CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its **high added sugar content**.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to significant nutritional drawbacks.
Contains 26.83g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
High in sodium with 1070mg per 100g, exceeding daily recommendations.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Use sparingly as a condiment to manage sugar and sodium intake.
Scores -41 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
26.83g
54% of Daily Value
Sodium
1070mg
47% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (26.8g)-25
Sodium (1070mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE scores 0 out of 100, primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and sodium, alongside its ultra-processed nature. Per 100g, this product contains 26.83g of added sugar, which significantly contributes to its 'empty calories' penalty. The ingredient list highlights brown sugar (sugar, invert sugar, molasses) as the second most abundant ingredient, directly after tomato puree, indicating a substantial sugar load. Furthermore, the product contains 1070mg of sodium per 100g, a considerable amount that exceeds typical recommendations for a single serving. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, which incurs an additional penalty in the FoodScore system. While it contains minimal protein (1.67g) and no fiber or fat, it also lacks meaningful amounts of beneficial micronutrients, with most vitamins and minerals at 0% DV. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE offers very little nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in campbell's sauces barbecue actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE can provide a distinctive sweet and smoky flavor to certain meals. When used in small quantities, it can enhance the palatability of grilled meats or plant-based protein dishes, making them more appealing. Its specific flavor profile, derived from ingredients like natural smoke flavoring and spices, can be a useful tool for culinary variety without significantly altering the nutritional balance of an otherwise healthy meal.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This product offers convenience for quick meal assembly. As a pre-made sauce, it saves time in the kitchen, which can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules. It eliminates the need to combine multiple ingredients to create a barbecue flavor, allowing for faster preparation of dishes like pulled pork or chicken sandwiches. This convenience can support home cooking over less healthy takeout options, provided the overall meal is balanced.
Source of Potassium
While not a primary source, this sauce does contribute a small amount of potassium to the diet. With 250mg per 100g, or 5% of the Daily Value, it can add to your daily intake of this essential mineral. Potassium plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. However, it is important to note that this contribution comes with a high amount of added sugar and sodium, so it should not be relied upon as a significant source of potassium.
CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Barbecue sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or cooking ingredient for grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. Common portion sizes are small, often a tablespoon or two, but it's easy to over-pour and accumulate extra sugar and sodium.
Use CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE as a flavor accent rather than a primary sauce to control sugar and sodium intake.
Dilute the sauce with vinegar or unsweetened tomato paste to reduce its intensity and overall sugar content per serving.
Pair with lean proteins and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Measure your serving size (e.g., 1-2 tablespoons) to monitor added sugar and sodium more effectively.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals managing blood sugar levels should be particularly mindful of the high added sugar content in CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE, which includes brown sugar, invert sugar, and molasses. The significant sodium level (1070mg per 100g) is also a concern for those monitoring blood pressure or with sodium-sensitive conditions. While the product does not list common allergens like milk, soy, or nuts, the presence of a sulfiting agent in the Worcestershire sauce concentrate could be an issue for individuals with sulfite sensitivities. Always review the full ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (26.83g per 100g) and sodium (1070mg per 100g), and provides minimal beneficial nutrients. It is best used sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a significant part of a meal.
How does CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to other popular barbecue sauces like Sweet Baby Ray's Original Barbecue Sauce, CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE shares a similar nutritional profile, often being high in both added sugar and sodium. Many branded barbecue sauces are ultra-processed (NOVA class 4) and offer limited nutritional benefits. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific brands to compare added sugar and sodium levels.
What is 'natural smoke flavoring' in the ingredients?
Natural smoke flavoring is a common ingredient used to impart a smoky taste without actual smoking. It is derived from burning wood and capturing the smoke components. While 'natural,' it is a processed ingredient that contributes to the overall flavor profile of the sauce, but not to its nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this barbecue sauce?
A reasonable portion size for CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE is typically 1-2 tablespoons (around 15-30g). This helps to limit the intake of added sugar and sodium. Using it as a condiment rather than a main sauce can help manage overall consumption and integrate it into a balanced diet.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, you can use CAMPBELL'S SAUCES BARBECUE as a marinade. However, be aware that marinating with this sauce will also infuse the food with its high sugar and sodium content. Consider diluting it with other ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice to reduce the concentration of these components in your final dish.