ANNIE CHUN'S, KOREAN SWEET & SPICY HOT PEPPER PASTE
ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste receives a FoodScore of 23/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
FoodScore: 23/100 (Avoid) for ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste.
Contains 28g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Provides 5g of fiber per 100g, a notable positive nutrient.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it is a processed food.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -10 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
5g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
1200mg
52% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5g)+6
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (28g)-25
Sodium (1200mg)-6
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 23
ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste scores 23 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high added sugar content, which is 28g per 100g, resulting in a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list shows brown sugar as the first ingredient in the hot pepper paste, indicating its prominent role in the product's formulation. Additionally, the product contains 1200mg of sodium per 100g, incurring a -6 point penalty, which is substantial for a condiment. As a NOVA 3 (processed) food, it also receives a -5 point penalty. On the positive side, ANNIE CHUN'S provides 5g of fiber per 100g, earning a +6 bonus, and 5g of protein, contributing +1. It also offers 1.8mg of iron (10% DV), adding a +2 bonus. However, these positive contributions are outweighed by the penalties from added sugar, sodium, and its processed nature. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has lower added sugar and sodium, this product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in annie chun's, korean sweet & spicy hot pepper paste actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This hot pepper paste provides 5g of fiber per 100g, which is a notable amount for a condiment. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While typically consumed in small portions, this product can contribute to your daily fiber intake when used as part of a balanced meal.
Contains Iron
ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste contains 1.8mg of iron per 100g, which is 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. Including sources of iron in the diet is important for preventing iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. Even in small serving sizes, this can be a minor contributor to iron intake.
Flavor Enhancement for Meals
While not a direct nutrient benefit, this paste can serve as a flavor enhancer for various dishes. Its sweet and spicy profile can make meals more palatable and enjoyable, potentially encouraging the consumption of otherwise plain foods like vegetables or lean proteins. Using small amounts to add flavor can be a strategy to make healthier meals more appealing without significantly impacting overall nutrient intake.
ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste receives a FoodScore of 23/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Korean hot pepper paste, or gochujang, is typically used as a condiment or cooking ingredient in Korean cuisine. It's often incorporated into marinades, dipping sauces, stews, and stir-fries. Given its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile, it's usually consumed in small portions, such as a tablespoon or less per serving.
Use sparingly as a flavor base for marinades for meats or tofu, diluting it with other ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to distribute the flavor.
Incorporate a small amount into homemade salad dressings or dipping sauces to add a sweet and spicy kick, balancing it with vinegar or citrus juice.
Mix a teaspoon into a bowl of plain rice or noodles with vegetables and a protein source to create a more flavorful and satisfying meal.
Consider pairing it with fresh vegetables or lean proteins to enhance their taste, helping to increase overall nutrient density of your meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (1200mg per 100g) in ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should use this product in very small quantities. The product also lists wheat and soybean as ingredients, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the presence of wheat flour and wheat. Those with soy allergies should also exercise caution. The added sugar content (28g per 100g) is also significant, and individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for this when consuming the product.
Is ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste healthy?
ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste receives a FoodScore of 23/100, indicating it is not a primary source of beneficial nutrients and is high in added sugar and sodium. While it offers some fiber and iron, its overall nutritional profile suggests moderation is key.
How does ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste compare to other hot sauces?
Compared to many generic hot sauces like Frank's RedHot, ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste tends to have a higher added sugar content due to ingredients like brown sugar. Sodium levels can vary widely across hot sauces, so checking individual labels is important. This product is distinct in its sweet and spicy profile, which often means more sugar than purely savory or acidic hot sauces.
What is 'hot pepper powder' in the ingredient list?
Hot pepper powder is a general term for dried and ground chili peppers. In Korean cuisine, this often refers to gochugaru, which is a specific type of chili powder known for its vibrant color and moderate heat. It contributes to the product's characteristic spiciness and flavor profile.
What is a typical serving size for this hot pepper paste?
The declared serving size for ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste is 1 tablespoon. Given its concentrated flavor and nutrient density, particularly in terms of added sugar and sodium, it is advisable to stick to this serving size or even smaller portions when incorporating it into meals.
Can I use this paste in vegetarian or vegan dishes?
Yes, ANNIE CHUN'S Korean Sweet & Spicy Hot Pepper Paste is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Its ingredients, including hot pepper paste, spirit vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame, are plant-based. It can be a versatile ingredient for adding flavor to plant-based stir-fries, marinades, and sauces.