Ragu Old World Style Traditional Sauce

Ragu Old World Style Traditional Sauce

B

A B C D F
Overall Health Grade: B
UPC: 036200002506

What this grade means

This sauce is made mostly from minimally processed ingredients and provides some nutritional benefits like antioxidants from tomatoes and healthy fats from olive oil. It is generally safe and suitable for regular use, though sodium and added sugar prevent a perfect grade.

Why it earned a B

The score reflects:

  • Ingredient safety and regulatory approval
  • Nutritional quality and antioxidant content
  • Degree of processing and additive use

No personalization. No subjective adjustments.

Ingredient Explanations + Scientific Sources

Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste)

What it does: Rich in lycopene and other antioxidants, which support heart and cellular health. Cooking increases lycopene availability.

Sources:

  • https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452224/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073576/
Salt (Sodium)

What it does: Enhances flavor and preserves the product. Excess sodium over time can increase blood pressure.

Sources:

  • https://www.cdc.gov/salt/index.htm
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770596/
  • https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-education-resources-materials/sodium-your-diet
Olive Oil

What it does: Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Sources:

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452226/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6722830/
Sugar

What it does: Adds sweetness and balances flavor. Even small amounts are unnecessary calories.

Sources:

  • https://www.cdc.gov/sugars/index.html
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6959843/
Dehydrated Onions, Onion Powder

What it does: Contain plant compounds that support heart health and provide antioxidants.

Sources:

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707689/
  • https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
Dehydrated Garlic, Garlic Powder

What it does: Contains sulfur compounds linked to cardiovascular and immune system benefits.

Sources:

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707689/
Spices

What it does: Provide antioxidants and flavor without adding calories. Composition varies by batch.

Sources:

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452226/
  • https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/

Safety check

Result: No high-risk flags

All ingredients are safe at typical food-level exposure. No carcinogens or banned substances.

Sources:https://monographs.iarc.who.int/
https://www.fda.gov/food/generally-recognized-safe-gras/gras-substances-scogs-database