S&W Stewed Tomatoes scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar. While convenient, it contains more sodium and less fiber than a home-cooked alternative.
S&W Stewed Tomatoes received a FoodScore of 45/100 (Decent).
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed) due to its formulation.
A 1/2 cup serving contains 2.4g of added sugar and 206.35mg of sodium.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this SKU has higher sodium and lower fiber.
It can be a convenient base for dishes like soups, stews, or chili.
Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
0.79g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.4g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
206.35mg
9% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
S&W Stewed Tomatoes earns a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. This classification incurs a 5-point penalty, reflecting the general nutritional impact of processing. While the ingredient list begins with whole tomatoes, the inclusion of sugar and sea salt contributes to its processed nature. Per 100g, this product contains 2.4g of added sugar, which is a moderate amount but still contributes to the overall sugar intake. The sodium content is 206.35mg per 100g, which is notable, especially when compared to a home-cooked version made with fresh tomatoes and no added salt. The fiber content is 0.8g per 100g, which is relatively low. Micronutrient contributions are modest, with 5% DV for potassium and 4% DV for iron per 100g. Overall, while it offers some convenience, the added sugar and sodium levels, combined with its processed classification, prevent a higher score when compared to a baseline of home-cooked stewed tomatoes using whole ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in s&w stewed tomatoes actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Potassium
S&W Stewed Tomatoes provides 215.08mg of potassium per 100g, contributing 5% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. Including foods rich in potassium as part of a balanced diet can support overall cardiovascular health. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily potassium intake.
Convenient Base for Meals
This product offers a convenient and ready-to-use base for various dishes. Tomatoes are a staple in many cuisines, and having them pre-chopped and seasoned can save preparation time. The inclusion of vegetables like onions, celery, and green bell peppers, along with spices such as garlic powder and basil, means less chopping and seasoning is required when preparing meals like soups, stews, or pasta sauces. This can encourage home cooking.
Low in Total Fat
S&W Stewed Tomatoes contains 0g of total fat per 100g, including 0g of saturated and trans fats. This makes it a fat-free option for incorporating tomatoes into your diet. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, this product can be a suitable choice. It allows for the addition of healthy fats from other ingredients in a meal, such as olive oil or avocado.
S&W Stewed Tomatoes scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar. While convenient, it contains more sodium and less fiber than a home-cooked alternative.
How to eat it
Stewed tomatoes are commonly used as a base or an ingredient in cooked dishes rather than eaten plain. A typical serving is 1/2 cup, often incorporated into larger recipes. They are a convenient way to add tomato flavor and texture to meals, but it's important to consider the added sodium and sugar when combining with other ingredients.
Use S&W Stewed Tomatoes as a base for homemade chili or vegetable soup, adding extra fresh vegetables and lean protein to enhance nutrient density.
Incorporate into pasta sauces; consider diluting with plain crushed tomatoes or water to reduce the overall sodium concentration per serving.
Combine with eggs for a quick shakshuka-style breakfast or brunch, pairing with whole-grain toast for added fiber.
For a side dish, simmer with additional herbs and a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavor and balance the inherent sweetness.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains added sugar and sea salt, which contribute to its overall sodium and sugar content. Individuals monitoring their intake of these nutrients, especially those with hypertension or diabetes, should account for these amounts when consuming S&W Stewed Tomatoes. The ingredient list includes calcium chloride, which is a firming agent commonly used in canned vegetables and is generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label. The processing (NOVA 3) means it is not a whole, unprocessed food, and while generally safe for consumption, it is less nutrient-dense than fresh tomatoes.
S&W Stewed Tomatoes scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. While it provides some potassium and is fat-free, it is classified as processed (NOVA 3) and contains 2.4g of added sugar and 206.35mg of sodium per 100g. It can be part of a balanced diet, but its nutritional profile is not as favorable as fresh or plain canned tomatoes.
How does S&W Stewed Tomatoes compare to other brands like Hunt's?
Compared to many other brands of stewed tomatoes, such as Hunt's, S&W Stewed Tomatoes will have a similar nutritional profile due to the nature of the product. Differences often lie in the specific seasoning blends, amount of added sugar, and sodium levels. Always check the Nutrition Facts label and ingredient list for direct comparisons, as formulations can vary.
What is calcium chloride in S&W Stewed Tomatoes?
Calcium chloride is a firming agent added to canned tomatoes. It helps the tomatoes maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming too soft during the canning process. It is a common food additive and is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a reasonable portion size for S&W Stewed Tomatoes?
The declared serving size is 1/2 cup (121g). This portion provides 39 calories, 2.9g of added sugar, and 250mg of sodium. When incorporating into meals, consider the total sodium and sugar from all ingredients to ensure it aligns with your dietary goals. It's often used as an ingredient rather than a standalone dish.
Can I use S&W Stewed Tomatoes in recipes that call for fresh tomatoes?
Yes, S&W Stewed Tomatoes can often be substituted for fresh tomatoes in cooked recipes, especially those where the tomatoes will be simmered or blended. However, be mindful of the added seasonings, sugar, and salt in this product. You may need to adjust other ingredients in your recipe to account for these flavors and sodium levels, particularly if the recipe calls for unsalted or fresh tomatoes.