PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite providing some fiber.
This soup has a FoodScore of 46/100, classifying it as Decent.
It provides 1.7g of fiber per 100g, contributing a bonus point to its score.
A significant concern is its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains 1.7g of added sugar per 100g.
The sodium content is 204.17mg per 100g, which is moderate for a prepared soup.
Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
1.7g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
1.25g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.7g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
204.17mg
9% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.7g)+1
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 46
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and the impact of its processing. The product gains a bonus point for its fiber content, providing 1.7g per 100g. However, it incurs a significant penalty of 5 points due to its NOVA 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food. Ingredients like cane sugar contribute 1.7g of added sugar per 100g, which is a factor in its overall nutritional profile. While it contains some beneficial ingredients like butternut squash puree, the presence of expeller pressed canola oil and natural flavor, along with the processing, differentiate it from a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients. A home-cooked butternut squash soup would typically have no added sugar and a simpler ingredient list, leading to a higher FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific foods organic creamy butternut squash soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This soup provides 1.7g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is a strategy for managing appetite and supporting regular bowel movements. This product can be a convenient way to add some fiber to a meal, especially when time for cooking from scratch is limited.
Convenient Meal Option
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup offers a convenient and quick meal solution. For individuals with busy schedules or limited cooking facilities, a prepared soup can be a practical option to ensure a warm meal. Its ready-to-heat format means minimal preparation time, making it suitable for lunch or a light dinner when paired with other foods to create a balanced meal. The organic certification may also appeal to those seeking organically sourced ingredients.
Lower in Saturated Fat
This soup is notably low in total fat, with only 0.83g per 100g, and contains 0g of saturated fat. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their saturated fat intake, which is often recommended for cardiovascular health. Choosing foods lower in saturated fat can be part of an overall dietary pattern aimed at maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. The primary fat source, expeller pressed canola oil, is generally lower in saturated fat compared to some other oils.
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite providing some fiber.
How to eat it
This soup is typically consumed as a quick meal or side dish. It's often heated and eaten on its own, or sometimes paired with bread or a sandwich. A common portion size is one cup, which is the serving size listed on the package. Be mindful of the sodium content if consuming multiple servings.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this soup with a source of lean protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
Consider adding extra vegetables, such as spinach or roasted broccoli, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
If you are monitoring sodium, dilute the soup with water or unsalted broth to reduce the sodium per serving.
Serve with a small side salad to add fresh greens and variety to your meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy, which is a common allergen. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this soup. The ingredient list includes 'natural flavor,' which can be a broad term and may contain various components; those with specific sensitivities might want to exercise caution. While the sodium content of 204.17mg per 100g is moderate, consuming multiple servings could lead to a higher intake, which individuals on sodium-restricted diets should consider. The added sugar content from cane sugar is relatively low per 100g, but it's still a factor for those managing blood sugar levels.
Is PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup healthy?
This soup has a FoodScore of 46/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. It offers some fiber and is low in saturated fat. However, it is classified as a NOVA 3 processed food and contains added sugar and moderate sodium. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
How does PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup compare to other prepared soups?
Compared to some other prepared soups, such as those from Campbell's or Progresso, PACIFIC FOODS Organic Creamy Butternut Squash Soup may have a similar or slightly better nutritional profile, often due to its organic ingredients and lower saturated fat. However, specific comparisons would require evaluating individual product labels for sodium, added sugar, and ingredient quality.
What is 'natural flavor' in this soup?
'Natural flavor' is a broad term used in ingredient lists for substances derived from a natural source (like a fruit, vegetable, spice, or animal product) that primarily provide flavor rather than nutrition. The specific components are proprietary to the manufacturer and are not disclosed on the label.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (240g). This portion provides 91 calories, 4.1g protein, 4.1g fiber, 2g total fat, 4.1g added sugar, and 490mg sodium. This is a reasonable portion for a light meal or side, but consider the sodium if consuming more than one serving.
Can this soup be frozen after opening?
The manufacturer typically provides storage instructions on the packaging. For most carton soups, once opened, it is recommended to refrigerate any unused portion and consume it within a few days. Freezing opened soup might alter its texture upon thawing, but it is generally safe if done properly in an airtight container.