PROGRESSO CREAMY POTATO SOUP WITH BACON & CHEESE, LIGHT, THICK & CREAMY scores 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This PROGRESSO soup has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor).
It contains 2.4g of fiber per 100g, contributing a minor bonus to its score.
A significant concern is its 279.92mg of sodium per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is considered ultra-processed.
Consider this soup as an occasional convenience food rather than a dietary staple.
Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
0.79g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.55g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
279.92mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
PROGRESSO CREAMY POTATO SOUP WITH BACON & CHEESE, LIGHT, THICK & CREAMY receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), which incurs a significant -10 point penalty. While it does offer a modest 2.4g of fiber per 100g, earning a +2 bonus, this is not enough to offset other nutritional considerations. The soup contains 279.92mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount, especially for a single serving, and contributes to its lower score. Additionally, the ingredient list includes modified food starch, polydextrose, and maltodextrin, which are common in processed foods and contribute to the NOVA 4 classification. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be less processed and offer more beneficial micronutrients like calcium and vitamin D, this PROGRESSO soup provides minimal micronutrient content, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and various vitamins. The 'LIGHT' claim on the packaging likely refers to its calorie content (39.02 calories per 100g) and total fat (1.18g per 100g), but this does not negate its overall processing level or sodium content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in progresso creamy potato soup with bacon & cheese, light, thick & creamy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Fiber
This PROGRESSO soup offers 2.4g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a positive attribute for a processed soup. Including fiber in your diet can support regular bowel movements and overall gut function. To maximize fiber intake, consider pairing this soup with other fiber-rich foods.
Convenient Meal Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy meal solution, this soup provides a convenient option. Its ready-to-heat format makes it suitable for busy schedules or situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. While not a substitute for whole, unprocessed foods, it can serve as a practical choice when time is limited. The 'LIGHT' designation may appeal to those monitoring calorie intake, offering a lower-calorie alternative to some other creamy soups.
Lower in Saturated Fat
This soup is relatively low in saturated fat, containing 0.39g per 100g. Managing saturated fat intake is a key aspect of a heart-healthy diet. For individuals looking to reduce their consumption of saturated fats, this product can fit into that dietary goal. The 'LIGHT' claim aligns with this lower fat content, making it a suitable choice for those mindful of their fat intake. However, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile.
PROGRESSO CREAMY POTATO SOUP WITH BACON & CHEESE, LIGHT, THICK & CREAMY scores 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
This soup is typically consumed as a quick lunch or light dinner. A common portion is one cup, which is the serving size. It's often heated on the stovetop or in a microwave. A common pitfall is relying on it as a primary source of nutrients without adding other components to the meal.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this soup with a side salad rich in vegetables and a lean protein source.
Consider using half a serving of the soup and supplementing with homemade broth and extra vegetables to reduce sodium.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, be mindful of the 279.92mg per 100g and adjust other meals accordingly.
Use this soup as a base and add fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots to boost micronutrient content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to limit. It is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as modified food starch and polydextrose. The ingredient list also includes artificial color, which some consumers prefer to avoid. Allergens present include milk and soy, which are explicitly listed in ingredients like 'Cheddar Cheese' and 'Soy Protein Concentrate'. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution. Due to its sodium content, those managing blood pressure should be mindful of portion sizes and overall daily sodium intake.
PROGRESSO CREAMY POTATO SOUP WITH BACON & CHEESE, LIGHT, THICK & CREAMY scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers some fiber and is lower in saturated fat, it is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains a notable amount of sodium. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and complemented with whole foods.
How does PROGRESSO soup compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic homemade potato soup, this PROGRESSO soup is significantly more processed and higher in sodium. For instance, a homemade soup would typically use whole potatoes and fresh ingredients, avoiding components like modified food starch or artificial colors. When compared to other canned soups like Campbell's Chunky, the nutritional profile can vary, so checking specific labels is always recommended.
What does 'LIGHT' mean on the label?
The 'LIGHT' claim on PROGRESSO CREAMY POTATO SOUP WITH BACON & CHEESE, LIGHT, THICK & CREAMY typically indicates that the product has a reduced amount of calories, fat, or sodium compared to the regular version of the same product. In this case, it is lower in calories (39.02 per 100g) and total fat (1.18g per 100g), which aligns with the claim.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size for this soup is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage intake of sodium and calories. If you are looking to reduce your intake of processed ingredients, consider using a smaller portion and supplementing with fresh, unprocessed ingredients.
Does this soup contain real bacon and cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies 'Cooked Bacon' and 'Cheddar Cheese (Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes)'. However, it also includes 'Natural Flavor' and 'Artificial Color', which contribute to the overall ultra-processed nature of the product. The amount of actual bacon and cheese may be small, as indicated by their position lower on the ingredient list.