SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are the primary factors influencing this score.
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor).
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A single serving (1 cup) contributes 332.92mg of sodium, which is 14% of the Daily Value.
This broth provides 23% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
Consider diluting with water or using in small quantities to manage sodium intake.
Scores -4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.42g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
332.92mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat per 100g, its sodium content is relatively high at 332.92mg per 100g. This contributes to the overall lower score, especially when considering a typical serving size. The ingredient list includes soy lecithin and yeast extract, common in processed foods, which further aligns with its NOVA 4 classification. On the positive side, it provides 23% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g, offering a minor bonus. Compared to a home-cooked broth made with whole ingredients, this SWANSON product contains more processed components and a higher sodium level, which impacts its nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swanson broth, thai ginger actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER provides 23% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in maintaining healthy vision and supporting immune function. While not a primary source, incorporating this broth can contribute to your daily intake, especially when used in recipes that might otherwise lack this micronutrient. It's a convenient way to add a small boost of this vitamin to your meals.
Low Calorie Base for Meals
With only 12 calories per 100g, this broth offers a low-calorie liquid base for various dishes. It can be used to add flavor and moisture to stir-fries, soups, or stews without significantly increasing the caloric density of the meal. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their calorie intake, allowing for flavorful cooking without adding substantial energy. It helps create a sense of fullness without excess calories.
Flavor Enhancement for Cooking
This broth can serve as a flavorful liquid component in cooking, particularly for those seeking a Thai-inspired taste profile. Its blend of ginger, lemongrass, and cilantro extracts can enhance the taste of homemade dishes, making them more appealing. Using a seasoned broth like this can reduce the need for additional salt or other high-calorie flavorings, contributing to a more balanced meal while still delivering a rich culinary experience.
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are the primary factors influencing this score.
How to eat it
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER is typically used as a flavorful base for cooking, especially in Asian-inspired dishes. Consumers often incorporate it into soups, stir-fries, or as a liquid for cooking grains. A common serving size is 1 cup, which can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake.
To manage sodium, consider diluting the broth with an equal part of water when using it as a soup base.
Use this broth to flavor rice or quinoa during cooking, adding a subtle Thai ginger note to your grains.
Pair with fresh vegetables and lean protein (like chicken or tofu) to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
For a quick meal, heat the broth and add leftover cooked chicken, rice noodles, and fresh herbs for a simple, flavorful soup.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be mindful of the 332.92mg of sodium per 100g in SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER. While not excessively high for a single serving, regular consumption of high-sodium foods can contribute to exceeding daily recommendations. The ingredient list includes soybeans and wheat as part of the soy sauce, indicating potential allergens for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients. The presence of yeast extract and 'natural flavors' might be a consideration for those with specific dietary preferences or sensitivities to flavor enhancers. Overall, for most healthy individuals, this product does not present significant unique cautions beyond its sodium content and common allergens.
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is low in calories and fat, and provides some Vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content contribute to a lower overall nutritional score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and alongside whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER compare to other broths?
Compared to a homemade broth made with whole ingredients, SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER contains more processed components and a higher sodium level. When compared to other packaged broths like Pacific Foods Organic Vegetable Broth, the nutritional profile can vary, particularly in sodium content and the presence of specific additives. Always check the nutrition label and ingredient list for direct comparisons.
What is 'soy lecithin' in the ingredient list?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, commonly used in processed foods to help blend ingredients that wouldn't normally mix, such as oil and water. In this broth, it likely contributes to the texture and stability of the product. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption.
How much of this broth can I consume daily?
Given its sodium content of 332.92mg per 100g, consuming multiple servings daily could contribute significantly to your total daily sodium intake. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting sodium to 2,300mg per day for most adults. Moderation is key, especially if you consume other high-sodium foods throughout the day.
Can I use this broth for a low-sodium diet?
SWANSON BROTH, THAI GINGER is not considered a low-sodium product. For individuals on a low-sodium diet, it would be more appropriate to choose a broth specifically labeled 'low sodium' or 'reduced sodium,' or to make broth from scratch using fresh ingredients to control sodium levels.