RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and its moderate sodium content.
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
This sauce contains 0g of added sugar, aligning with recommendations to limit discretionary sugars.
A 1/2 cup serving contributes 336mg of sodium, which is 15% of the Daily Value.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it is less ideal than a homemade or minimally processed alternative.
Consider pairing with whole grains and vegetables to enhance the overall nutritional value of a meal.
Scores -2 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
336mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE earns a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects its formulation as a processed food, indicated by its NOVA 3 classification, which incurs a 5-point penalty. The ingredient list begins with Italian whole peeled tomatoes, followed by olive oil, onions, and basil, suggesting a focus on recognizable components. A key positive aspect is the absence of added sugars, which aligns with dietary guidelines to minimize intake of these ingredients. However, the sodium content is moderate at 336mg per 100g, contributing to the overall score. While it provides some protein (1.6g) and fiber (0.8g) per 100g, these amounts are not substantial enough to significantly boost the score. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically score higher due to its unprocessed nature and higher fiber content, RAO'S sauce is a more processed option, though it avoids some common pitfalls like high added sugar often found in other sauces.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rao's tomato basil sauce, tomato basil actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports a Balanced Diet with No Added Sugar
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This is a significant benefit, as many commercial sauces can be a hidden source of added sugars, which contribute to excess calorie intake without providing substantial nutrients. Choosing products without added sugar helps consumers adhere to dietary guidelines that recommend limiting these discretionary calories. This formulation makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their sugar intake or those looking to reduce their overall consumption of added sugars in their diet.
Source of Lycopene from Tomatoes
The primary ingredient in RAO'S sauce is Italian whole peeled tomatoes. Tomatoes are naturally rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. While the specific amount of lycopene is not listed, the presence of a significant amount of tomatoes suggests a contribution to dietary antioxidant intake. Antioxidants help protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals. Incorporating tomato-based products like this sauce can be a simple way to include more lycopene in your diet, especially when consumed as part of a varied eating pattern.
Contains Healthy Fats from Olive Oil
This sauce includes olive oil as one of its main ingredients. Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which are considered heart-healthy fats. MUFAs can help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol, when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The inclusion of olive oil contributes to the overall fat content of the sauce, providing a source of beneficial fats rather than less desirable saturated or trans fats, which are present in very low amounts.
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and its moderate sodium content.
How to eat it
Tomato basil sauce is a versatile pantry staple, commonly used as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizza, or an ingredient in casseroles and stews. A typical serving size is 1/2 cup, which can easily fit into a balanced meal.
Pair RAO'S sauce with whole-wheat pasta or zucchini noodles to increase fiber intake and improve satiety.
Enhance the nutritional value by adding plenty of non-starchy vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to your sauce.
Use this sauce as a base for homemade pizza, spreading it thinly over a whole-grain crust and topping with lean protein and vegetables.
To manage sodium intake, balance meals containing this sauce with other foods that are naturally low in sodium, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Things to keep in mind
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE is generally well-tolerated and does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. The ingredient list is relatively clean, featuring recognizable components such as Italian whole peeled tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs. Individuals sensitive to high sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be mindful of the 336mg of sodium per 100g serving and adjust other meal components accordingly. There are no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives listed, making it a straightforward option for most consumers. Overall, this product presents minimal specific cautions beyond general dietary considerations for sodium.
RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It is considered a processed food (NOVA 3) but stands out for having 0g of added sugar. Its moderate sodium content is a factor to consider, but it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE compare to other brands?
Compared to some other popular pasta sauces, such as Prego Traditional Italian Sauce, RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE generally has a more favorable nutritional profile due to its lack of added sugar. Many conventional sauces contain significant amounts of added sugars, which RAO'S avoids. However, its sodium content is comparable to many other brands in the category.
What is 'Italian whole peeled tomatoes' in the ingredient list?
The term 'Italian whole peeled tomatoes' refers to tomatoes that have been harvested, peeled, and typically packed in tomato puree with salt and basil leaf. This indicates a minimally processed tomato product as the primary ingredient. It's a common and generally well-regarded base for quality tomato sauces, contributing to the sauce's flavor and nutritional value.
What is a typical portion size for RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE?
A typical portion size for RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE is 1/2 cup (125g). This serving provides 64 calories, 1.6g of protein, and 336mg of sodium. It's important to measure your serving to manage calorie and sodium intake, especially if you are watching your portions or following specific dietary guidelines.
Can I use this sauce for meal prepping?
Yes, RAO'S TOMATO BASIL SAUCE is suitable for meal prepping. Its simple ingredient list and lack of added sugar make it a good base for various dishes. You can cook larger batches of pasta, chicken, or vegetable dishes with this sauce and store them in the refrigerator for several days, or freeze portions for longer storage.