A 50 oz can of condensed tomato soup is often used in bulk settings such as restaurants, schools, or by large families. The number of servings can be misleading because it is based on the condensed form of the soup, which requires adding liquid before consumption. Understanding this distinction is vital for accurate portioning and meal planning.
The Standard Calculation: 50 oz to Servings
Manufacturers label a 50 oz can of condensed tomato soup as containing "about 11 servings". This figure is based on a serving size of 1/2 cup (120mL) of the condensed soup. Condensed soup is concentrated and meant to be mixed with an equal amount of liquid, like water or milk, before serving. While mathematically, 50 fluid ounces divided by a 4-fluid ounce serving (1/2 cup) equals 12.5 servings of the condensed product, manufacturers round this number on the label.
Serving Sizes: Prepared vs. Unprepared
The serving count changes when the soup is prepared. Adding an equal volume of liquid to the 50 oz of condensed soup results in a total of 100 fluid ounces of ready-to-eat soup. Since a prepared serving is typically considered 1 cup (8 fluid ounces), dividing the total prepared volume by the prepared serving size (100 fl oz / 8 fl oz) yields 12.5 servings. So, while the number of condensed servings is listed as 11, the practical yield is closer to 12.5 one-cup servings of prepared soup.
Comparison Table: 50 oz vs. Standard Cans
| Feature | 50 oz Condensed Can (e.g., Foodservice) | 10.75 oz Standard Can (e.g., Retail) |
|---|---|---|
| Container Size | 50 fl oz | 10.75 fl oz |
| Servings per Can (Condensed) | Approx. 11 servings (1/2 cup condensed) | 2.5 servings (1/2 cup condensed) |
| Servings per Can (Prepared) | Approx. 12.5 servings (1 cup prepared) | 2.5 servings (1 cup prepared) |
| Primary Use | Bulk/Foodservice | Retail/Household |
| Nutritional Labeling | Based on 1/2 cup condensed | Based on 1/2 cup condensed |
| Common Consumer Perception | Often underestimated | Often underestimated, entire can consumed |
Tips for Meal Planning
Knowing the serving capacity of a 50 oz can is useful for planning meals for various group sizes. For a large gathering, it can adequately serve over a dozen people with modest portions. For smaller households, the soup can be prepared in batches and the remainder stored for later use. Always transfer unused soup to a separate container and refrigerate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many servings are in a 50 oz can of condensed tomato soup?
A 50 oz can of condensed tomato soup contains approximately 11 servings, according to manufacturers' nutritional information. This is based on a standard half-cup serving size of the condensed soup before liquid is added.
Does adding liquid change the number of servings?
When you add an equal amount of liquid (water or milk) to a 50 oz can, the volume doubles to 100 oz. This results in about 12.5 servings if you use a full 1-cup portion size, but the nutritional information remains tied to the smaller, condensed serving.
How many cups of soup are in a 50 oz can?
A 50 oz can contains 6.25 US customary cups of condensed soup. Once prepared with an equal amount of liquid, it yields approximately 12.5 cups of ready-to-eat soup.
What is the standard serving size for condensed tomato soup?
The standard serving size for condensed tomato soup is typically 1/2 cup (or about 4 fluid ounces) of the condensed soup. This serving size is used to calculate the nutritional information on the label.
How do I store leftover soup from a 50 oz can?
Unused condensed soup should be refrigerated in a separate, airtight container. It is not recommended to store it in the original can. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the leftovers.
Can I use the 50 oz can for purposes other than soup?
Yes, a large can of tomato soup can be a versatile ingredient. It can serve as a base for chili, casseroles, sauces, or stews, making it an excellent pantry staple for bulk cooking.
Why do people often misjudge the number of servings in a can of soup?
Many people misjudge the number of servings because they assume the whole can is a single serving, especially with smaller cans. For condensed soup, the serving size on the label refers to the concentrated product, not the final prepared volume.
Conclusion
To determine the number of servings in a 50 oz can of condensed tomato soup, it's crucial to distinguish between condensed and prepared servings. While the manufacturer lists approximately 11 servings based on a 1/2-cup condensed portion, the actual yield after adding an equal amount of liquid is closer to 12.5 one-cup servings of prepared soup. Understanding this helps in managing portions, planning for larger groups, and effectively utilizing a bulk purchase.
Tips for Stretching Your Soup
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to increase volume and nutrients.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked meat, poultry, or legumes to make the soup more substantial.
- Pasta or Rice: Stir in small pasta shapes or rice to make a heartier soup.
- Flavor Enhancements: Use herbs, spices, or a touch of cream for added flavor and richness.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Pair the soup with bread, croutons, or a sandwich to create a more complete meal.
Further Reading
To learn more about standard can sizes and their equivalents, consult the University of Nebraska's Food website.
Considerations for Storage
Proper storage is essential for unused condensed soup. Transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating or freezing ensures freshness and safety for future use.
