Is progresso tomato basil soup low fodmap? The Definitive Answer for a Sensitive Gut

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 25 to 45 million Americans suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and many follow a low-FODMAP diet to manage symptoms. However, navigating grocery store aisles for quick and easy meals can be challenging. So, is progresso tomato basil soup low fodmap? Unfortunately, it is not, and understanding why can help you choose better options.

Quick Summary

This article confirms that Progresso tomato basil soup is not suitable for a low-FODMAP diet due to high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic, onion, and concentrated tomatoes. It provides an in-depth breakdown of ingredient issues, highlights certified low-FODMAP brands, and offers guidance for making a delicious, homemade alternative.

Key Points

Not Low FODMAP: Progresso tomato basil soup is not suitable for a low-FODMAP diet due to high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic and onion powder.
High-FODMAP Ingredients: Key triggers include concentrated tomato products (tomato puree), garlic powder, and onion powder, all of which contain fructans or high fructose levels.
Check for Alternatives: Safe alternatives include certified low-FODMAP brands like Bay's Kitchen and Tideford, which specifically formulate products without high-FODMAP additives.
Control Your Portions: When using canned tomatoes in other recipes, remember that serving sizes need to be controlled, as even plain canned varieties can become high-FODMAP in large quantities.
Make Your Own: A homemade low-FODMAP tomato basil soup is the most reliable option, using safe substitutes like garlic-infused oil and leek greens for flavor.
Read All Labels: Be vigilant about reading ingredient lists on all canned and processed foods, as high-FODMAP ingredients can be surprisingly prevalent.

Is Progresso Tomato Basil Soup Low FODMAP? The Comprehensive Guide

For those managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other digestive sensitivities, a low-FODMAP diet is a crucial tool. It’s an eating plan designed to reduce intake of fermentable carbohydrates that can trigger uncomfortable symptoms. A simple can of soup can seem like a safe and convenient option, but appearances can be deceiving. Many commercially prepared soups, including Progresso's popular tomato basil flavor, contain hidden high-FODMAP ingredients.

Why Progresso Tomato Basil Soup Isn't Low FODMAP

Several factors contribute to why Progresso's tomato basil soup is not considered low-FODMAP. The standard recipe and even the reduced-sodium versions typically contain multiple ingredients that are problematic for sensitive digestive systems.

Garlic and Onion Powder: Garlic and onion are two of the most common and potent high-FODMAP ingredients, containing fructans that can cause digestive distress. Most Progresso soups list garlic and/or onion powder in their ingredients list.
Concentrated Tomato Products: Processed tomato products, such as tomato paste and purees, have a higher concentration of fructose and fructans than fresh tomatoes. A key ingredient in this soup is tomato puree, which can easily push the FODMAP content over the safe limit. Monash University, a leading authority on the low-FODMAP diet, has found that larger portions of many processed tomato products are high in fructose.
Other High-FODMAP Additives: Some versions of Progresso soup may contain other high-FODMAP ingredients, such as yeast extract, which is not suitable for the diet. Additionally, added sugars can contain excess fructose, another FODMAP.

Understanding Tomatoes and FODMAPs

It's a common misconception that all tomato products are high-FODMAP. The FODMAP content of tomatoes depends heavily on the variety, ripeness, and how they are processed. The FODMAPs in tomatoes are fructose and fructans, which are poorly absorbed by some individuals.

Here’s a look at how different tomato products stack up:

Fresh Tomatoes: Many fresh tomato varieties, like common and Roma tomatoes, are low-FODMAP in specific portion sizes. According to Monash University, a 65g serving of common tomato or a 48g serving of Roma tomato is considered low-FODMAP.
Canned Tomatoes: The canning process can concentrate fructose levels. While a small 100g serving of canned tomatoes can be low-FODMAP, larger portions can trigger symptoms.
Tomato Paste: This is a very concentrated source of fructose and fructans. However, a small serving of 28g (2 tablespoons) is considered low-FODMAP.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These are even more concentrated and have a very low tolerance for those on a low-FODMAP diet. A serving of just 8g is the recommended low-FODMAP limit.

Finding a Low-FODMAP Tomato Soup Alternative

For those on a low-FODMAP diet, all is not lost when a tomato soup craving strikes. Several excellent alternatives are available, from certified store-bought options to making your own from scratch.

