FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING, CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR
FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING scores 20/100, primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 20/100 (Avoid).
Contains 1170mg sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Provides 8.33g of saturated fat per 100g, a notable amount.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A 2 Tbsp serving contains 3.3g of added sugar.
Scores -13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.3g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
1170mg
51% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (3.3g)-1
Saturated fat (8.3g)-10
Sodium (1170mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 20
FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING receives a FoodScore of 20 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by several factors that detract from its nutritional profile. The product contains 1170mg of sodium per 100g, which is a significant amount and incurs a -6 penalty. Its saturated fat content of 8.33g per 100g also contributes substantially to the low score, resulting in a -10 penalty. Additionally, the presence of added sugar at 3.3g per 100g leads to a -1 penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives a further -10 penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple industrial ingredients like soybean oil and various additives. The concentrated nature of its fat content also results in a -3 penalty. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this dressing contains significantly more sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars, and lacks the beneficial micronutrients often found in less processed dairy products.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in food network kitchen creamy parmesan caesar dressing, creamy parmesan caesar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Fat
This dressing provides 40g of total fat per 100g, with soybean oil as the primary ingredient. While a significant portion of this is saturated fat, the overall fat content can contribute to satiety when consumed in appropriate portions. Fats are essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, though this product does not contribute significantly to micronutrient intake. It can serve as a component in meals where additional fat is desired for flavor or texture.
Enhances Flavor of Meals
The combination of Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese, and various spices like dried garlic and black pepper in FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING can significantly enhance the palatability of otherwise plain foods. For individuals looking to add a creamy, savory, and tangy flavor profile to salads or other dishes, this dressing can be a convenient option. Its strong flavor means a smaller amount may be sufficient to achieve the desired taste.
Convenient Meal Addition
As a pre-made dressing, this product offers convenience for meal preparation. It eliminates the need to gather and mix multiple ingredients to create a Caesar-style dressing from scratch. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking a quick way to add flavor to vegetables, proteins, or grain bowls. Its ready-to-use format supports efficient meal assembly.
FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING scores 20/100, primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Caesar dressing is typically used to dress salads, but it can also serve as a marinade or a condiment for various dishes. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile, portion control is key to integrating it into a balanced diet. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons.
Use a measured amount, such as the recommended 2 tablespoons, to manage intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Pair with a large portion of fresh, non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake, balancing the overall meal.
Consider diluting with a small amount of water or lemon juice to reduce the intensity of flavor and overall nutrient density per serving.
Use as a dip for raw vegetables like carrots and celery, rather than solely on large salads, to help control portion size.
Explore making your own Caesar dressing from scratch with extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and less added salt to reduce processed ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This dressing contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The primary ingredient, soybean oil, is a common refined oil. The product also contains potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate, which are preservatives used to maintain product quality and extend shelf life. Individuals with sensitivities to these additives may wish to limit consumption. Allergens declared on the label include milk and egg, due to ingredients like Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The high sodium content (1170mg per 100g) means individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product sparingly.
Is FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING healthy?
FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING scores 20/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption. It is high in sodium (1170mg per 100g) and saturated fat (8.33g per 100g), and contains added sugars. It is also classified as an ultra-processed food, which generally suggests a lower nutritional quality compared to whole, unprocessed foods.
How does FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING compare to other Caesar dressings?
Compared to a generic Caesar dressing, FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING's nutritional profile is similar in its high sodium and fat content. For example, a comparable brand like Ken's Steak House Creamy Caesar Dressing also features soybean oil as a primary ingredient and similar levels of sodium and saturated fat. Many bottled Caesar dressings are ultra-processed and contain similar preservatives and added sugars.
What is 'natural flavor' in this dressing?
The term 'natural flavor' in FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or dairy products. While they originate from natural sources, these flavors are often highly processed and concentrated to achieve a specific taste profile. The exact components of 'natural flavor' are proprietary to the manufacturer and not disclosed on the label.
How much of this dressing can I eat daily?
Given its FoodScore of 20/100 and high levels of sodium and saturated fat, it is advisable to consume FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING in moderation. Adhering to the recommended serving size of 2 tablespoons (approximately 30g) will help manage intake of these components. For daily use, consider less processed alternatives or homemade dressings to reduce overall intake of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat.
Does this dressing contain real cheese?
Yes, FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN CREAMY PARMESAN CAESAR DRESSING lists 'Romano cheese made from cow's milk' and 'Parmesan cheese' in its ingredient list. These are genuine cheese ingredients, contributing to the flavor and texture of the dressing. However, they are part of a longer list of ingredients, including oils, sugars, and preservatives, which characterize it as an ultra-processed product.