FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidcondimentA.1.· 2 tsp

A.1., DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN

A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high sodium content** and the presence of **added sugars**.

  • This product has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not recommended for regular consumption.
  • A single serving contains 600mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
  • It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to generic spice blends, A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN contains added sugar and maltodextrin.
  • Use sparingly to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
  • Scores -32 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
11.67g
23% of Daily Value
Sodium
6000mg
261% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (11.7g)-14
Sodium (6000mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN scores 0 out of 100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant penalties for added sugar and sodium. Per 100g, the product contains 11.67g of added sugar, contributing -14 points to its score. The sodium content is notably high at 6000mg per 100g, resulting in a -12 point penalty. The ingredient list includes sugar and corn syrup solids, which are sources of these added sugars. Furthermore, the presence of maltodextrin and the overall formulation classify this product as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 point penalty. It also receives a -15 point penalty for empty calories, as it provides minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients. Compared to a generic unbranded cracked peppercorn, A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN contains added sweeteners and anti-caking agents, which are not typically found in a simple spice.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in a.1., dry rub cracked peppercorn actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes

A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN can be used to add flavor to meals, particularly meats, without adding fat. Its blend of spices, including pepper, onion, and garlic, provides a distinct taste profile that can enhance the palatability of various dishes. This can be useful for individuals looking to season food without relying on high-fat sauces or marinades. However, it is important to be mindful of the portion size due to its sodium content.

Convenience in Meal Preparation

This product offers convenience for quick seasoning, as it combines multiple spices into one blend. For busy individuals, having a pre-mixed dry rub can save time during meal preparation, eliminating the need to measure out individual spices. While convenient, the ultra-processed nature of the product means it contains ingredients like maltodextrin and silicon dioxide, which are not present in whole, unprocessed spices.

Alternative to Liquid Marinades

Using A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN can be an alternative to liquid marinades that may contain oils or other ingredients. For those aiming to control fat intake, a dry rub can provide flavor without the added liquid. However, consumers should be aware that while it avoids added fats, it introduces added sugar and high sodium, which are factors to consider for overall dietary balance.

How to eat it

A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN is typically used as a seasoning for meats like beef, pork, or chicken before grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. It's applied directly to the surface of the food. A common portion is 2 teaspoons, which provides a concentrated flavor. The main pitfall is using too much, leading to excessive sodium intake.

Use this rub sparingly on proteins like chicken or steak to enhance flavor without over-seasoning.
Combine with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the intense flavor and add fresh elements.
Consider making your own cracked peppercorn rub with whole spices to control sodium and added sugar.
Apply the rub just before cooking to prevent the meat from drying out due to the salt content.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN, which is 6000mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product very sparingly. The ingredient list also includes sugar and corn syrup solids, contributing to the added sugar content, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood glucose levels. Maltodextrin is another ingredient, a common food additive derived from starch, which can impact blood sugar. The product also contains silicon dioxide as an anti-caking agent, which is generally recognized as safe but indicates a higher level of processing. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label based on the provided ingredient list.

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Reader questions
Is A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN healthy?
A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high sodium content (6000mg per 100g) and the presence of added sugars (11.67g per 100g). It offers minimal essential nutrients like protein, fiber, or vitamins.
How does A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN compare to other spice blends?
Compared to a generic unbranded cracked peppercorn, A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN contains added sugar, maltodextrin, and silicon dioxide. A simple cracked peppercorn blend typically contains only pepper. For example, McCormick's Pure Ground Black Pepper contains only black pepper, without added sugars or anti-caking agents, making it a less processed option.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. In A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN, it likely functions to improve texture, aid in the even distribution of flavors, or act as a bulking agent. It is a source of carbohydrates and can impact blood sugar levels.
How much A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN can I use daily?
Given its high sodium content, it is advisable to use A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN in moderation. A typical serving size is 2 teaspoons, but even this small amount contributes to your daily sodium intake. For individuals monitoring sodium, using it occasionally and in small quantities is recommended to avoid exceeding dietary guidelines.
Does this product contain any artificial colors or flavors?
Based on the provided ingredient list, A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN does not explicitly list artificial colors or flavors. The ingredients are primarily spices, sugar, dried vegetables, salt, maltodextrin, corn syrup solids, and silicon dioxide. The term "spice" can be a general category, but typically refers to natural spices.
Is A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN suitable for a low-carb diet?
While the total carbohydrate content per serving might seem low due to the small serving size, A.1. DRY RUB CRACKED PEPPERCORN does contain sugar, maltodextrin, and corn syrup solids. These ingredients contribute carbohydrates and added sugars. Individuals following a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet should be mindful of these components and consider simpler spice blends without added sweeteners.

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Data & references