FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainSIGNATURE SELECT· 1/2 cup

SIGNATURE SELECT MARINARA TRADITIONAL PASTA SAUCE, MARINARA

SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and its sodium content, despite providing some fiber.

  • SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce has a FoodScore of 46/100.
  • It provides 2.4g of fiber per 100g serving.
  • A 100g serving contains 384mg of sodium, contributing to the penalty score.
  • This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), impacting its overall score.
  • Consider portion control due to the sodium content, especially if monitoring intake.
  • Scores -1 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.6g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
384mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
What holds it back
Sodium (384mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 46

SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -5 points. While the product does offer a positive contribution from its fiber content, providing 2.4g per 100g serving, this only adds +2 points to the score. A notable detractor is the sodium content, at 384mg per 100g, which results in a -1 point penalty. The ingredient list includes sugar as the second ingredient, indicating a source of added sugar, though the amount is 1.6g per 100g. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this marinara sauce lacks the complex carbohydrates and higher fiber typically found in less processed grain products, and its sodium level is a point of consideration.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in signature select marinara traditional pasta sauce, marinara actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This marinara sauce provides 2.4g of fiber per 100g serving. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness, which may aid in weight management. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can support regular bowel movements and help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. While not a primary fiber source, this contribution can complement other fiber-rich components of a meal.

Contains Potassium

SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce contains 376mg of potassium per 100g, which is 8% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. It also supports proper nerve function and muscle contractions. Incorporating foods with potassium can contribute to overall cardiovascular health as part of a balanced diet.

Versatile Base for Meals

As a tomato-based sauce, this product can serve as a convenient foundation for various meals. Tomatoes naturally contain lycopene, an antioxidant, though its bioavailability can vary. Using this sauce allows for quick meal preparation, encouraging the consumption of vegetables when paired with other ingredients. It can be a practical option for adding flavor and moisture to dishes like pasta, lasagna, or chicken parmesan, helping to incorporate more produce into your diet.

How to eat it

Marinara sauce is a staple in many US households, commonly used as a base for pasta dishes, a dipping sauce, or an ingredient in casseroles. A typical serving is 1/2 cup, which is 125g. Be mindful of the sodium content when combining with other salty ingredients.

To enhance the nutritional profile, mix with extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when heating.
Pair with whole-grain pasta or zoodles to increase fiber intake and reduce refined carbohydrate consumption.
Use as a base for homemade pizza with plenty of vegetable toppings to create a more balanced meal.
Consider diluting with a small amount of unsalted tomato puree or water to reduce the sodium concentration per serving.
Portion control is key; measure out the 1/2 cup serving to manage sodium and added sugar intake effectively.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it has undergone significant processing. The ingredient list includes sugar as the second ingredient, which contributes to the added sugar content, although the amount is relatively low at 1.6g per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be aware of the 384mg of sodium per 100g serving. While generally safe for consumption, those with sensitivities to citric acid or specific spices should review the ingredient list carefully. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list.

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Reader questions
Is SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce healthy?
SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers some fiber and potassium, but its classification as a processed food (NOVA 3) and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does SIGNATURE SELECT compare to other marinara sauces?
Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this SIGNATURE SELECT marinara sauce is more processed and may contain more sodium. For instance, a brand like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce often has a lower added sugar content and a simpler ingredient list, which might result in a higher FoodScore. Always check the nutrition facts and ingredient list of specific brands for direct comparison.
What is the role of 'sugar' in this marinara sauce?
Sugar is listed as the second ingredient in SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce. It is added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor profile. While the amount of added sugar is 1.6g per 100g, it's important to be mindful of total added sugar intake from all food sources throughout the day.
What is a recommended portion size for this sauce?
The recommended serving size for SIGNATURE SELECT Marinara Traditional Pasta Sauce is 1/2 cup (125g). Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and added sugars. When serving, consider using measuring cups to ensure accurate portioning, especially if you are monitoring specific nutrient intakes.
Can this sauce be used for meal prepping?
Yes, this marinara sauce can be a convenient component for meal prepping. It can be cooked into larger batches of pasta dishes, stews, or casseroles and then portioned out for the week. Ensure proper refrigeration and storage to maintain freshness and safety of prepared meals. Its versatility makes it suitable for various meal prep recipes.

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