HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ ., L.P. SAUCE
HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not a recommended choice.
It contains 16.47g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed and lacks beneficial nutrients.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this sauce offers no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
Use sparingly as a condiment, being mindful of its contribution to daily added sugar and sodium intake.
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
16.47g
33% of Daily Value
Sodium
882.35mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (16.5g)-21
Sodium (882.4mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily driven by its nutritional profile and processing. The product contains 16.47g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -21 points. This amount is significant, especially considering a typical serving size. Additionally, the sodium content is 882.35mg per 100g, leading to a -4 point penalty. The ingredient list, which includes high fructose corn syrup, soybean oil, and various preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, classifies it as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food, resulting in a -10 point penalty. This classification indicates a food that has undergone extensive industrial processing and typically contains ingredients not commonly used in home cooking. Furthermore, the product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients such as potassium, calcium, iron, or vitamins, contributing to -15 points for empty calories. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, this sauce provides none of these nutritional benefits, highlighting its lack of nutrient density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in heinz north america, division of h.j. heinz ., l.p. sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, this sauce can be used in small quantities to add flavor to certain meals. Its distinct taste profile may enhance the palatability of otherwise bland foods, potentially encouraging consumption of other more nutritious components of a meal. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional impact of the dish when incorporating this product.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This product offers convenience as a pre-made condiment, saving time in meal preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking, having ready-to-use sauces can simplify the process of assembling meals. The HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE can be a quick addition to dishes, though its nutritional contribution should be balanced with other ingredients.
Long Shelf Life
The presence of preservatives like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate contributes to a long shelf life, reducing food waste. This can be a practical benefit for households that do not use condiments frequently or prefer to stock up. A longer shelf life means the product remains safe for consumption over an extended period, provided it is stored correctly.
HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
This sauce is typically used as a condiment, added to dishes after cooking or during meal assembly. Common uses include dipping, spreading on sandwiches, or mixing into other sauces. A typical portion is 1 tablespoon, but it's easy to over-consume condiments, leading to higher intake of added sugars and sodium.
Use this sauce sparingly as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient, to manage added sugar and sodium intake.
Consider diluting with a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to reduce the intensity and potentially use less.
Pair with nutrient-dense foods like grilled lean protein or vegetables to balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
Measure your portion (e.g., 1 tablespoon) to avoid unintentional overconsumption of added sugars and sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains high fructose corn syrup as a primary sweetener, which contributes significantly to its added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should be mindful of this. The sodium content is also notable, and those on sodium-restricted diets should limit intake. The presence of sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate as preservatives, while generally recognized as safe, may be a consideration for individuals sensitive to food additives. The product also contains natural flavors, which can be a blend of substances and may be a concern for those with specific sensitivities or who prefer to avoid complex flavorings. No major allergens are explicitly declared in the ingredient list, but consumers with severe allergies should always verify manufacturing practices.
Is HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE is not considered a healthy food choice. It is an ultra-processed product with no beneficial micronutrients, protein, or fiber. Its high content of added sugar and sodium are the primary reasons for its low score.
How does HEINZ NORTH AMERICA, DIVISION OF H.J. HEINZ CO., L.P. SAUCE compare to other condiments?
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would offer protein and calcium, this sauce provides no comparable nutritional benefits. When compared to other condiments like a plain mustard (such as French's Classic Yellow Mustard), this sauce typically has higher added sugar and similar or higher sodium levels. It is important to check the nutrition facts for specific comparisons.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in this sauce for sweetness and to enhance flavor and texture. From a nutritional perspective, it contributes to the added sugar content, which is a factor in the product's low FoodScore.
What is a recommended portion size for this sauce?
The declared serving size is 1 tablespoon. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage intake of added sugars and sodium. Using larger amounts will significantly increase the contribution of these components to your daily diet.
Can this sauce be part of a balanced diet?
While this sauce can be included in a diet, it should be consumed in very small quantities and infrequently due to its low nutritional value and high content of added sugar and sodium. It does not contribute positively to a balanced diet and should not be relied upon for essential nutrients.