Picante Sauce, it contributes to the overall taste profile without adding significant nutritional value.
How much picante sauce can I eat daily?
Given its high sodium content, it's advisable to consume Pace Medium Picante Sauce in moderation. A typical serving of 30g (2 tablespoons) contributes a notable amount of sodium. If you are monitoring your sodium intake, consider using smaller portions or balancing it with low-sodium foods throughout the day.
Can I use this sauce for cooking?
Yes, Pace Medium Picante Sauce can be used in cooking to add flavor and a mild heat to dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or scrambled eggs. It's a convenient way to incorporate tomato and pepper flavors. However, remember to account for its sodium content when adding other salty ingredients to your recipe.