A Closer Look at the Standard Great Value Cream of Chicken Soup Ingredients
Based on ingredient information from food databases and product labels, the regular Great Value Cream of Chicken Condensed Soup contains a variety of components to create its creamy texture and savory flavor. It is important to note that this version contains both milk and soy and is not gluten-free due to the use of wheat flour.
Core Flavor and Protein
The foundational flavor comes from a combination of chicken broth, cooked chicken meat, and chicken fat. The ingredient list specifies "cooked chicken meat" and "cooked mechanically separated chicken meat," indicating that it includes processed chicken parts to deliver the signature chicken taste and a small amount of protein.
Creaminess and Thickening Agents
The rich, creamy consistency is achieved through a combination of fats and thickeners. The list includes:
- Wheat flour: A common thickening agent in many condensed soups.
- Modified food starch: Used to further enhance the texture and stability of the soup.
- Soybean oil: Adds to the fat content and mouthfeel.
- Cream: Dairy content for richness.
Seasoning and Preservatives
The flavor profile is built with more than just chicken. Various seasonings and enhancers are added to round out the taste:
- Salt, Sea Salt, Potassium Chloride: Used for seasoning and sodium content. Potassium chloride is often used as a salt substitute or enhancer.
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and Yeast Extract: These are both common flavor enhancers used to provide a savory, umami taste.
- Natural Flavor: A general term for flavoring derived from natural sources.
- Beta-carotene: Used as a coloring agent to give the soup a more appealing hue.
- Lactic Acid: Serves as a preservative and adds a slight tang.
Comparison: Regular vs. Gluten-Free Great Value Cream of Chicken Soup
For those with dietary restrictions, Walmart offers a Great Value Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Condensed Soup. A side-by-side comparison reveals the key differences in their formulations, particularly regarding thickeners and potential allergens.
| Ingredient Category | Standard Great Value Soup | Gluten-Free Great Value Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Thickening Agent | Wheat Flour, Modified Food Starch | Cornstarch, Rice Flour, Modified Food Starch |
| Chicken | Cooked Chicken Meat, Cooked Mechanically Separated Chicken Meat | Cooked White Chicken Meat |
| Fats | Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil | Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil |
| Flavor Enhancers | MSG, Yeast Extract, Natural Flavor | Yeast Extract, Natural Flavor |
| Preservatives | Lactic Acid | Lactic Acid |
| Allergens | Contains milk, wheat, and soy | Contains milk and soy (gluten-free) |
Understanding the Role of Key Ingredients
For a home cook, understanding what each ingredient contributes can demystify the process of using canned soup in recipes or when making a homemade substitute. Here is a breakdown of the functions of some common ingredients in the Great Value soup:
- Thickeners: Ingredients like wheat flour, rice flour, and cornstarch are used to create the dense, condensed texture of the soup. They absorb moisture and become viscous when heated.
- Flavor enhancers: Additives such as MSG and yeast extract are used to amplify the savory flavor notes, making the soup taste richer and more concentrated than it otherwise would.
- Fats: Ingredients like chicken fat and soybean oil contribute to the smooth mouthfeel and creamy texture. They also carry and distribute the soup's flavor.
- Preservatives: Preservatives like lactic acid are added to extend the shelf life of the condensed soup, ensuring it remains safe and flavorful for a long period.
- Coloring: Beta-carotene is a natural coloring agent that helps standardize the product's appearance, ensuring each can has the same creamy color.
Is Great Value Cream of Chicken Soup Vegetarian?
No, the regular and gluten-free versions of Great Value cream of chicken soup are not vegetarian. Both varieties contain chicken meat and chicken fat, which are derived from animals. For individuals following a vegetarian diet, it is essential to find a specific cream of mushroom or other vegetable-based soup, as chicken is a primary ingredient here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ingredients in Great Value cream of chicken soup consist of chicken broth, cooked chicken meat, fats, and thickeners, all blended with various flavor enhancers, seasonings, and preservatives. The key takeaway is the distinction between the regular version, which contains wheat flour and MSG, and the gluten-free version, which uses rice flour and cornstarch as thickeners. Shoppers with dietary restrictions for gluten must specifically purchase the labeled gluten-free product. For most consumers, the convenience and flavor profile are the primary draw, but the high sodium content is a notable nutritional aspect to consider. By examining the ingredient list, consumers can make informed choices about what they are adding to their casseroles and soups, and even look into making homemade versions for a fresher, lower-sodium alternative, as explored in many home cooking recipes. For more information on food product ingredients and safety, you can consult the Food and Drug Administration.