Certified Low-FODMAP Brands

Look for brands that are specifically labeled and certified as low-FODMAP. These products are rigorously tested to ensure they meet the dietary restrictions.

Bay's Kitchen: Offers a certified low-FODMAP Tomato & Roasted Pepper Soup, designed specifically for those with dietary sensitivities. It avoids high-FODMAP ingredients like onion and garlic.
Tideford Organic: Another brand offering a FODMAP-friendly soup option. Their Tomato & Basil Soup with Red Peppers & Miso is certified and uses compliant ingredients.

Creating a Homemade Low-FODMAP Tomato Basil Soup

Making your own soup is the best way to ensure it is completely compliant and tailored to your tolerance levels. By swapping out high-FODMAP ingredients for safe alternatives, you can create a delicious and soothing soup.

Ingredients for a Homemade Low-FODMAP Tomato Basil Soup:

Garlic-infused olive oil (a safe alternative for garlic flavor)
Leek leaves (the dark green parts are low-FODMAP and can add an onion-like flavor)
Canned whole tomatoes (in controlled portions)
Low-FODMAP vegetable broth or stock
Fresh basil leaves
Lactose-free cream or canned coconut milk for a creamy finish
Spices and seasonings like oregano, salt, and pepper

Steps for a Homemade Soup:

Sauté the leek leaves in garlic-infused olive oil until softened.
Add the canned whole tomatoes, low-FODMAP broth, and seasonings. Break up the tomatoes with a spoon.
Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil and lactose-free cream or coconut milk.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. For a very smooth soup, use a stand blender in batches.
Serve warm, and garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Comparison Table: Soup Options for a Low-FODMAP Diet


Feature	Progresso Tomato Basil Soup	Certified Low-FODMAP Soup	Homemade Low-FODMAP Soup
FODMAP Status	HIGH FODMAP (Contains garlic, onion, and concentrated tomatoes)	LOW FODMAP (Certified and tested)	LOW FODMAP (If made with compliant ingredients)
Convenience	High (Ready to heat and eat)	Moderate (Requires finding specific brands)	Low (Requires time for preparation)
Ingredients Control	None (Set recipe with hidden high-FODMAPs)	High (Tested and safe ingredients)	Complete (You control all ingredients)
Cost	Low to Moderate	Moderate to High (Specialty product)	Low to Moderate (Depending on ingredients)
Flavor Customization	None (Fixed flavor profile)	Limited (Set flavor profile)	High (Can be adjusted to personal taste)

Conclusion

While a can of Progresso tomato basil soup might seem like an easy meal solution, the answer to 'is progresso tomato basil soup low fodmap?' is a firm no. Due to common high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic and onion powder, as well as concentrated tomato products, it is not suitable for individuals following this diet. Fortunately, numerous alternatives are available. Seeking out certified low-FODMAP brands or preparing a simple homemade version using compliant substitutes like garlic-infused oil and leek leaves can provide a safe and satisfying way to enjoy tomato basil soup without digestive distress. Always remember to check labels and control portion sizes, especially with processed tomato products, to maintain a gut-friendly diet. For more information on managing digestive health, consider consulting a registered dietitian or resources like Monash University's FODMAP app for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.

Monash University Low FODMAP Diet

Frequently Asked Questions

Garlic powder is highly concentrated and contains significant amounts of fructans, a type of carbohydrate that is a common trigger for IBS symptoms and is high on the FODMAP list.

Not all are, but many popular commercial brands are due to the inclusion of high-FODMAP ingredients like onion, garlic, and concentrated tomato products. You must check the label carefully or look for certified low-FODMAP options.

Yes, you can. The FODMAP content depends on the type and serving size. Fresh tomatoes are low-FODMAP in controlled portions, and small amounts of tomato paste are also acceptable. Portion control is key.

For a low-FODMAP diet, you can use garlic-infused olive oil and the dark green parts of leeks to add flavor without the high-FODMAP content.

Certified low-FODMAP soups can be found at specialty health food stores or online retailers that focus on dietary restrictions. Brands like Bay's Kitchen and Tideford offer certified products.

Yes. When tomatoes are processed into concentrated forms like paste or puree, the fructose and fructan levels increase. This is why canned or concentrated tomato products can be high-FODMAP in larger servings.

No, the reduced-sodium version is not low-FODMAP. While it has less salt, it still contains high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic powder.