Tomato soup from Lidl is a popular and budget-friendly meal option, but its nutritional content can vary widely depending on the specific product. Consumers often need to look past the generic label and examine the details of canned, condensed, and fresh versions to understand the full calorie and macronutrient breakdown. The addition of ingredients like cream, sugar, and oil in some recipes contributes to a higher calorie count, while plainer, condensed versions tend to be lower.
Lidl Tomato Soup Calorie Breakdown by Product
Newgate Cream of Tomato Soup (400g)
This is one of the most common tinned soups found in Lidl. Its calorie content is derived from the tomatoes, but also from added cream and oils. A 400g can of Newgate Cream of Tomato soup contains approximately 264 calories, based on the 66 calories per 100g figure reported by Open Food Facts. A typical half-can serving (200g) would therefore contain around 132 calories. This creamy, smooth variant offers a higher fat content than non-cream alternatives.
Deluxe Creamy Tomato & Basil Soup (400g)
As part of Lidl's premium Deluxe range, this soup often features a richer ingredient list, including basil for extra flavour. A 400g can of the Deluxe Creamy Tomato & Basil soup contains approximately 248 calories, according to Nutracheck figures that calculate 62 calories per 100g. While a similar calorie count to the Newgate version, the nutritional profile can differ based on the specific ingredients and preparation.
Classic Condensed Tomato Soup
For those watching their calories closely, a condensed version is often the best choice, but it is important to factor in how it is prepared. According to data from Nutritionix, a 125g cup of prepared Lidl Classic Condensed Tomato Soup contains around 90 calories. This version typically has less fat and cream, making it a lighter option, but can still contain a moderate amount of sugar and sodium. Always check the instructions for mixing, as the preparation method can affect the final nutritional value.
Fresh Tomato & Basil Soup (Chef Select)
Lidl also offers fresh soup options, often found in the refrigerated section under the Chef Select brand. These soups may have a different nutritional profile than their canned counterparts. A fresh Tomato & Basil soup, for instance, has been noted to contain around 58 calories per 100g. Fresh soups generally offer a brighter, more vibrant tomato flavour and can be lower in sodium, though this can vary by recipe.
Factors Affecting Calorie Content
- Added Cream and Oils: The biggest differentiator in calorie counts is often the addition of cream and oil. "Cream of" soups, like the Newgate and Deluxe varieties, naturally have a higher fat content, which increases the overall calories per serving. Recipes using richer rapeseed oil or double cream contribute significantly to the calorie count.
- Condensed vs. Ready-to-Serve: Condensed soup is sold in a concentrated form and typically requires adding water or milk, which dilutes the nutrients and affects the final calorie count per serving. Ready-to-serve canned soups are already diluted and provide a consistent calorie figure per 100g.
- Sugar and Starches: Many commercial tomato soups, including some from Lidl, contain added sugars and starches to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a thicker texture. These ingredients contribute to the total carbohydrate and calorie count.
- Recipe Changes: Lidl's products are subject to recipe and ingredient changes over time. Nutritional information should always be checked on the product's packaging for the most up-to-date figures.
Calorie and Nutritional Comparison Table
| Product | Type | Calories (per 100g) | Total Fat (per 100g) | Sugar (per 100g) | Salt (per 100g) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newgate Cream of Tomato | Canned (Ready) | 66 kcal | 3.6 g | 4.7 g | 0.45 g | Open Food Facts |
| Deluxe Creamy T & B | Canned (Ready) | 62 kcal | 3.2 g | 4.6 g | 0.412 g | Nutracheck/Open Food Facts |
| Classic Condensed | Canned (Prepared) | 72 kcal* | 0.7 g | 9.6 g | 0.384 g | Nutritionix |
| Chef Select T & B | Fresh | 58 kcal | 2.5 g | (Variable) | (Variable) | Nutracheck |
*Note: Calories calculated for the condensed soup assume preparation with water, based on a 125g portion providing 90 calories. Calorie density (72kcal/100g) is higher than the average ready-to-serve version because it is more concentrated with added ingredients like sugar and starches.
Health Considerations Beyond Calories
While calories are a key factor for those managing weight, it's also important to look at other nutritional components. For example, many tinned soups can be high in sodium, which is a concern for blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Checking the salt content on the nutrition label is always a good practice.
The sugar content in tomato soups is also a point of interest. Some products, especially those that are sweeter or have a more concentrated flavour, may contain surprising amounts of added sugars. The Lidl Tomato and basil Soup reviewed by Open Food Facts, for instance, had 3.9g of sugar per 100g, which can add up if consuming a whole can. These sugars provide energy but not the same satiating power as protein or fibre.
For a more detailed analysis, you can consult sources like Open Food Facts for specific product information. Checking the full list of ingredients can also reveal the quality and source of the different components. Some reviews have noted differences in texture and flavour compared to more premium or well-known brands, which can be linked to the ratio of tomato puree to other fillers.
Conclusion
The calorie content of Lidl tomato soup is not a single, fixed number but varies depending on the specific product and its ingredients. Canned soups, particularly creamy versions like Newgate and Deluxe, generally have a higher calorie count than condensed varieties when prepared with water. To make the most informed decision for your dietary needs, it's essential to compare the nutritional information on the packaging of each product. For a lower-calorie option, look for less creamy versions or consider Lidl's fresh soup range, keeping in mind that these are still likely to contain added salt and sugar. Always check the label to ensure you're picking the right soup for your dietary requirements. For a deeper dive into the specific ingredients of a product like the Tomato and basil Soup from Lidl, consulting reliable food databases like Open Food Facts is highly recommended.
