Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Hunt's Tomato Paste achieves a FoodScore of 69/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely attributed to its nutrient density and minimal processing. The product receives significant bonuses for its fiber content, providing 6.09g per 100g, which is a notable amount for a condiment. It also gains points for its micronutrient profile, specifically its contributions of potassium (939.39mg, 20% DV per 100g) and iron (3.03mg, 17% DV per 100g). As a NOVA class 2 food, it is categorized as a processed culinary ingredient, indicating it undergoes less processing than many other packaged foods, which contributes an additional bonus. The ingredient list is straightforward, containing only Tomato Paste and Citric Acid, with no added sugars, fats, or artificial ingredients that would typically incur penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded tomato paste, Hunt's performs similarly due to its simple formulation and focus on the core ingredient.
What the nutrients in hunt's tomato paste actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Hunt's Tomato Paste is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 6.09g per 100g. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, aiding in regular bowel movements and contributing to satiety. Incorporating fiber-rich foods like tomato paste into your diet can help support overall gut health and may reduce the risk of certain digestive issues. This product's fiber content comes directly from the concentrated tomatoes.
This product provides meaningful amounts of potassium and iron. Per 100g, it offers 939.39mg of potassium (20% DV) and 3.03mg of iron (17% DV). Potassium is vital for maintaining fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. Including sources of these minerals, such as Hunt's Tomato Paste, can help meet daily nutritional requirements.
As a NOVA class 2 food, Hunt's Tomato Paste is considered a processed culinary ingredient. This classification means it is derived directly from whole foods (tomatoes) with minimal alterations, primarily concentrating the product and adding a preservative like Citric Acid. Choosing less processed ingredients can be a beneficial strategy for building a diet rich in whole foods and reducing intake of ultra-processed items often associated with less favorable health outcomes.
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes used to deepen the flavor and thicken sauces, stews, and soups. A typical serving is 1-2 tablespoons, which provides a rich umami base without significantly altering the texture of a dish. It's commonly added early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop.
Hunt's Tomato Paste is generally considered safe for most consumers. The ingredient list is short and contains no common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. The presence of Citric Acid is as a natural preservative and is not typically associated with adverse effects for the general population. Individuals with extreme sensitivities to acidic foods might want to consume it in moderation, but this is rare. There are no added sugars or high sodium levels that would be a concern for specific populations like those managing diabetes or hypertension. Overall, this product presents minimal cautions for most dietary needs.