Reading the fine print on tomato soup labels reveals hidden sugar

When examining the label of this Organic Light In Sodium Creamy Garden Tomato Soup, the focus on filtered water and organic tomato paste suggests a clean foundation. The texture likely leans toward a silky consistency thanks to the inclusion of organic rice flour and expeller-pressed canola oil, which may provide a smooth mouthfeel without heavy dairy. At 4g of sugar per 100g, it remains relatively moderate, though the use of organic rice syrup as a sweetener is a detail to note for those monitoring glycemic impact. This is a reliable choice to keep in an office desk drawer for a quick, controlled lunch. However, the trade-off is the inclusion of canola oil, which some label-conscious consumers might prefer to avoid in favor of fruit-based oils.

This tomato soup presents a higher sugar content at 6g per 100g, which may result in a noticeably sweeter profile that appeals to those who find traditional tomato bases too acidic. While the ingredient list is currently updating, the score of 9.4 suggests a formulation that balances flavor and convenience. The higher sugar levels might provide a quick energy boost, making it a suitable option for a late-night study session when a warm, comforting liquid is needed. The primary trade-off here is the lack of immediate ingredient transparency during the update phase, which requires a skeptical buyer to double-check the physical label for potential allergens or thickeners once the can is in hand.

Campbell's Tomato Soup stands out on paper with 0g of sugar per 100g, a rare find in the canned soup aisle. However, a meticulous look at the ingredients reveals High Fructose Corn Syrup is present, which suggests the sugar content is low enough per serving to round down, yet still utilizes processed sweeteners. The texture is likely thickened by wheat flour, providing that classic, smooth consistency many associate with childhood. It is a practical staple for a kids' lunch paired with grilled cheese. The honest trade-off is the presence of HFCS and wheat flour, which may not suit those looking for whole-food ingredients or those with gluten sensitivities, despite the impressive 9.9 score.

Progresso's Cheese Tortellini in Garden Vegetable Tomato Soup offers a more complex nutritional profile. With only 2g of sugar per 100g, it manages to keep sweetness low while providing substance through durum flour pasta and ricotta cheese. The inclusion of bread crumbs and cheese suggests a hearty, savory texture that feels more like a meal than a beverage. This is an excellent option to toss in a gym bag for a post-workout recovery meal that provides both carbohydrates and a hint of dairy protein. A notable trade-off is the complexity of the ingredient list; with bread crumbs and multiple flour types, it is a more processed option compared to a simple tomato puree.

The Progresso Vegetable Classics Hearty Tomato Soup utilizes both tomato puree and whole tomatoes, which likely results in a more rustic, chunky texture compared to smooth varieties. The addition of olive oil is a premium touch for a commercial soup, potentially adding a richer depth to the flavor. At 4g of sugar per 100g, it sits in the middle of the pack for sweetness. It works well as a quick dinner base when you want something that feels substantial. However, the trade-off is the use of both corn syrup solids and sugar, along with corn starch for thickening. This dual-sweetener approach might be a deterrent for those trying to avoid corn-derived additives in their diet.