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Search Prego products →Prego vs Ragu Comparison
The two best-known jarred pasta sauce brands both use tomato puree as a base but add sugar, soybean oil, and citric acid to extend shelf life and broaden flavor appeal. Their formulations are more similar than their marketing suggests.
Condiments & SaucesQuick Answer
Both are Level 3-4 with comparable processing. Both add sugar (or high fructose corn syrup in some Ragu varieties), soybean oil, and citric acid. Neither approaches the simplicity of a homemade tomato sauce or premium brands that use olive oil and no added sugar.
Prego vs Ragu
Prego
Ragu
Search our database for specific ragu products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Ragu products →Our Verdict
Both are Level 3-4 with comparable processing. Both add sugar (or high fructose corn syrup in some Ragu varieties), soybean oil, and citric acid. Neither approaches the simplicity of a homemade tomato sauce or premium brands that use olive oil and no added sugar.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a processing difference between Prego and Ragu?
Very little. Both use tomato puree with added sugar, soybean oil, salt, citric acid, and dried herbs. Some Ragu varieties have used HFCS, while Prego generally uses sugar. Both are Level 3-4 commercial pasta sauces.
What is a less processed pasta sauce?
Look for brands with short ingredient lists: tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, onions, basil, and salt. Rao's Homemade is a well-known example at Level 2. Homemade sauce from canned San Marzano tomatoes is Level 1-2.
Related Food Guides
Learn more about the individual foods in this comparison.