Soups & sauces

Soup, onion, canned, condensed

FDC 171551cup (4 fl oz) (123 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 10 · +0 vs Soups & sauces median

Soup, onion, canned, condensed scores 10 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, Low band, ranking 29 of 60 in Soups & sauces. It brings no standout vitamin or mineral percentages, and at 46 calories per 100 g in the condensed form it is a low-energy base rather than a nutrient-dense one.

It is prepared by adding water or stock and often used as a base for French onion soup or casseroles, with a cup (4 fl oz, 123 g) as the condensed serving before dilution. The caveat is sodium: 516 mg per 100 g, a significant share of a day's intake from soup alone.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around soup, onion, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 3.1 g · 24%Carb 6.7 g · 52%Fat 1.4 g · 25%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories46 kcal2%
Total fat1.4 g2%
Saturated fat0.21 g1%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium516 mg22%
Carbohydrate6.7 g2%
Dietary fiber0.7 g3%
Sugars2.7 g
Protein3.1 g6%
Potassium56 mg1%
Calcium22 mg2%
Iron0.55 mg3%
Magnesium2 mg0%
Vitamin C1 mg1%
Vitamin A3 µg0%
Vitamin E0.22 mg1%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 171551

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the soups & sauces median

Nutrient density10 vs 10 median
Protein / 100 g3.1 vs 3.1 median
Fiber / 100 g0.7 vs 0.7 median
Sodium / 100 g516 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Sauce, cocktail, ready-to-serveDensity 11 vs 10Gravy, instant turkey, dryDensity 11 vs 10Soup, chicken noodle, dry, mixDensity 13 vs 10

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Condensed onion soup is a pantry staple, diluted with water or milk and heated as a simple soup, or used undiluted as the base for French onion soup once broth, toasted bread, and cheese are added. It also mixes into casseroles and pot roasts for flavor, and is the classic base for a sour cream onion dip served with chips or vegetables.

Unopened cans keep in the pantry; once opened, refrigerate any remaining soup in a sealed container and use it within a few days. At just 46 calories per 100g it is a low-calorie base, though sodium runs high at 516mg per 100g, so even a diluted cup serving (123g) carries a notable amount. It works best as a flavor base for casseroles and dips rather than a standalone meal.

Frequently asked questions about soup, onion

How many calories are in condensed onion soup?

It has 46 calories per 100g, or about 57 calories for a 4 fl oz cup serving (123g) before dilution.

Is condensed onion soup high in sodium?

Yes, it has 516mg sodium per 100g.

What else is condensed onion soup used for besides soup?

It is a common base for casseroles, pot roasts, and dips like sour cream onion dip.

View the USDA source record