PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN, RICOTTA PARMESAN
PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN scores 49/100, a 'Decent' rating, primarily due to its NOVA Class 3 processed nature, despite a notable fiber content.
This PREGO sauce received a FoodScore of 49/100, categorized as 'Decent'.
It provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g serving, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is its NOVA Class 3 rating, indicating it is a processed food.
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this sauce offers less whole grain content.
Consider portion sizes, as a 0.5 cup serving contains 300mg of sodium.
Scores +2 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
300mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 49
PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN achieves a FoodScore of 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the sauce provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g, which contributes a +2 bonus. It also offers a notable amount of Vitamin A, earning another +2 bonus. However, the product is classified as NOVA Class 3, meaning it is processed, which incurs a -5 penalty. The ingredient list includes sugar and canola oil, common in processed sauces. While the product name includes 'HEART SMART', its sodium content at 300mg per 100g is moderate, and it contains 0.83g of saturated fat per 100g. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this sauce does not offer the same benefits in terms of whole grain content, focusing instead on a tomato and cheese base. The overall score indicates it can fit into a balanced diet when consumed mindfully.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in prego, heart smart, italian sauce, ricotta parmesan, ricotta parmesan actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This PREGO sauce provides 2.5g of fiber per 100g serving. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can support overall well-being. This amount can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when paired with other fiber-rich ingredients in a meal.
Good Source of Vitamin A
PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a crucial nutrient for vision health, immune function, and skin health. The presence of tomato puree as the primary ingredient contributes significantly to this vitamin content. Incorporating this sauce can help you meet your daily Vitamin A requirements.
Versatile Meal Base
This sauce serves as a convenient base for meals, allowing for the easy incorporation of vegetables and lean proteins. Its flavor profile, derived from ingredients like ricotta cheese and parmesan cheese, can enhance the palatability of dishes. Using a prepared sauce like this can simplify meal preparation, making it easier to create home-cooked meals that include various food groups.
PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN scores 49/100, a 'Decent' rating, primarily due to its NOVA Class 3 processed nature, despite a notable fiber content.
How to eat it
This PREGO sauce is typically used as a pasta sauce, but its versatility extends to other dishes. A common serving size is 0.5 cup, which can be part of a balanced meal. It's often heated and tossed with pasta, or used as a base for casseroles and baked dishes.
To enhance the nutritional profile, pair with whole-wheat pasta and a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Use this sauce as a base for a lean protein dish, such as chicken or turkey meatballs, to create a more balanced meal.
Consider diluting the sauce with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth to reduce the sodium concentration per serving.
When using in casseroles, incorporate extra fiber by adding canned beans or lentils to the sauce mixture.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. The ingredient list includes 'sugar' and 'lower sodium natural sea salt,' indicating the presence of both added sugars and sodium. While the 'HEART SMART' claim might suggest otherwise, the sodium content of 300mg per 100g should be considered, especially for individuals monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. The NOVA Class 3 classification indicates it is a processed food, which may be a consideration for those aiming for a diet rich in minimally processed foods.
Is PREGO, HEART SMART, ITALIAN SAUCE, RICOTTA PARMESAN healthy?
This PREGO sauce scores 49/100, categorized as 'Decent.' It offers fiber and Vitamin A, but is also a processed food (NOVA Class 3). Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and how it's incorporated into meals. Portion control is important due to its sodium content.
How does PREGO compare to other Italian sauces?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this PREGO sauce does not provide whole grains. When comparing to other branded Italian sauces like Rao's Homemade Marinara, you might find differences in sodium, added sugar, and ingredient quality. Always check the nutrition facts and ingredient list of specific products for a direct comparison.
What does 'HEART SMART' mean on the label?
The 'HEART SMART' claim on the label typically implies that the product is formulated with heart health in mind, often by being lower in saturated fat or cholesterol. For this PREGO sauce, it contains 0.83g of saturated fat per 100g. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile, including sodium and processing level, in the context of heart health.
What is a typical portion size for this sauce?
The recommended serving size for this PREGO sauce is 0.5 cup. This portion provides 75 calories, 2.5g of protein, and 300mg of sodium. Adhering to the serving size helps manage calorie and sodium intake, especially when combined with other meal components.
Can I use this sauce for more than just pasta?
Yes, this sauce is versatile beyond pasta. You can use it as a base for chicken or eggplant parmesan, in lasagna, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. It can also be incorporated into vegetable bakes or used to simmer meatballs, adding flavor to various dishes.