ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
This product contains 30g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 785.71mg of sodium per 100g, this sauce is high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, ELMORE SMITH'S is an ultra-processed food.
Use this sauce sparingly to manage intake of added sugars and sodium.
Scores -33 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
30g
60% of Daily Value
Sodium
785.71mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30g)-25
Sodium (785.7mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD scores 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary reason for this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, at 30g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like SUGAR and MOLASSES are listed early, indicating their prominence. The product also contains 785.71mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -3 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, ELMORE SMITH'S is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point deduction. Furthermore, the product is penalized -15 points for being largely composed of empty calories, offering little protein or fiber. While it receives a small bonus of +2 points for Vitamin A content (40% DV), this is insufficient to offset the numerous penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein and calcium, this BBQ sauce offers very few beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in elmore smith's mild gourmet bbq sauce, mild actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE provides 40% Daily Value of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential micronutrient important for vision, immune function, and skin health. While this sauce is not a primary source of vitamins, it contributes a notable amount of Vitamin A, which can be a small part of your daily intake when consumed in moderation.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
This BBQ sauce can be used to enhance the palatability of less favored foods, particularly vegetables. For individuals who struggle to meet their daily vegetable intake, a small amount of a flavorful sauce like ELMORE SMITH'S can make plain vegetables more appealing, potentially encouraging greater consumption of nutrient-dense foods. The sweet and savory profile can transform simple steamed or roasted vegetables.
Convenient Flavoring Agent
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE offers a convenient way to add flavor to meals without extensive preparation. Its ready-to-use format means it can quickly elevate dishes like grilled chicken, pulled pork, or even plant-based protein sources. This convenience can be beneficial for busy individuals looking to add a familiar taste to their home-cooked meals, though portion control is important due to its nutritional profile.
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
BBQ sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons. Due to its high added sugar and sodium content, it's best used sparingly to avoid overconsumption of these ingredients.
Use ELMORE SMITH'S as a flavorful glaze for lean proteins like chicken breast or tofu, applying a small amount towards the end of cooking.
Dilute the sauce with a little vinegar or water to reduce the intensity of its sugar and sodium, making it stretch further.
Pair this sauce with fiber-rich vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Measure your portion (e.g., 1-2 tablespoons) to control added sugar and sodium intake effectively.
Consider making your own BBQ sauce from scratch using tomato paste, vinegar, and spices, allowing you to control the sugar and sodium levels.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high added sugar content in ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, which comes from SUGAR and MOLASSES. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product in very limited quantities. The high sodium content (785.71mg per 100g) is also a consideration for those monitoring their blood pressure. The ingredient list includes CARAMEL COLOR, which some individuals choose to avoid. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
Is ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD healthy?
ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice. It is high in added sugars (30g per 100g) and sodium (785.71mg per 100g), and is classified as ultra-processed. While it offers a small amount of Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed sparingly.
How does ELMORE SMITH'S compare to other BBQ sauces?
Compared to many other branded BBQ sauces, ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high levels of added sugar and sodium. For example, a brand like Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ Sauce also lists sugar and high-fructose corn syrup early in its ingredients. Many BBQ sauces fall into the ultra-processed category due to their ingredient composition.
What is 'CARAMEL COLOR' in the ingredient list?
CARAMEL COLOR is a food coloring agent used to give the sauce its characteristic brown hue. It is one of the oldest and most widely used food colorings. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some consumers prefer to avoid it due to concerns about certain manufacturing byproducts, though these are typically present in very small amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this BBQ sauce?
A reasonable portion size for ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD is typically 1-2 tablespoons. Given its high added sugar and sodium content, limiting your intake to this amount helps manage your overall consumption of these ingredients. Using it as a condiment rather than a primary ingredient can help with portion control.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, you can use ELMORE SMITH'S MILD GOURMET BBQ SAUCE, MILD as a marinade. However, be aware that marinating with this sauce will contribute significant amounts of sugar and sodium to your food. For a healthier approach, consider using a smaller amount of the sauce or diluting it with other ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice to reduce its concentration.