PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE, SPICY RED PEPPER
PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE scores 48/100, a Decent rating. Its notable sodium content and classification as a processed food are key factors in its score, despite a beneficial amount of Vitamin A.
This PREGO sauce received a FoodScore of 48/100, categorized as Decent.
A serving provides 46% DV of Vitamin A, a nutritional highlight.
The sodium content is 400mg per 100g, contributing to a penalty.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a moderate level of processing.
Consider portion control due to sodium, especially when pairing with other salty foods.
Scores +1 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
0g
0% 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
Sodium (400mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 48
PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE achieves a FoodScore of 48 out of 100, placing it in the Decent category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and certain nutritional drawbacks. The product receives a bonus of +2 points for its fiber content, providing 2.5g per 100g. An additional +2 points are awarded for its micronutrient profile, specifically its high Vitamin A content, which is 46% DV per 100g. However, the sauce incurs a penalty of -1 point due to its sodium level of 400mg per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food results in a significant -5 point penalty. The ingredient list includes canola oil and sugar, which are common in processed sauces. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and potentially less sodium, this PREGO sauce presents a different nutritional profile, leaning towards convenience with some trade-offs.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in prego spicy red pepper italian sauce, spicy red pepper actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This PREGO sauce is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 46% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A into your diet can contribute to overall wellness. The presence of tomato puree and diced tomatoes in tomato juice are the primary contributors to this nutrient.
Contains Dietary Fiber
PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE offers 2.5g of fiber per 100g serving. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for appetite management. While not exceptionally high, this amount of fiber can contribute to your daily intake, especially when paired with other fiber-rich foods like whole-grain pasta or vegetables. The fiber primarily comes from the tomato components.
Provides Antioxidants from Tomatoes
The primary ingredients in this sauce are tomato puree and diced tomatoes, which are naturally rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Antioxidants help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. While processing can affect nutrient content, tomatoes generally retain a significant portion of their beneficial compounds. Consuming tomato-based products can contribute to your intake of these protective plant compounds.
PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE scores 48/100, a Decent rating. Its notable sodium content and classification as a processed food are key factors in its score, despite a beneficial amount of Vitamin A.
How to eat it
PREGO SPICY RED PEPPER ITALIAN SAUCE is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or an ingredient in casseroles. A common serving size is 1/2 cup, which is 125g. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially when combining with other ingredients that may also contribute to sodium intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this sauce with whole-wheat pasta and a generous amount of sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Use this sauce as a base for a homemade shakshuka, adding eggs and more vegetables for a balanced meal.
Consider diluting the sauce with a small amount of unsalted tomato paste or crushed tomatoes to potentially reduce the sodium per serving.
When using as a pizza sauce, load up on fresh vegetable toppings to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
This PREGO sauce contains 400mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should be mindful of portion sizes and consider the sodium content of other meal components. The ingredient list includes canola oil, which is a common vegetable oil. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals prefer to limit highly processed oils. There are no declared major allergens on the label, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list. The product is not suitable for individuals seeking a low-sodium diet without careful portion control.
PREGO Spicy Red Pepper Italian Sauce scores 48/100, placing it in the Decent category. It offers some beneficial nutrients like Vitamin A and fiber from tomatoes. However, its sodium content of 400mg per 100g and its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food are factors to consider for overall dietary balance. It can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does PREGO compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to a generic homemade tomato sauce, PREGO Spicy Red Pepper Italian Sauce may have a higher sodium content and be more processed. For instance, brands like Rao's Homemade often feature simpler ingredient lists and can sometimes have lower sodium, though this varies by specific SKU. When evaluating different pasta sauces, it's important to check the nutrition label for sodium, added sugar, and fiber content.
Does this sauce contain added sugar?
The ingredient list for PREGO Spicy Red Pepper Italian Sauce includes 'sugar'. However, the nutrition facts panel states 0g of added sugar per 100g. This indicates that any sugar present is likely in amounts too small to be declared as 'added sugar' per serving according to FDA regulations, or the sugar listed is primarily from the naturally occurring sugars in the tomatoes.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A reasonable portion size for PREGO Spicy Red Pepper Italian Sauce is 1/2 cup (125g), as indicated on the label. This amount contributes 500mg of sodium to your meal. To manage sodium intake, consider using slightly less sauce or balancing it with low-sodium ingredients in the rest of your dish. Always adjust based on your individual dietary needs and preferences.
Can I use this sauce in a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Based on the ingredient list provided (Tomato Puree, Diced Tomatoes in Tomato Juice, Canola Oil, Onions, Garlic, Sugar, Salt, Citric Acid, Basil, Spices, Red Pepper), PREGO Spicy Red Pepper Italian Sauce appears to be suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. It does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. Always check the most current label for any changes in formulation if dietary restrictions are critical.