A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its **high levels of added sugar and sodium**, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
This A.1. dry rub receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 28g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a condiment.
With 6400mg of sodium per 100g, this product is very high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, similar to many other dry rubs.
Use in very small quantities to minimize intake of added sugar and sodium.
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
28g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
6400mg
278% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (28g)-25
Sodium (6400mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and sodium. The ingredient list begins with sugar, and the product contains 28g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its 'empty calories' penalty. Additionally, it provides 6400mg of sodium per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a seasoning. The presence of multiple processed ingredients like maltodextrin, refiner's syrup, and corn syrup, along with various flavor enhancers and anticaking agents, classifies this product as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. While it receives a small bonus for Vitamin A content (222% DV per 100g), this is outweighed by the high levels of less desirable components. Compared to a generic unbranded dry rub, this A.1. product's nutritional profile is typical for the category, often featuring high sodium and added sugars.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in a.1. dry rub, sweet mesquite bbq, sweet mesquite bbq actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
This dry rub can be used to impart a sweet and smoky flavor to various dishes, particularly grilled or barbecued meats. Its blend of spices, including ancho peppers and chipotle chili pepper, provides a distinct taste profile. When used in very small quantities, it can enhance the palatability of foods without significantly altering the overall nutritional intake of the meal, making it useful for culinary variety.
Source of Vitamin A
A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 222% of the Daily Value per 100g. This is likely due to the inclusion of ingredients like paprika and tomatoes, which are natural sources of this vitamin. Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. However, given the small serving size typically consumed, the actual contribution to daily Vitamin A intake from a single serving would be minimal.
Convenient Seasoning Option
For consumers seeking a quick and easy way to season food, this dry rub offers convenience and consistent flavor. It eliminates the need to combine multiple individual spices, which can be time-consuming. Its shelf-stable nature also makes it a practical pantry item for infrequent use in specific recipes where a sweet mesquite BBQ flavor is desired.
A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high levels of added sugar and sodium, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Dry rubs like A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ are typically applied directly to meats, poultry, or vegetables before cooking, especially grilling or roasting. They are designed to create a flavorful crust and infuse the food with a specific taste profile. A common portion is usually a teaspoon or two per serving of food.
Use this dry rub sparingly to control added sugar and sodium intake; a light dusting is often sufficient for flavor.
Pair with lean proteins like chicken breast or fish to balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal, focusing on nutrient-dense main ingredients.
Consider making your own dry rub at home using individual spices to reduce added sugar and sodium, allowing for greater control over ingredients.
Apply the rub just before cooking or allow it to sit for a short period to infuse flavor, but avoid excessive marinating due to the high salt content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (6400mg per 100g) and added sugar (28g per 100g) in A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ. Individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels, such as those with hypertension or diabetes, should use this product in very small quantities or seek lower-sodium and lower-sugar alternatives. The ingredient list includes natural flavor (includes smoke) and autolyzed yeast extract, which can contribute to the overall flavor profile but also indicate a highly processed food. While no major allergens are explicitly declared in the primary ingredients, those with sensitivities to specific spices or ingredients like celery should review the label carefully.
A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ is not considered healthy, scoring 0/100 on FoodScore. This is primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and sodium, which are significant even in small serving sizes. While it offers some Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile is characteristic of an ultra-processed condiment designed for flavor rather than nutritional density.
How does A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ compare to a generic BBQ dry rub?
A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ is nutritionally similar to many generic BBQ dry rubs available on the market. Most dry rubs in this category, including brands like McCormick Grill Mates, often feature sugar and salt as primary ingredients, leading to comparable high levels of added sugar and sodium. Consumers looking to reduce these components may need to explore homemade options.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, often corn, rice, or potato. In A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ, it likely functions as a bulking agent, thickener, or anticaking agent, helping to maintain the rub's texture and prevent clumping. It is a rapidly digestible carbohydrate and contributes to the overall 'empty calories' of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dry rub?
The declared serving size for A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ is 2 teaspoons. Given its high sodium and added sugar content, it is advisable to stick to this small portion size or even less, especially if you are consuming other foods that also contribute significant amounts of these nutrients. Using it as a light seasoning rather than a heavy coating is recommended.
Can I use this dry rub for purposes other than BBQ?
While marketed for BBQ, A.1. DRY RUB, SWEET MESQUITE BBQ can be used to add a sweet and smoky flavor to various dishes. It could season roasted vegetables, chili, or even popcorn in very small amounts. However, always be mindful of the flavor intensity and the nutritional impact of its high sugar and sodium content, regardless of the application.