Pace Salsa

Awarded a 3/5 green leaf rating, the Pace Salsa Red Enchilada Sauce is positioned as a mid-tier choice for those seeking cleaner food options. The product is not certified organic, which detracts from its overall health score, and it does not exclusively use non-GMO ingredients. The presence of added sugars, specifically sugar and citric acid, further reduces its standing. Additionally, the inclusion of potential additives like natural flavor and soy lecithin contributes to a lower score, signaling the product’s departure from the ideal of a clean label.

The sauce’s ingredient list starts with water and tomato puree, which forms the base of the sauce. Modified food starch is used as a thickener, and a variety of spices are added to achieve the desired flavor profile. Yeast extract is present, often used as a flavor enhancer, alongside dried onions which contribute to the sauce’s overall taste. The product includes a blend of three chiles puree, consisting of ancho, pasilla, and guajillo chiles, which are likely to provide the characteristic heat and depth of flavor associated with enchilada sauce. The use of citric acid helps preserve the sauce, while cider vinegar can add tanginess. The natural flavoring and soy lecithin are more ambiguous, as they can encompass a range of substances, and their inclusion here impacts the product’s clean food credentials.

The Pace Salsa Red Enchilada Sauce presents a compromise between cleaner eating and the convenience of pre-packaged goods. While not at the forefront of health-conscious food options, it does not rank among the least healthy either. This sauce offers a middle ground, catering to those who prioritize some elements of cleaner eating but are not strict adherents to an organic or non-GMO diet. For consumers navigating the complex food market, this product serves as an accessible choice that balances health considerations with practicality.