Bruschetta (Tomato & Basil) — MUNCH

Munch or Dump rates Bruschetta (Tomato & Basil) by Trader Joe's MUNCH — score 100/90.

This is basically chopped fresh tomatoes with garlic, basil and a splash of oil and vinegar. The added sugar and canola oil are minor seasoning, not the point of the product. For a refrigerated topping it is about as clean as it gets.

Why this verdict

• Short list led by real tomatoes, garlic and basil
• No gums, stabilizers, preservatives or artificial anything
• Added sugar is a trace seasoning, not a dominant ingredient
• Canola oil is the only refined component and it is blended with olive oil

Ingredients (8)

• Tomatoes (safe) — Whole vegetable base.
• GARLIC (safe) — Whole aromatic.
• basil (safe) — Real herb — a genuine flavor component.
• olive oil (safe) — Minimally processed oil.
• CANOLA OIL (moderate) — Refined seed oil in small amount.
• Sugar (caution) — One of two added sugars; the product is high in total sugar.
• Salt (moderate) — Adds sodium; the only reason to watch portions if you are sodium-sensitive.
• White balsamic vinegar (safe) — Natural acidulant.