CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite providing some protein.
FoodScore: 40/100 (Poor) due to its NOVA 4 classification.
Provides 3.27g of protein per 100g serving.
Contains 322.04mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily limits.
Higher in sodium and contains more processed ingredients than a home-cooked chicken noodle soup.
Can be a convenient option for a quick meal, especially when other ingredients are added.
Scores -7 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
3.27g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
322.04mg
14% 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
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup receives a FoodScore of 40/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While it provides 3.27g of protein per 100g, its fiber content is very low at 0.4g, and it contains 322.04mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a single serving. The ingredient list includes items like modified food starch, yeast extract, and disodium inosinate, which are common in ultra-processed products and contribute to its NOVA classification. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this CAMPBELL'S soup typically contains higher levels of sodium and a broader array of processed components, offering fewer whole food nutrients and less fiber.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's chunky classic chicken noodle soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This soup provides 3.27g of protein per 100g, primarily from white meat chicken and enriched egg noodles. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety. While not a high-protein food, it contributes to your daily protein intake, which can be beneficial when combined with other protein sources throughout the day to meet nutritional needs.
Convenient Meal Option
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup offers a convenient and quick meal solution, especially on busy days or when cooking from scratch is not feasible. Its ready-to-heat format makes it accessible for individuals seeking a warm meal with minimal preparation. This convenience can help ensure regular meal consumption, preventing skipped meals that might lead to less healthy choices later.
Hydration Support
As a soup, this product has a high water content, contributing to overall hydration. Adequate hydration is crucial for numerous bodily functions, including nutrient transport, temperature regulation, and joint lubrication. While plain water is the primary source of hydration, soups can be a complementary way to increase fluid intake, particularly during illness or colder weather.
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some protein.
How to eat it
CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is typically consumed as a standalone meal or a component of a larger meal. A common portion is one cup, heated on the stovetop or in the microwave. It's often chosen for its convenience and comforting qualities.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn during heating.
Pair with a side salad rich in diverse vegetables and a light vinaigrette to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread to add complex carbohydrates and fiber, making the meal more filling.
Be mindful of the sodium content; balance with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to stay within dietary guidelines.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals sensitive to sodium should be aware of the 322.04mg of sodium per 100g in this soup, which can contribute significantly to daily intake limits. The ingredient list includes soy protein concentrate and soy lecithin, indicating the presence of soy, which is a common allergen. The product also contains egg and wheat, as declared on the label, making it unsuitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives like modified food starch and disodium guanylate, which may be a concern for those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed ingredients.
Is CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup a healthy choice?
With a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor), this soup is considered an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). While it provides some protein, its high sodium content and low fiber mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a primary source of essential vitamins and minerals.
How does CAMPBELL'S Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle Soup compare to other brands?
Compared to a homemade chicken noodle soup, this CAMPBELL'S product generally has higher sodium levels and contains more processed ingredients. When compared to other prepared soups like Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup, nutritional profiles can vary, so checking the nutrition facts panel for specific nutrient levels like sodium and fiber is always recommended.
What is 'modified food starch' in the ingredients?
Modified food starch is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including this soup. It helps give the soup its desired texture and consistency. While generally recognized as safe, it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this soup?
The declared serving size is 1 cup. Adhering to this portion size helps manage sodium intake and calorie consumption. If consuming more than one serving, be mindful of how the sodium and calorie counts accumulate, especially if you are monitoring these nutrients.
Can this soup be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its moderate calorie count (48.98 calories per 100g) and protein content, this soup can fit into a weight management plan when consumed in appropriate portions. However, its low fiber and high sodium mean it should be balanced with other nutrient-dense, whole foods to ensure satiety and overall nutritional adequacy.