RAO'S HOMEMADE TOMATOES, MUSHROOMS, ONIONS & PEPPERS GARDEN VEGETABLE SAUCE scores 48/100, primarily driven by its notable sodium content.
RAO'S HOMEMADE Garden Vegetable Sauce has a FoodScore of 48/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A strength is its high Vitamin A (74% DV) and Vitamin C (18% DV) content per 100g serving.
The primary concern is the sodium content, at 371.68mg per 100g.
This processed (NOVA 3) sauce contains 0g of added sugar, which is favorable compared to many similar products.
Consider portion control due to the sodium level, especially if consumed regularly.
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
371.68mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (371.7mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 48
RAO'S HOMEMADE TOMATOES, MUSHROOMS, ONIONS & PEPPERS GARDEN VEGETABLE SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 48 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. The product earns a bonus of +4 for its micronutrient profile, specifically for providing significant amounts of Vitamin A (74% DV) and Vitamin C (18% DV) per 100g. However, it incurs penalties for its sodium content, with 371.68mg per 100g contributing a -1 penalty. Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 product, it is considered processed, resulting in a -5 penalty. The ingredient list, featuring Italian tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, and peppers, along with olive oil, indicates a base of whole food components. There is no added sugar, which is a positive aspect, differentiating it from many other sauces in the category. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which typically provides more fiber and complex carbohydrates, this sauce serves a different dietary role, primarily as a flavor enhancer for meals. The total fat content is 4.42g per 100g, with only 0.44g as saturated fat, which is a moderate amount.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rao's homemade tomatoes, mushrooms, onions & peppers garden vegetable sauce, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions & peppers actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Vitamins A and C
This RAO'S HOMEMADE sauce is a good source of both Vitamin A and Vitamin C. A 100g serving provides 74% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A and 18% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production. Incorporating this sauce into meals can contribute to meeting daily intake recommendations for these essential vitamins, primarily due to the Italian tomatoes and peppers.
Contains Beneficial Vegetables
RAO'S HOMEMADE TOMATOES, MUSHROOMS, ONIONS & PEPPERS GARDEN VEGETABLE SAUCE includes a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, and both red and green peppers. These ingredients contribute to the sauce's nutrient density, providing dietary fiber (0.9g per 100g) and various phytonutrients. Consuming a diet rich in vegetables is associated with numerous health benefits, including supporting digestive health and providing a range of antioxidants. The presence of these vegetables enhances the overall nutritional value of the product.
No Added Sugar
A notable benefit of this sauce is the absence of added sugar in its formulation. Many commercially prepared sauces can contain significant amounts of added sugars, which contribute to excess calorie intake without providing substantial nutrients. The fact that RAO'S HOMEMADE sauce contains 0g of added sugar per 100g makes it a suitable option for individuals looking to reduce their intake of added sugars as part of a balanced diet. This formulation choice aligns with dietary guidelines recommending limiting discretionary sugars.
RAO'S HOMEMADE TOMATOES, MUSHROOMS, ONIONS & PEPPERS GARDEN VEGETABLE SAUCE scores 48/100, primarily driven by its notable sodium content.
How to eat it
This garden vegetable sauce is typically used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or an ingredient in various cooked meals. A common serving size is 1/2 cup, which can easily be incorporated into a balanced meal. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other salty foods.
Pair with whole-grain pasta or brown rice to increase fiber content and create a more balanced meal.
Use as a base for homemade pizza with plenty of fresh vegetables and lean protein to enhance nutrient density.
Incorporate into stews or casseroles to add flavor and a serving of vegetables; consider diluting slightly with water or low-sodium broth to manage sodium intake.
Serve with lean protein sources like chicken breast or fish to create a complete meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains 371.68mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney conditions, should be mindful of portion sizes and consider balancing it with lower-sodium foods throughout the day. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily consisting of vegetables and olive oil, with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. There are no common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, or nuts explicitly listed as ingredients. The presence of white wine is noted, but the alcohol content would be negligible after cooking. Overall, for most healthy individuals, this sauce presents no significant specific cautions beyond general advice for sodium moderation.
RAO'S HOMEMADE Garden Vegetable Sauce has a FoodScore of 48/100, indicating it's a decent choice. It offers good amounts of Vitamin A and C and contains no added sugar. However, its sodium content (371.68mg per 100g) is something to consider, especially if you are monitoring your intake. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does RAO'S HOMEMADE compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to many other branded pasta sauces, RAO'S HOMEMADE stands out for having 0g of added sugar per 100g, which is a significant advantage over brands like Prego or Ragu that often include added sweeteners. Its sodium content is moderate compared to some competitors, but still warrants attention. The use of olive oil and a simple ingredient list also sets it apart.
Does this sauce contain any artificial ingredients?
Based on the ingredient list provided, RAO'S HOMEMADE TOMATOES, MUSHROOMS, ONIONS & PEPPERS GARDEN VEGETABLE SAUCE does not appear to contain any artificial ingredients. The ingredients are primarily whole vegetables, olive oil, and common seasonings like garlic, salt, and fresh basil. This aligns with a more natural product profile.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A reasonable portion size for this sauce is 1/2 cup (125g), as indicated on the label. This amount contributes to your daily vegetable intake and provides a good flavor base for meals. When considering your overall daily sodium intake, it's important to account for this portion and adjust other salty foods accordingly to stay within recommended limits.
Can this sauce be used in a low-carb diet?
Yes, this sauce can generally fit into a low-carb diet. With only 62.04 calories and 0.9g of fiber per 100g, its net carbohydrate content would be relatively low. The primary ingredients are vegetables, which are naturally lower in carbohydrates compared to grain-based sauces. Always check the full nutritional panel if you are following a very strict low-carb regimen.