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Nutrition Diet Breakdown: What are the ingredients in Progresso Pitmaster soup?

2 min read

Did you know the Progresso Pitmaster line features multiple soup varieties, each with a unique list of ingredients and nutritional profile? Understanding exactly what are the ingredients in Progresso Pitmaster soup is key to fitting it into a balanced nutrition diet, especially for those monitoring sodium or focusing on whole foods.

Quick Summary

An in-depth look at the ingredients and nutritional content of various Progresso Pitmaster soup flavors. This guide examines protein, sodium, processed elements, allergens, and provides a comparative analysis to aid in dietary choices.

Key Points

  • Diverse Ingredients: The Progresso Pitmaster line includes several varieties with different key ingredients, such as steak and potatoes, BBQ chicken and corn, and sausage and beer cheese.

  • Ingredient Specifics: Key ingredients vary by flavor, from diced beef and roasted vegetables to white meat chicken, kidney beans, and creamy cheese bases.

  • High Sodium Content: Most varieties contain significant amounts of sodium, a potential concern for those monitoring their intake for cardiovascular health.

  • Processed Components: The soups feature a number of processed ingredients and additives like modified food starch, maltodextrin, and natural flavors.

  • Mixed Nutritional Profile: The soups are generally high in protein but can vary greatly in fat content, with some options like the Sausage & Beer Cheese being particularly high.

  • Allergens and Diet Compatibility: While some options are gluten-free, others like the sausage variety contain allergens such as milk, soy, and wheat.

  • Ultra-Processing Concerns: Independent watchdogs like the EWG have classified some flavors as ultra-processed, pointing to concerns about additives and processing levels.

In This Article

Progresso's Pitmaster line offers several flavor variations, each designed to deliver a hearty, smokehouse-inspired meal from a can. However, the ingredients and nutritional value differ significantly between each variety, making it important for health-conscious consumers to examine the specifics.

Deconstructing the Ingredients: What's in Each Pitmaster Flavor?

To understand the full scope of this product line, let's break down the ingredients for some of the most popular Progresso Pitmaster soups.

Hearty Smokehouse-Style Steak & Potatoes

This gluten-free soup includes beef broth, cooked seasoned beef, potatoes, and other roasted vegetables like corn and bell peppers. It contains various seasonings, starches, and natural flavor.

BBQ-Style Grilled Chicken & Fire Roasted Corn

This gluten-free option is made with chicken broth, grilled white chicken meat, fire roasted corn, kidney beans, and tomato paste. It also includes seasonings, modified food starch, and maltodextrin.

Sausage & Beer Cheese with Potatoes

This soup is not gluten-free and contains chicken broth, cooked Italian sausage, and cheese. It features potatoes and red bell pepper and includes ingredients like beer, wheat, modified food starch, and natural flavor.

Steakhouse-Style Steak & Bean

Another gluten-free option, this soup has a beef broth base with cooked seasoned beef, roasted corn, Great Northern beans, tomato paste, and jalapeño pepper. Seasonings, modified food starch, and smoked paprika are also present.

Nutrition Diet Analysis: Beyond the Ingredient List

Examining the nutrition panel is crucial. Key areas to consider for Progresso Pitmaster soups include sodium, protein, and the level of processing.

The Challenge of High Sodium

Canned soups like Progresso Pitmaster are typically high in sodium, which can be a concern for blood pressure and cardiovascular health.

Levels of Processing and Additives

Some Progresso Pitmaster soups are classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of various processed ingredients and additives such as natural and artificial flavors and modified food starch. There are also potential concerns regarding BPA in can linings.

A Mixed Picture of Macros

These soups offer a convenient source of protein, with many providing 16-20 grams per can. However, the fat content varies, with some flavors being higher in total and saturated fat. Most options containing beans provide some fiber.

Flavor and Nutritional Comparison of Progresso Pitmaster Soups

Feature Steak & Potatoes BBQ Chicken & Corn Sausage & Beer Cheese Steak & Bean
Primary Protein Diced Beef Grilled Chicken Italian Sausage Diced Beef
Primary Ingredients Potatoes, Roasted Corn, Tomatoes Kidney Beans, Fire Roasted Corn Potatoes, Beer Cheese Great Northern Beans, Roasted Corn
Protein (per can) 16g 20g 14g 20g
Sodium (per serving) 670mg 680mg 920mg (approx) 680mg
Gluten-Free? Yes Yes No Yes

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision for Your Nutrition Diet

Progresso Pitmaster soups offer convenience and protein but come with nutritional drawbacks like high sodium and processed ingredients. Factors such as BPA concerns also make them less suitable for certain diets. Reviewing ingredient lists and nutrition facts is essential for making choices aligned with your health goals. For more information on processed foods, consider consulting resources like the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores.

Frequently Asked Questions

The protein source depends on the flavor. It can be diced seasoned beef, grilled white chicken meat, or cooked Italian sausage, depending on the variety you choose.

No, not all Progresso Pitmaster soups are gluten-free. For example, the Sausage & Beer Cheese with Potatoes variety contains wheat ingredients. Some options, such as the Steak & Potatoes and BBQ-Style Chicken, are gluten-free.

Yes, common allergens such as soy, milk, and wheat can be found in different Progresso Pitmaster soups. You should always check the specific can's label for a full list of ingredients and allergen warnings.

The sodium content is high and varies by flavor. A single serving can contain over 600mg of sodium, with some varieties having more. It's important to read the nutrition facts on the specific can you purchase.

No, they are not. These soups are considered processed or ultra-processed foods due to the presence of additives like modified food starch, various flavors, and thickeners.

According to the EWG, 'natural flavors' are secret, and often complex, mixtures of chemicals that can manipulate the taste and smell of food. This makes it difficult for a consumer to know exactly what is included.

BPA stands for Bisphenol A, a chemical used in some can linings. While Progresso's website doesn't directly address BPA, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has previously raised concerns about the potential for BPA contamination in can linings used by General Mills, Progresso's parent company.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.