HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK
HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its very high content of added sugar.
This HEINZ BBQ sauce scores 2/100, indicating it is not a beneficial choice for regular consumption.
The primary nutritional concern is the 41g of added sugar per 100g.
It contains 794.87mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product offers no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
Use this sauce sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary component of a meal.
Scores -31 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
41g
82% of Daily Value
Sodium
794.87mg
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 (41g)-25
Sodium (794.9mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 2
HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE scores 2 out of 100, largely due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and sodium. Per 100g, this product contains 41g of added sugar, which is a significant amount and contributes to a substantial penalty in the FoodScore calculation. The ingredient list begins with sugar, followed by distilled white vinegar and tomato paste, indicating sugar is the most abundant ingredient. The product also contains molasses, another form of added sugar. With 794.87mg of sodium per 100g, it also incurs a penalty for its sodium content. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for being processed. The absence of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron means it provides minimal nutritional value, leading to an 'empty calories' penalty. Compared to a generic dairy product, which typically offers protein and calcium, this BBQ sauce provides none of these beneficial components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in heinz original sweet & thick bbq sauce, original sweet & thick actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE can be used to add flavor to meals. Its sweet and smoky profile can make lean proteins or vegetables more appealing, potentially encouraging consumption of otherwise plain foods. This can be particularly useful for individuals looking to introduce variety into their diet without adding significant fat or protein, as this sauce contains 0g of total fat and 0g of protein per 100g. It serves as a condiment to boost palatability.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This BBQ sauce offers convenience for meal preparation, allowing for quick flavor additions to various dishes. For busy individuals, having a ready-to-use sauce can simplify cooking and reduce the need for extensive seasoning. Its formulation with ingredients like corn starch contributes to its thick texture, making it suitable for marinades or glazes without requiring further thickening. This can save time in the kitchen when preparing meals.
Sodium Contribution for Specific Dietary Needs
For individuals who may require a higher sodium intake under specific medical guidance, the 794.87mg of sodium per 100g in this HEINZ product could contribute to meeting those needs. However, for the general population, this level is high and should be consumed with caution. It is important to note that this is a specific use case and not a general health recommendation, as most dietary guidelines advise limiting sodium intake.
HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its very high content of added sugar.
How to eat it
HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or glaze for grilled or baked meats, sandwiches, and sometimes vegetables. A common portion is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add flavor but also significant amounts of added sugar and sodium.
Use this BBQ sauce as a flavorful glaze for grilled chicken or pork, applying it towards the end of cooking to prevent burning.
Dilute the sauce with a small amount of vinegar or water to create a lighter marinade, reducing the overall sugar and sodium per serving.
Pair with fiber-rich vegetables like roasted 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 per meal.
Consider making your own BBQ sauce from scratch using tomato paste and spices to reduce added sugar and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be mindful of the high added sugar content in this product, with sugar being the first ingredient listed. The 41g of added sugar per 100g can significantly impact blood glucose. The high sodium content (794.87mg per 100g) should also be considered by individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. While the ingredient list does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, or nuts, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing, though not declared here. There are no specific additives in this formulation, such as artificial sweeteners or colors, that typically raise broad concerns beyond the sugar and sodium levels.
Is HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 2/100, HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is very high in added sugar (41g per 100g) and sodium (794.87mg per 100g), and provides no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients. It is best used sparingly as a condiment.
How does HEINZ BBQ sauce compare to other BBQ sauces?
Compared to many other BBQ sauces on the market, such as Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ Sauce, HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE often has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high added sugar and sodium. Many branded BBQ sauces are processed (NOVA class 3) and designed for flavor rather than nutritional density. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What is 'natural smoke flavor' in this BBQ sauce?
Natural smoke flavor is a food additive derived from burning wood and capturing the smoke components. It's used to impart a smoky taste without actual smoking. While it contributes to the flavor profile, it does not add nutritional value and is part of what makes this a processed food.
What is a typical serving size for this BBQ sauce?
The declared serving size for HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE is 2 tablespoons. This portion contains a notable amount of added sugar and sodium. Being mindful of this serving size can help manage your intake of these components, especially if you use it frequently.
Can I use this BBQ sauce if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, HEINZ ORIGINAL SWEET & THICK BBQ SAUCE may not be the best choice due to its high added sugar content (41g per 100g). Consider looking for low-sugar or sugar-free BBQ sauce alternatives, or making your own sauce to control the amount of added sugar. Even in small amounts, the sugar load is significant.