Healthiest Canned Soups When the weather gets cold, everyone wants soup, but not everyone has time to make it. If you’re lacking in culinary motivation, there are plenty of soup options in grocery store aisles, from cans to Tetra Packs to frozen choices. But canned soup doesn’t have the best reputation, especially regarding sodium levels.
We got a little closer to cardigans and wondered about the possibility of a hot lunch, interviewing nutritionists to find out what they think of the soup and what they look for when stocking up for the cold days.
First of all, soup is something foodies love. “A good soup makes everything perfect,” says dietitian nutritionist Amanda Frankeny. And she’s not opposed to things pack by hand.
“It’s a time saver,” Frankeny said. “During busy workdays, when illness strikes, or when a busy fall schedule takes over, I’m sometimes in the mood for some soup from my pantry.”
At a busy time of year, canned soup can be a lifesaver. “Many people get so distracted with work that they skip meals,” dietitian Vanessa Rissetto says. “Having soup on hand can help reduce the burden of preparation and can help stabilise your blood sugar if you do it at the right time.”
Table of Contents
What is the Healthiest Canned Soup?
- Campbell’s Well, Yes!
- Progresso Reduced Sodium Creamy Tomato Basil Soup.
- Healthy Choice Chicken Noodle Soup.
- Organic Split Pea & Uncured Ham Soup from Pacific Foods.
- Good & Gather Chicken Tortilla Soup.
- Amy’s Organic Black Bean Vegetable Soup.
- Healthy Valley Organic No Salt Added Lentil Soup.
Scouting For Sodium
The American Heart Association inspires people to limit sodium to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day, as noted by Frankeny. “There are tons of low-sodium soups on the market, and many taste the taste,” he added.
Packaged foods, including soups, make up the bulk of many people’s sodium intake, Jones said. And that can be a concern. “High sodium diets are associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, which is a leading cause of stroke and heart disease,” he said.
“When reading labels, a general rule of thumb: 5% DV [Daily Value] or less sodium per serving is considered low, and 20% DV or more sodium per serving is considered high,” Jones explained. “Look for words like ‘no added salt’ and ‘low sodium.’ Your best bets are hearty, broth-based soups packed with colourful vegetables, whole grains and beans.”
Packaged soups can be high in sodium, so be careful. “A lot of packaged soups are just loaded with sodium, sometimes up to 1,000 milligrams per serving,” said Sharon Palmer, registered dietitian and nutritionist. “That could be almost half of your sodium goal for the day. Also, watch out for ingredients that may be less healthy, such as bacon, cream, and cheese.
Make Sure It’s Filling
“If your soup is going to be a meal, make sure it has plenty of protein and fibre,” Gorin says. Rissetto added, “A tomato soup, while delicious, won’t stop you, so soups that contain beans or chicken are my favourites.”
“Fat is essential if the soup is just your meal,” Amer said. “Fat is digested slowly to keep you full longer.”
Now that you have chosen, do not hesitate to personalise your bowl. “If you need more flavour, add your ingredients, like a splash of citrus juice or zest, vinegar, caramelised vegetables, herbs, or a tablespoon of tomato paste,” Frankeny said. “If you need to reduce the saltiness of your average soup, add water or extra fresh or frozen vegetables to the mix.”
“Fun and satisfaction are top priorities,” Frankeny said. “Permit yourself to eat the foods you love, including soup. If health is your priority, you can always find something to satisfy your hunger and warm your bones.
What is the Best-Canned Soup?
Campbell’s Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Campbell’s has a history dating back to 1869.
- Wolfgang Puck’s Tomato Basil Bisque. While his chicken above and meatball soup disappointed Wolfgang Puck more than redeems himself with his Wolfgang Puck Tomato Basil.
- Amy’s Thai Coconut Soup.
- Minestrone progress.
Conclusion
You may want to avoid some canned soups if you’re watching your salt intake. The FDA recommends limiting your sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams a day or less (the American Heart Association says 1,500 milligrams a day is ideal). However, most Americans average about 3,400 milligrams a day.
Also Read: Breakfast Ideas – Healthy and Energizing
