Prego Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce,Traditional Italian Spaghetti Sauce, 23.5 Ounce Jar
PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
This PREGO pasta sauce has a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the Decent category.
It contains 2.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its overall score.
With 341.67mg of sodium per 100g, it is a moderate source of sodium.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen.
A typical serving of 125g provides 47.5 calories and 3.1g of added sugar.
Scores -2 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
341.67mg
15% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce receives a FoodScore of 45/100, categorizing it as Decent. This score reflects its nutritional profile, particularly its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food, which incurs a penalty. While the product is marketed as 'Lower Calorie,' it still contains added sugar, specifically 2.5g per 100g, which is a factor in its overall assessment. The ingredient list includes 'SUGAR' as the third ingredient, indicating its presence beyond naturally occurring sugars in tomatoes. The sauce provides 1.67g of protein and 0.8g of fiber per 100g, which are relatively low contributions to daily intake. Sodium content is 341.67mg per 100g, representing a moderate amount. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and potentially less added sugar, this PREGO sauce falls short in terms of nutrient density and processing level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in prego lower calorie pasta sauce,traditional italian spaghetti sauce, 23.5 ounce jar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Convenient Option for Meal Preparation
This PREGO pasta sauce offers convenience for quick meal assembly, making it a practical choice for busy individuals. Its ready-to-use format can help reduce cooking time, allowing for faster preparation of pasta dishes, casseroles, or other tomato-based meals. While it is a processed product, its accessibility can support consistent home cooking, which often provides more control over ingredients than dining out.
Low in Total Fat and Saturated Fat
The sauce is notable for being fat-free, with 0g of total fat and 0g of saturated fat per 100g. This can be a beneficial aspect for individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, as part of a heart-healthy diet. The absence of added oils in the base formulation allows consumers to control the type and amount of fat added to their overall meal.
Source of Potassium
This pasta sauce provides 300mg of potassium per 100g, contributing 6% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. While not a primary source, regular consumption of foods containing potassium can help meet daily requirements, especially when combined with other potassium-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce scores 45/100 (Decent), primarily due to its classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, but it can also be incorporated into various other recipes. A common serving size is around 1/2 cup (125g), which provides a moderate amount of calories and added sugar. It's a versatile ingredient for quick weeknight meals.
To enhance the nutritional value, combine this sauce with whole-wheat pasta and a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Consider using a smaller portion of sauce and supplementing with fresh herbs and spices to boost flavor without adding extra sodium or sugar.
Pair with a lean protein source such as grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal that promotes satiety.
Use this sauce as a base for homemade minestrone or vegetable soup, diluting it with broth and adding plenty of fiber-rich vegetables.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce includes 'SUGAR' as the third ingredient, indicating a notable amount of added sugar. While marketed as 'Lower Calorie,' individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce added sugars in their diet, should be mindful of this. The sodium content of 341.67mg per 100g is moderate; however, when combined with other salty ingredients in a meal, the total sodium intake can quickly accumulate. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities to ingredients like dehydrated onions or garlic extract should review the full list.
PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce scores 45/100, placing it in the Decent category. It is a processed food (NOVA 3) and contains added sugar. While it is low in fat and offers some potassium, it is not a significant source of fiber or many micronutrients. Its healthfulness depends on how it's incorporated into your overall diet.
How does PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta sauce, PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce may have a similar or slightly lower calorie count but might contain more added sugar. For instance, some brands like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce typically have no added sugar and a simpler ingredient list, often resulting in a higher FoodScore. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What does 'Lower Calorie' mean for this product?
The 'Lower Calorie' claim on PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce means it contains at least 25% fewer calories than the standard PREGO Traditional Italian Spaghetti Sauce. This is achieved through its specific formulation, which results in 38 calories per 100g. However, it still contains 2.5g of added sugar per 100g.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A typical serving size for PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce is 1/2 cup (125g). This portion provides approximately 47.5 calories, 3.1g of added sugar, and 427mg of sodium. Adjust your portion based on your individual dietary needs and the other components of your meal to manage calorie, sugar, and sodium intake effectively.
Can this sauce be used in recipes other than pasta?
Yes, PREGO Lower Calorie Pasta Sauce is versatile and can be used in various recipes beyond pasta. It works well as a base for chicken or eggplant parmesan, a sauce for homemade pizza, or an addition to stews and chili. Its flavor profile is designed to complement many Italian-inspired dishes.