SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY, TURKEY scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high sodium content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
SWANSON Turkey Gravy has a FoodScore of 39/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
This product contains 450mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food with many modified ingredients.
Compared to a home-cooked gravy, this SKU lacks beneficial micronutrients and fiber.
Use in small portions to manage sodium intake, especially when paired with other salty foods.
Scores -7 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
450mg
20% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (450mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY, TURKEY receives a FoodScore of 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this low score is its high sodium content, which is 450mg per 100g. This amount contributes a significant penalty to the overall score. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification reflects the extensive processing and the presence of several modified ingredients such as modified food starch, yeast extract, and flavoring. While the product contains no added sugar, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron, its caloric density is low at 42 calories per 100g. However, these low values do not offset the penalties from sodium and processing. A home-cooked turkey gravy made with whole ingredients would typically provide a more favorable nutrient profile, particularly with lower sodium and fewer processed components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swanson ready to serve turkey gravy, turkey actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY offers significant convenience for consumers. Its ready-to-serve format eliminates the need for preparation from scratch, which can be time-consuming. This makes it a practical option for busy individuals or during occasions when time for cooking is limited. While not a nutrient-dense food, its ease of use can help facilitate meal assembly, particularly for dishes that traditionally include gravy.
Low Calorie Contribution
This turkey gravy provides a relatively low caloric impact at 42 calories per 100g. For individuals monitoring their calorie intake, incorporating a small serving of this gravy may not significantly increase the overall calorie count of a meal. This can be a consideration for those looking to add flavor without a substantial energy contribution, provided other nutritional aspects are managed.
Source of Flavor Enhancement
The primary role of SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY is to enhance the flavor of meals. Its savory profile, derived from ingredients like turkey stock and flavoring, can make plain dishes more palatable. For consumers seeking to add a traditional gravy taste to poultry or mashed potatoes, this product serves that purpose. It can contribute to the enjoyment of a meal, which is an aspect of dietary satisfaction.
SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY, TURKEY scores 39/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Turkey gravy is typically used as a condiment or sauce, often served with roasted poultry, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. A common portion size is 1/4 cup. Due to its high sodium content, it's important to consider how it fits into your overall meal.
Pair with low-sodium main dishes to help balance the overall sodium intake of your meal.
Use in smaller portions than suggested if you are sensitive to sodium or have dietary restrictions.
Consider diluting with a low-sodium broth to reduce the intensity of flavor and sodium per serving.
Integrate into meals that feature plenty of vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients that the gravy lacks.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content in SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY, which is 450mg per 100g. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes modified food starch and yeast extract, which are common in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of such ingredients. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities to any listed ingredient, such as celery extract, should review the full list carefully.
SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY scores 39/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. This is mainly due to its high sodium content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is low in calories, it offers minimal beneficial nutrients like fiber, vitamins, or minerals.
How does SWANSON Turkey Gravy compare to other brands?
Compared to a homemade turkey gravy, SWANSON Turkey Gravy is significantly higher in sodium and contains more processed ingredients. For example, a homemade gravy would typically allow for control over sodium levels and the use of whole, unprocessed ingredients. Other ready-to-serve gravies, like those from Heinz or Campbell's, often have similar nutritional profiles, emphasizing convenience over nutrient density.
What is 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier. In SWANSON Turkey Gravy, it helps achieve the desired texture and consistency. It is derived from starches that have been chemically or physically altered to improve their functional properties in food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this gravy?
The declared serving size for SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY is 1/4 cup. Given its high sodium content, sticking to this portion size or even less is advisable, especially if you are consuming other salty foods in the same meal. Moderation is key to managing overall sodium intake.
Can I use this gravy if I'm trying to reduce my calorie intake?
Yes, SWANSON READY TO SERVE TURKEY GRAVY is relatively low in calories at 42 calories per 100g. If your primary goal is calorie reduction, a small portion of this gravy can be incorporated without significantly impacting your total calorie count. However, remember to also consider its sodium content and lack of other beneficial nutrients.