Is there too much sodium in Campbell's soup? A nutritional deep dive

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Pritikin Longevity Center, a typical can of Campbell's soup can contain 1,400 to 1,800 milligrams of sodium, often using up your entire daily allotment. This high concentration raises the question: is there too much sodium in Campbell's soup, and what are the health implications?

Quick Summary

This article examines the elevated sodium content found in many Campbell's soup varieties, outlines the health risks associated with high sodium intake, explains why so much salt is added, and provides practical advice on choosing healthier, lower-sodium options.

Key Points

High Sodium Content: Many standard Campbell's soup varieties contain very high sodium levels, sometimes exceeding a full day's recommended intake in a single can.
Health Risks: Consuming too much sodium can lead to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney strain, and stroke.
Flavor and Preservation: Sodium is used in canned soup for flavor enhancement and as a preservative to extend shelf life.
Low Sodium Options Available: Campbell's offers "Healthy Request," "Less Sodium," and even unsalted versions, providing choices for health-conscious consumers.
Read Labels Carefully: It is crucial to check the nutrition label for actual sodium content, as marketing terms can be misleading.
Homemade vs. Canned: Making soup from scratch is the best way to have complete control over the sodium content.
Balanced Approach: It is possible to enjoy Campbell's soup in moderation by opting for healthier product lines and supplementing with fresh ingredients.

Understanding the Problem: Why Is Campbell's Soup So Salty?

Sodium is a key ingredient in many processed foods, including Campbell's soup, for several reasons, from flavor enhancement to preservation. For many years, American palates have been conditioned to prefer heavily salty foods, and taste remains a primary driver for keeping sodium levels high. Beyond taste, sodium acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of canned goods by warding off harmful pathogens. This longevity is crucial for mass-produced products. Sodium is also functionally important in creating the desired texture and golden color in things like baked goods, and in soup, it amplifies the savory flavor.

The Health Risks of High Sodium

While some sodium is essential for bodily functions like nerve and muscle operation, excessive intake poses significant health risks. A diet consistently high in sodium can lead to a variety of issues, including high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. It can also put a strain on the kidneys and lead to calcium drainage from bones. The American Heart Association recommends that the average person consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, with an ideal limit closer to 1,500 milligrams for most adults. A single can of regular Campbell's condensed chicken noodle soup can contain over 2,200 milligrams of sodium, nearly the entire recommended daily limit.

Comparing Different Campbell's Soup Varieties

Not all Campbell's soups are created equal when it comes to sodium. The company offers several product lines to address consumer health concerns, including "Healthy Request" and "Less Sodium" versions. However, consumers must read labels carefully, as even these healthier-sounding options can contain higher-than-expected amounts of sodium. Here is a comparison of different soup varieties to highlight the disparity in sodium content:


Soup Variety	Sodium per Serving	Notes
Condensed Chicken Noodle (Regular)	890 mg	Serving size is 1 cup, but most consume the whole can (approx. 2225mg).
Chunky Classic Chicken Noodle	790 mg	Per 1 cup serving. A whole can contains over 1500mg.
Healthy Request Chicken Noodle	410 mg	A much lower sodium option, meeting heart-healthy criteria.
25% Less Sodium Chicken Noodle	660 mg	A reduced-sodium version, but still relatively high.
Unsalted Cream of Mushroom	50-60 mg	An excellent choice for strict sodium control.

The Shift Toward Healthier Choices

In response to consumer feedback and health initiatives, Campbell's has made efforts over the years to reduce sodium across its product portfolio. For instance, the company has introduced "Healthy Request" and "Less Sodium" lines, some featuring potassium salt as a sodium-reducing agent. These initiatives show a recognition of the growing health-consciousness among consumers. The rise of unsalted options allows for maximum customization, giving individuals control over their sodium intake.

Making Better Choices for a Healthier Diet

Here are some steps you can take to manage your sodium intake when buying canned soup:

Read the nutrition label: Don't trust front-of-can claims like "reduced sodium" without checking the facts. Compare the milligram-to-calorie ratio, aiming for sodium content that does not exceed calories per serving.
Opt for "Healthy Request" or "Less Sodium" varieties: While not perfect, these are a better starting point than standard versions.
Look for unsalted options: Campbell's and other brands offer unsalted condensed soups that allow you to season to your preference.
Supplement with fresh ingredients: Boost the flavor and nutrition of a lower-sodium soup by adding fresh herbs, vegetables, or spices, reducing the need for salt.
Consider homemade soup: The ultimate control over sodium lies in preparing your own soup from scratch using fresh ingredients and low-sodium broth.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Campbell's Soup

While the high sodium content in many traditional Campbell's soup varieties is a valid health concern, the company has responded to public demand by offering a wider range of lower-sodium options. The iconic chicken noodle soup, with its notably high sodium, still exists alongside healthier alternatives. Consumers can enjoy Campbell's products as part of a balanced diet by being mindful of the sodium content and choosing wisely from the various options available. Reading the nutrition label, selecting reduced or unsalted versions, and incorporating fresh additions are all effective strategies for those looking to manage their sodium intake without giving up their favorite comfort food entirely.

For more information on dietary sodium and its effects on health, consult authoritative sources like the American Heart Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

The sodium content varies by product, but a single can of some traditional Campbell's soups can contain upwards of 1,400 to 1,800 milligrams of sodium, sometimes more.

The American Heart Association recommends an ideal daily intake of no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium, with an upper limit of 2,300 milligrams for most adults.

Campbell's 'Healthy Request' soups are lower in sodium than their regular counterparts, with many around 410 milligrams per serving, but this is still a moderate amount of salt.

Sodium is added to canned soups primarily for flavor enhancement and as a preservative to ensure a longer shelf life.

Consuming too much sodium can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney strain.

Campbell's offers unsalted versions of some condensed soups, and other brands provide genuinely low-sodium options. Making homemade soup is also a good alternative.

You can opt for unsalted or reduced-sodium varieties and boost flavor with fresh herbs, spices, or vegetables instead of adding extra salt.

Yes, Campbell's has taken steps over the years to reduce sodium, introducing lower-sodium lines and reformulating many products in response to consumer demand.

Campbell's has used potassium salt in some recipes to reduce sodium content while maintaining taste. Potassium is an essential nutrient, but consult a doctor if you have kidney or heart issues.