# Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce, Mild

> Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop.

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** Old El Paso
- **Retailer listed:** Foodtown
- **Category:** International & World Foods
- **Size:** 10 oz
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/old-el-paso-enchilada-sauce-mild-10-oz
- **Slug:** `old-el-paso-enchilada-sauce-mild-10-oz`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods

Contains industrially modified ingredients (modified corn starch, hydrolyzed corn protein), added flavors and colorings and is a shelf-stable formulated sauce, consistent with ultra-processed foods (NOVA 4).

## Review

Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce, Mild (10 oz) is a familiar pantry shortcut you’ll spot on the Mexican foods aisle, shelved near taco kits, canned tomatoes, jarred salsas, refried beans and other convenience sauces. It reads as an all-purpose enchilada topper for busy weeknights: home cooks grab it when they want a quick enchilada bake, to doctor up a taco skillet, or to add saucy warmth to casseroles and dipping bowls for game-night snack spreads. The Old El Paso brand leans into Tex‑Mex tradition and family-friendly convenience—positioned as an accessible, mass-market staple for households that enjoy approachable Mexican-inspired meals without specialty shopping. Packaging is bright and branded with the company’s logo and serving suggestions; label copy often highlights tomato as a main ingredient and lists “natural flavor,” but this product carries no organic certification and no explicit “all-natural” or clean-label guarantees. The sauce itself is smooth and pourable, slightly thickened on the palate due to modified corn starch, and offers a mild, gently spiced tomato base with a glossy red color (paprika and black carrot extracts used for color). In ritual use shoppers image spooning or pouring the sauce over rolled tortillas before baking, stirring it into ground beef mixtures, or using it as a quick simmered sauce for enchilada-style bowls. From a processing perspective, it’s a commercially prepared sauce with added starches, flavor enhancers and preservatives typical of shelf-stable condiments. Sensory appeal relies on convenience, consistent flavor, and a ready-made shortcut to homey, comforting Mexican-inspired meals.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 0.25 cup
- **Servings per container:** 4.5
- **Calories:** 20
- **Total fat:** 0g (0% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 0g (0% DV)
- **Sodium:** 290mg (13% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 4g (1% DV)
- **Total sugars:** 1g
- **Protein:** 0g

## Ingredients

Water, Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste), Modified Corn Starch, Contains 2% or Less of: Sugar, Salt, Chile Pepper, Soybean Oil, Vinegar, Spice, Citric Acid, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Onion Powder, Natural Flavor, Color (Black Carrot and Paprika Extract).

## Flagged ingredients

- **Soybean Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **Black Carrot** (additive): Artificial coloring
- **Paprika Extract** (additive): Artificial coloring

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** game-day-prep, meal-prep-sunday, back-to-school
- **Vibes:** convenient, comforting, nostalgic

## FAQ

### Is the enchilada sauce healthy?

Well, that depends on your definition of healthy! With only 20 calories per serving and low sugar content, it can fit into a balanced diet. Just keep in mind that it's not a protein powerhouse, so pairing it with something hearty, like beans or chicken, can make for a more complete meal.

### Is the enchilada sauce vegan?

Nope, this enchilada sauce isn't vegan. It contains hydrolyzed corn protein, which is derived from corn but is not considered vegan-friendly due to the processing involved. If you're looking for a plant-based option, you'll want to check out sauces specifically labeled as vegan.

### Is the enchilada sauce gluten-free?

Absolutely! This enchilada sauce is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. So, go ahead and slather it on your favorite tacos without worry!

### Does it contain seed oils?

Yes, this sauce does contain soybean oil, which is a type of seed oil. While some folks prefer to avoid seed oils due to their omega-6 fatty acid content, in moderation, they’re generally safe and help with texture and flavor in sauces like this one.

### Does it contain artificial sweeteners?

Nope, there are no artificial sweeteners in this enchilada sauce. Instead, it gets a touch of sweetness from sugar, but it's minimal — just 1 gram per serving. So, you can enjoy that slight sweetness without the guilt of added sweeteners!

### Is it high in sugar?

Not at all! With only 1 gram of sugar per serving, this sauce is definitely low in sugar. It's a nice option for those watching their sugar intake, especially compared to some other sauces that can be loaded with sweeteners.

### What are healthier alternatives?

If you're looking for healthier alternatives, consider making your own enchilada sauce with fresh tomatoes, spices, and herbs. There are also brands out there that focus on organic or no-salt-added options if you want something a bit cleaner. Just remember, homemade can be a fun project, but this sauce is super convenient for a quick meal!

### Can kids eat it?

Absolutely! This enchilada sauce is mild, making it kid-friendly and perfect for family taco nights. Just be sure to check for any allergies, especially if they’re sensitive to soy or spices.

### Is it good for weight loss?

In moderation, yes! With only 20 calories per serving, it can add flavor without packing on the calories. Just remember, weight loss is all about the bigger picture — so pair it with nutritious foods to keep your meals balanced.

### Is it ultra-processed?

While it’s certainly processed, I wouldn’t classify this enchilada sauce as ultra-processed. It contains some recognizable ingredients and doesn’t have a long list of preservatives or artificial additives. It's a convenient option for a quick meal, but as always, a little homemade freshness is hard to beat!

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