Is Meijer, pasta sauce, tomato & basil Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a pasta sauce fits a Kosher diet, we look for hidden animal derivatives like rennet, gelatin, or non-Kosher stabilizers. Fortunately, the ingredient list for Meijer Tomato & Basil Pasta Sauce is straightforward and plant-based. The base consists of Tomato puree and diced tomatoes, which are inherently Kosher. The flavor profile is enhanced with basil, dehydrated onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. None of these spices are typically processed with animal products.

There are two ingredients worth noting for specific dietary needs. First, sugar is added for acidity balance; while pure sugar is Kosher, strict consumers often look for products certified by the Star-K or OU to ensure no bone char filtration was used. Second, soybean oil is used as a processing aid. This is a vegetable oil and is acceptable, though some individuals with severe soy allergies should be aware. Finally, lemon juice is added as a natural preservative and acidifier. Overall, the formula is clean, containing no dairy, meat, or wine derivatives that would violate Kosher laws.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this sauce is relatively standard for a jarred pasta topping. A typical serving contains around 40-50 calories, derived mostly from the soybean oil and sugar. The fat content is low, usually under 1g per serving, making it a heart-healthy choice compared to cream-based sauces. However, the sugar content (often 4-6g per serving) is something to monitor if you are on a low-carb or diabetic diet. The sodium level is moderate, hovering around 480mg per serving, which is standard for preserving tomato products. It fits well within a balanced diet, especially when paired with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.