The Ingredients of Classic Heinz Tomato Soup
For decades, Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup has been a beloved cupboard staple, renowned for its rich and creamy flavour. However, modern consumers are increasingly scrutinising the nutritional content of their food, leading many to question its ingredients. A standard 400g can of classic Heinz tomato soup does list sugar as one of its ingredients. The recipe typically includes: tomatoes (89%), water, modified cornflour, sugar, rapeseed oil, dried skimmed milk, salt, cream (milk), milk proteins, and citric acid. As the list shows, sugar is explicitly added during the manufacturing process, alongside the naturally occurring sugars found in the tomatoes themselves.
How Much Sugar is in a Can?
Based on official nutritional data, a standard 400g can of Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup is sold with two servings. The figures for the sugar content are as follows:
- Per 100g: 4.8g of sugar.
- Per half can (200g): 9.7g of sugar.
- Per full can (400g): This equates to 19.4g of sugar, or approximately five teaspoons of sugar, if consumed entirely.
This is a significant amount and an important consideration for anyone managing their sugar intake or counting calories.
Why is Sugar Added to Canned Tomato Soup?
The inclusion of sugar in savoury products like tomato soup might seem counterintuitive, but there are several practical and culinary reasons for it. The primary purpose is to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes. Tomatoes contain naturally high levels of citric and malic acids, which can give them a sharp or tangy flavour. The small amount of added sugar does not make the soup taste sweet, but rather mellows and rounds out the overall flavour profile, creating the smooth, palatable taste many people associate with Heinz.
Other reasons include:
- Enhancing flavour: Sugar can enhance the overall taste of the soup, making it more appealing to a broader range of consumers.
- Improving texture: It can contribute to the texture and mouthfeel of the soup, making it feel smoother and more substantial.
- Preservation: In some food products, sugar can act as a natural preservative, although this is less of a primary function in modern canning processes.
The “No Added Sugar” Alternative
Recognising the growing consumer demand for healthier options, Heinz introduced a 'No Added Sugar' version of its Cream of Tomato Soup. This product provides the familiar flavour with a healthier nutritional profile.
To compensate for the missing sugar, the 'No Added Sugar' version uses a different recipe. This version contains the natural sweetener Steviol Glycosides and has 25% less salt than the classic recipe. Crucially, its sugar content comes exclusively from the naturally occurring sugars in the tomatoes themselves. This means consumers can enjoy a warming bowl of soup without the added refined sugar.
Comparison: Classic vs. No Added Sugar
Here is a direct comparison of the sugar and salt content per 100g for the two varieties based on UK nutritional data, illustrating the key differences.
| Feature | Heinz Classic Cream of Tomato Soup | Heinz No Added Sugar Cream of Tomato Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar (per 100g) | 4.8g | 2.6g (Naturally occurring) |
| Salt (per 100g) | 0.5g | 0.4g (25% less) |
| Sweetener | Added refined sugar | Steviol Glycosides (natural source) |
| Taste Profile | Rich and classic, with balanced acidity | Very similar to the original, with some reviewers noting a slight aftertaste from the sweetener |
Making an Informed Choice
Choosing between the classic and no added sugar versions of Heinz tomato soup depends on personal dietary goals and preferences. For those monitoring their sugar intake, the 'No Added Sugar' option is a clear winner. For others, the classic version offers a familiar taste that has stood the test of time.
When buying any canned soup, it is always a good practice to read the ingredient list and nutritional table carefully. Be mindful of other names for sugar, such as corn syrup, sucrose, or dextrose, which manufacturers sometimes use. If you are looking for an option with the purest taste, making homemade tomato soup from fresh ingredients remains the best option, allowing for complete control over salt and sugar levels. For an excellent store-bought choice, check out the official Heinz 'No Added Sugar' product page.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, classic Heinz tomato soup does have added sugar, primarily to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes and improve flavour. For those who prefer to reduce their sugar consumption, the brand provides a 'No Added Sugar' version that relies on naturally occurring sugars and a plant-based sweetener instead. Both options offer the classic, comforting flavour, giving consumers a choice based on their health priorities. Understanding these differences empowers you to make a more informed decision next time you reach for a can.
