Key findings
- 1Unsweetened applesauce is just cooked, mashed apples, one of the simplest commercially available foods
- 2In our analysis, applesauce products average a Processing Score of 3.3, which is Level 2
- 3Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) added to prevent browning is the same compound found naturally in citrus, not an industrial processing agent
- 4Flavored applesauce pouches marketed to children often contain "natural flavors" and added sugars not found in basic applesauce
Why is Applesauce Level 2 on average?
Unsweetened applesauce is one of the simplest commercially produced foods: apples are washed, cored, cooked in water or steam until soft, and mashed or pureed. The heat naturally breaks down the cell walls, releasing pectin and creating the sauce texture without any thickeners. Some brands add ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to prevent browning; this is the same compound naturally found in citrus and is not an industrial additive. The processing divergence happens with sweetened versions: added cane sugar makes applesauce slightly more processed (still simple), but high fructose corn syrup, "natural flavors," and artificial colors (in flavored varieties like "strawberry applesauce") push it further. Cinnamon applesauce with just apples and cinnamon is as simple as plain; cinnamon is a ground spice, not a processing additive. In our analysis, applesauce products average a Processing Score of 3.3, which is Level 2.
How 1,223 applesauce products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Applesauce brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a applesauce label
- 1
Unsweetened applesauce should list one ingredient: apples (possibly with ascorbic acid and water)
- 2
"No sugar added" and "unsweetened" are the labels that indicate the simplest applesauce
- 3
Cinnamon applesauce with just apples and cinnamon is as simple as plain
- 4
Flavored varieties (strawberry, mixed berry) often add artificial colors and "natural flavors"
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Frequently asked questions
Is Mott's applesauce ultra-processed?
Mott's unsweetened varieties list apples, water, and ascorbic acid. Sweetened varieties add a sweetener, so check the jar for sugar or high fructose corn syrup. The processing level depends on which Mott's variety you choose; search Mott's to see its own score.
Is applesauce good for you?
From a processing standpoint, unsweetened applesauce is among the least processed commercial foods. It retains most of the apple's nutrients except fiber lost in some smooth varieties. Chunky applesauce retains more fiber than smooth.
Are applesauce pouches processed?
Pouches of unsweetened applesauce (just apples) are as simple as the jarred kind; the pouch is just packaging. Flavored pouches marketed to children often add sugar, "natural flavors," and other ingredients, which makes them more processed. Check the ingredient list, not the packaging format.