HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
This soup has a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the Decent category.
It provides 19% DV of Vitamin A per serving, a notable micronutrient contribution.
A serving contains 3.79g of added sugar, contributing to a penalty in its score.
Classified as NOVA 3, this product is more processed than a home-cooked black bean soup.
Consider this soup as a convenient option, but be mindful of its added sugar content.
Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
0.42g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.79g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
25mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.8g)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, categorizing it as Decent. This score reflects a balance of some nutritional contributions and several factors that detract from a higher rating. The product is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a 5-point penalty. While convenient, processed foods generally offer less nutritional density compared to their whole-ingredient counterparts. A significant factor impacting the score is the presence of added sugar, specifically 3.79g per 100g, listed as organic evaporated cane juice in the ingredients. This amount contributes a 2-point penalty. On the positive side, the soup receives a 2-point bonus for its micronutrient profile, primarily due to its Vitamin A content, which is 19% DV per 100g. Compared to a home-cooked black bean soup made with whole ingredients, this product contains less fiber and protein, and includes added sugars and stabilizers like organic acacia gum, which are not typically found in a homemade version.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley organic black bean soup actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC soup provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 19% of the Daily Value per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in supporting vision and immune function. Including foods that contribute to your daily Vitamin A intake can be beneficial for overall health, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The Vitamin A in this soup primarily comes from the tomato-based ingredients.
Convenient Meal Component
For individuals seeking a quick and easy meal solution, this soup offers convenience and accessibility. As a prepared product, it requires minimal preparation, making it a practical option for busy schedules or situations where cooking from scratch is not feasible. While not a complete meal on its own, it can serve as a base or a side dish, reducing the time spent on meal preparation. Its shelf-stable nature also contributes to its convenience.
Low in Saturated Fat
With only 0.42g of saturated fat per 100g, this black bean soup is a relatively low-fat option. Diets lower in saturated fat are generally recommended for cardiovascular health. The primary source of fat in this soup is organic unsalted butter, which contributes a small amount of saturated fat. For those monitoring their saturated fat intake, this product can fit into a balanced dietary pattern when consumed in appropriate portions.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
Prepared soups like HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup are typically consumed as a quick lunch or a light dinner. A common portion is one cup, often heated and eaten directly from the can or a bowl. It can also serve as a base for more elaborate meals.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase fiber and micronutrient content.
Pair with a source of lean protein, such as grilled chicken or a hard-boiled egg, to create a more satiating and balanced meal.
Be mindful of the added sugar content; if consuming regularly, balance with other low-sugar options throughout the day.
Use this soup as a base for a burrito bowl, adding brown rice, avocado, and fresh salsa for a more complete meal.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic unsalted butter, meaning it includes milk as an allergen. Individuals with dairy allergies should avoid this soup. The presence of organic evaporated cane juice means it contains added sugars, which individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consider in their overall daily intake. While the amount of added sugar per serving is not excessively high, consistent consumption of processed foods with added sugars can contribute to higher overall sugar intake. The use of organic acacia gum as a thickener is generally recognized as safe, but some sensitive individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort.
HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup scores 45/100, placing it in the Decent category. It offers some Vitamin A and is low in saturated fat, but it is a processed food (NOVA 3) and contains added sugar. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern and what other foods you consume.
How does HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup compare to other canned soups?
Compared to a generic canned black bean soup, HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC may offer similar convenience. However, specific nutritional profiles vary widely between brands. For example, a brand like Amy's Kitchen Organic Black Bean Soup might have a different sodium or fiber content. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons.
What is 'organic evaporated cane juice'?
Organic evaporated cane juice is a less processed form of sugar derived from sugarcane. Nutritionally, it functions as an added sugar, similar to table sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. Its 'organic' designation refers to the farming practices of the sugarcane, not a difference in its caloric or metabolic impact.
Can I eat this soup every day?
While this soup can be part of a balanced diet, consuming it daily means consistently taking in its 3.79g of added sugar and its NOVA 3 processed classification. For optimal nutrition, it's beneficial to vary your food choices and prioritize whole, unprocessed foods. Consider alternating with homemade soups or other low-sugar, high-fiber options.
How should I store leftover Health Valley Organic Black Bean Soup?
Once opened, any unused portion of HEALTH VALLEY ORGANIC Black Bean Soup should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. It is best consumed within 3-4 days to maintain quality and safety. Do not store the opened can in the refrigerator, as this can affect the soup's flavor and safety.