RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce scores 46/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its **moderate sodium content** and classification as a processed food, despite its beneficial vitamin A contribution.
This RAO'S sauce has a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent).
It provides a notable 39% DV of Vitamin A per 100g serving.
A 100g serving contains 354mg of sodium, contributing to a penalty in its score.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it differs from a generic whole-grain equivalent.
This sauce contains 0g of added sugar, making it a suitable choice for managing sugar intake.
Scores -1 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0.9g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
0.88g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
353.98mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (354.0mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 46
RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. The product receives a bonus of +2 for its micronutrient profile, specifically its contribution of Vitamin A, which is 39% of the Daily Value per 100g. However, penalties are applied due to its sodium content of 353.98mg per 100g, resulting in a -1 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 3, indicating a processed food, incurs a -5 penalty. The ingredient list, featuring Italian Tomatoes and Fresh Eggplant, suggests a base of whole foods, but the overall processing level impacts the score. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically score higher due to its unprocessed nature and higher fiber content, this sauce is a more processed option. It is notable for having 0g of added sugar, aligning with recommendations to limit added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rao's homemade roasted eggplant sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This RAO'S sauce is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 39% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A into your diet can support these bodily functions. The presence of Italian Tomatoes and Fresh Eggplant contributes to this vitamin content, offering a way to boost your intake through a prepared sauce.
No Added Sugar
One notable benefit of RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce is its absence of added sugar. This aligns with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting the intake of added sugars to support overall health and manage calorie intake. For individuals monitoring their sugar consumption, this product offers a flavorful option without contributing to daily added sugar limits. Choosing products with 0g added sugar can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with high sugar intake.
Contains Healthy Fats from Olive Oil
The inclusion of Pure Olive Oil in RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce contributes to its healthy fat profile. Olive oil is primarily composed of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. These fats can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease when consumed as part of a balanced diet. While the total fat content is 4.42g per 100g, the type of fat is a beneficial consideration.
RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce scores 46/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its moderate sodium content and classification as a processed food, despite its beneficial vitamin A contribution.
How to eat it
RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce is typically used as a topping for pasta, a base for casseroles, or a flavorful addition to chicken or vegetable dishes. A common portion size is 0.5 cup, which is 125g. It's a versatile product for adding flavor to meals.
Pair with whole-grain pasta or brown rice to increase fiber intake and create a more balanced meal.
Use as a base for a vegetable lasagna, incorporating extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost nutrient density.
To manage sodium intake, consider diluting the sauce with a small amount of unsalted tomato puree or water.
Serve alongside a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or fish to create a complete meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. While it contains whole ingredients like Italian Tomatoes and Fresh Eggplant, the processing involved means it is not as minimally processed as its raw components. The sodium content of 353.98mg per 100g is moderate, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should be mindful of portion sizes. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label that would typically require a warning. The ingredient list does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that are often a concern for some consumers. Overall, for most healthy adults, this sauce does not present significant cautions beyond mindful sodium consumption.
RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is a good source of Vitamin A and contains no added sugar. However, its moderate sodium content and classification as a processed food are factors to consider for overall dietary balance. It can be part of a balanced eating pattern when consumed in moderation.
How does RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to many conventional pasta sauces, RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce stands out for having 0g added sugar. Some brands, like Prego or Ragu, often include added sugars to enhance flavor. However, its sodium content is moderate, and other brands might offer lower sodium options. Always check the nutrition label for added sugar and sodium content when comparing.
What is 'Pure Olive Oil' in the ingredient list?
Pure Olive Oil is a blend of refined olive oil and virgin olive oils. It is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats. While not extra virgin olive oil, it still contributes beneficial fatty acids to the product. Its inclusion is a positive aspect for the fat profile of the sauce.
What is a recommended portion size for this sauce?
The recommended serving size for RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce is 0.5 cup (125g). This portion provides 62 calories, 0.9g of fiber, and 354mg of sodium. Adhering to the recommended serving size helps manage calorie and sodium intake, fitting it into your daily dietary goals.
Can this sauce be used for meal prepping?
Yes, RAO'S Homemade Roasted Eggplant Sauce can be a convenient component for meal prepping. Its flavor profile makes it suitable for various dishes that can be prepared in advance, such as pasta bakes, chicken dishes, or vegetable stews. Ensure proper storage in airtight containers to maintain freshness and safety for meal prepping.