A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 7/100 (Avoid) due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL has a FoodScore of 7/100, indicating it is not a recommended daily choice.
This sauce contains 1647.06mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
With 8.27g of added sugar per 100g, it contributes to overall sugar consumption.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
Use sparingly to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Scores -26 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
8.27g
17% of Daily Value
Sodium
1647.06mg
72% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.3g)-9
Sodium (1647.1mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 7
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 7/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by several nutritional factors. The product contains 8.27g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty in the scoring system. Additionally, its high sodium content of 1647.06mg per 100g is another major contributor to the low score, as excessive sodium intake is a public health concern. The ingredient list includes corn syrup, a source of added sugar, and potassium sorbate for preservation, which are common in ultra-processed foods. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, which automatically incurs a substantial penalty. The product also provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients, leading to an 'empty calorie' penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein and calcium, A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL lacks these nutritional contributions, further highlighting its low score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in a.1. sauce, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL can be used in small quantities to enhance the flavor profile of certain meals. Its distinct savory and tangy taste can make lean proteins or vegetables more palatable for some individuals, potentially encouraging consumption of otherwise plain foods. This can be a useful tool for those looking to add a specific taste dimension without adding fat or significant calories, provided portion sizes are carefully managed.
Low in Fat and Cholesterol
This product is naturally free of total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat, as well as cholesterol. For individuals monitoring their fat intake or those on a low-fat diet, A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL does not contribute to these dietary components. This characteristic means it can be incorporated into meals without adding to the fat content, which is a consideration for heart health and weight management, assuming other nutritional aspects are balanced.
Convenient and Shelf-Stable
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL offers convenience as a shelf-stable condiment that can be stored for extended periods. Its ready-to-use format means it requires no preparation, making it a quick option for adding flavor to meals. This can be beneficial for busy individuals or those seeking easy ways to season food without needing fresh ingredients, contributing to mealtime efficiency.
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 7/100 (Avoid) due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL is typically used as a condiment for cooked meats, particularly beef, or as an ingredient in marinades and glazes. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, but due to its concentrated flavor and high sodium, smaller amounts may be sufficient for many dishes. Overuse can quickly lead to excessive sodium intake.
Use A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL sparingly as a finishing sauce for grilled or roasted lean proteins like chicken or pork to add flavor without excessive amounts.
Dilute the sauce with a low-sodium broth or vinegar when using it in marinades to reduce the overall sodium concentration of your dish.
Consider using a smaller amount of A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL and complementing with fresh herbs or spices to boost flavor naturally.
Pair with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables to help balance the meal's nutritional profile and add fiber.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be particularly mindful of A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL due to its high sodium content of 1647.06mg per 100g. This can quickly contribute to a significant portion of the daily recommended limit. The presence of corn syrup means it also contributes to added sugar intake, which individuals managing blood sugar levels should consider. While generally recognized as safe, the preservative potassium sorbate and the artificial coloring caramel color are components of ultra-processed foods. For most healthy adults, small, infrequent portions are unlikely to cause issues, but those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities should review the ingredient list carefully.
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 7/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high sodium and added sugar content, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food, contribute to this low score. It provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber.
How does A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL compare to other steak sauces?
Compared to other common steak sauces like Heinz 57 Sauce, A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL generally has a similar nutritional profile, often high in sodium and added sugars. Many branded steak sauces are ultra-processed condiments designed for flavor enhancement rather than nutritional contribution. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What is 'caramel color' in A.1. SAUCE?
Caramel color is a food additive used to give foods a brown color. In A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL, it is used to achieve its characteristic dark hue. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, it is an artificial coloring agent and contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a typical serving size for A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL?
The typical serving size for A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL is 1 tablespoon. It's important to adhere to this portion size, or even less, to manage intake of sodium and added sugars. Using larger amounts can quickly lead to exceeding daily recommendations for these nutrients.
Can A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL be used in cooking, or just as a condiment?
A.1. SAUCE, ORIGINAL can be used both as a condiment and as an ingredient in cooking. It is often incorporated into marinades, glazes, or even meatloaf recipes to add flavor. When cooking with it, consider its sodium and added sugar content and adjust other ingredients in your recipe accordingly to maintain nutritional balance.