HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are its high levels of added sugar and sodium, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH scores 3/100, indicating it is not a beneficial choice for regular consumption.
This relish contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 800mg of sodium per 100g, it is considerably higher in sodium than generic relish.
Classified as NOVA class 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
Use sparingly as a condiment to flavor dishes, rather than a primary ingredient.
Scores -39 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
14g
28% of Daily Value
Sodium
800mg
35% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (800mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 3
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH earns a FoodScore of 3 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its nutritional profile, particularly the presence of significant amounts of added sugar and sodium. The product contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -18 points. Additionally, the 800mg of sodium per 100g contributes another -4 points to the score. The inclusion of high fructose corn syrup as a primary sweetener is a key factor in the added sugar content. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point penalty. The absence of beneficial macronutrients like protein and fiber, along with a lack of significant micronutrients, leads to an 'empty calories' penalty of -15 points. Compared to a generic unbranded relish, HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH has a higher sodium content and similar added sugar levels, making it a less favorable option from a nutritional standpoint.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in heinz hot dog relish actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH can provide a distinctive sweet and tangy flavor to certain meals. Its specific taste profile, derived from cucumbers, cabbage, and mustard, can complement dishes like hot dogs and sausages. When used in small quantities, it can enhance the palatability of a meal without significantly altering its overall nutritional balance, especially if the main dish is otherwise balanced.
Convenience as a Condiment
This product offers convenience as a ready-to-use condiment. For individuals seeking a quick and easy way to add flavor to their food, it eliminates the need for preparing relish from scratch. Its long shelf life, supported by preservatives like potassium sorbate, also contributes to its convenience, making it a staple for many households.
Fits Specific Dietary Preferences
For individuals following a fat-free diet, HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH can be a suitable condiment choice as it contains 0g of total fat per 100g. This characteristic allows it to be incorporated into meals where fat intake is being carefully managed, provided that the added sugar and sodium content are also considered within the context of the overall diet.
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are its high levels of added sugar and sodium, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH is typically used as a condiment, most commonly with hot dogs, hamburgers, or other grilled meats. A standard serving size is 1 tablespoon, which provides a concentrated burst of flavor. Due to its high added sugar and sodium content, moderation is key to avoid excessive intake.
Use HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Pair with lean protein sources and plenty of vegetables to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Consider diluting with plain vinegar or adding fresh chopped herbs to reduce the intensity of its flavor, potentially leading to using less.
Measure your serving (1 Tbsp) to stay mindful of the added sugar and sodium contribution to your meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the ingredients in HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH, particularly the high fructose corn syrup and FD&C Yellow No. 5. High fructose corn syrup contributes significantly to the added sugar content, which individuals managing blood sugar levels or overall sugar intake should monitor. FD&C Yellow No. 5 is an artificial food coloring that some individuals may choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities, though scientific evidence on widespread adverse effects is inconclusive. The product also contains potassium sorbate as a preservative. Individuals with sodium-sensitive hypertension should be mindful of the 800mg of sodium per 100g, as this can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, even in small serving sizes.
HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption, scoring 3/100. Its nutritional profile is characterized by high levels of added sugar (14g per 100g) and sodium (800mg per 100g), and it is classified as an ultra-processed food. It offers minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
How does HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH compare to other relishes?
Compared to a generic unbranded hot dog relish, HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar content. For instance, some brands like Vlasic Sweet Relish also feature high fructose corn syrup and similar sodium levels. Always check the nutrition facts panel of specific products for direct comparisons.
What is high fructose corn syrup and why is it in this relish?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH to provide sweetness and improve texture and shelf stability. While chemically similar to table sugar, its presence contributes to the product's high added sugar content, which is a factor in its low FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH?
A reasonable portion size for HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH is 1 tablespoon. This amount helps to manage the intake of added sugar and sodium. Consuming larger quantities regularly would significantly increase your intake of these components, potentially exceeding daily recommendations.
Does HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH contain any artificial colors?
Yes, HEINZ HOT DOG RELISH contains FD&C Yellow No. 5, which is an artificial food coloring. This ingredient is listed on the label and contributes to the product's visual appearance. Some consumers prefer to avoid artificial colors in their diet.