PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **added sugar** and **sodium content**.
FoodScore: 43/100 (Poor), indicating a highly processed product.
Contains 5.83g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty.
Provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g, a positive contribution from tomatoes.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), reflecting its formulation beyond basic ingredients.
A 1/2 cup serving contains 400mg of sodium, which is 17% of the Daily Value.
Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.83g
12% of Daily Value
Sodium
400mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.8g)-5
Sodium (400mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 43
PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its formulation as a NOVA 3 processed food, incurring a 5-point penalty. A significant factor is the added sugar content, with 5.83g per 100g, which leads to a 5-point deduction. The ingredient list shows 'SUGAR' as the third ingredient, indicating its prominence. Additionally, the product contains 400mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in a 1-point penalty. On the positive side, the sauce benefits from its tomato base, providing 2.5g of fiber per 100g, which earns a 2-point bonus. It also offers a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g, adding another 2 bonus points. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and complex carbohydrates with less added sugar and sodium, this PREGO sauce falls short due to its nutrient profile and processing level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in prego italian sauce flavored with meat, meat actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This PREGO sauce provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g, primarily from the tomato puree and diced tomatoes. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not a high-fiber food, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when combined with other fiber-rich foods in a meal. Including fiber in your diet is a key aspect of a balanced eating pattern.
Good Source of Vitamin A
PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g. This is largely due to the tomato content, as tomatoes are naturally rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A can support these bodily functions as part of a varied diet.
Convenient Meal Component
This product offers a convenient base for meals, allowing for quick preparation of pasta dishes, casseroles, or other tomato-based recipes. Its ready-to-use format can help individuals save time in the kitchen, making it easier to prepare home-cooked meals compared to making sauce from scratch. While convenience is a benefit, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when integrating such products into regular dietary patterns.
PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its added sugar and sodium content.
How to eat it
PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT is typically used as a sauce for pasta, a base for lasagna, or an ingredient in other savory dishes. A common serving size is 1/2 cup, which is 125g. Be mindful of the added sugar and sodium content when pairing it with other ingredients.
Pair with whole-wheat pasta and plenty of non-starchy vegetables like spinach or zucchini to increase fiber and nutrient density.
To reduce overall sodium, dilute the sauce with unsalted diced tomatoes or a low-sodium vegetable broth.
Use as a base for homemade pizza with a thin whole-wheat crust and lean protein to control portion sizes and added ingredients.
Consider using a smaller portion of the sauce and supplementing with fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding more sodium or sugar.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars should be aware that 'SUGAR' is the third ingredient in PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT, contributing 5.83g per 100g. The sodium content of 400mg per 100g is also notable, and those on sodium-restricted diets should account for this. The product contains 'BEEF' and 'BEEF FAT', making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. There are no common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg explicitly declared as primary ingredients, but individuals with severe allergies should always verify with the manufacturer for cross-contamination risks.
Is PREGO ITALIAN SAUCE FLAVORED WITH MEAT, MEAT healthy?
This PREGO sauce scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and Vitamin A from tomatoes, its nutritional profile is significantly impacted by the added sugar and sodium content. It is considered a processed food, and regular consumption should be balanced with less processed options.
How does PREGO compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent or a homemade sauce with no added sugar and controlled sodium, this PREGO sauce has higher levels of added sugar and sodium. Some other brands, like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce, may offer lower added sugar and sodium options, though nutrient profiles vary widely across the category.
What is 'FLAVORING DEHYDRATED BEEF STOCK' in the ingredient list?
'FLAVORING DEHYDRATED BEEF STOCK' is an ingredient used to enhance the savory, meaty taste of the sauce. It is a concentrated form of beef stock that contributes to the overall flavor profile. While it adds taste, it does not significantly contribute to the macronutrient content of the sauce.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A reasonable portion size is 1/2 cup (125g), as indicated on the label. This serving provides 75 calories, 5.83g of added sugar, and 400mg of sodium. Being mindful of this portion size can help manage your intake of added sugars and sodium, especially if you are consuming other processed foods in the same meal.
Can this sauce be part of a balanced diet?
Yes, this sauce can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired thoughtfully. To improve the nutritional balance, combine it with whole grains, lean proteins, and a generous amount of fresh or frozen vegetables. This approach helps to offset the higher added sugar and sodium content.