HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING, LOW FAT scores 32/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its contributions from added sugar and sodium.
This HELLMANN'S product receives a FoodScore of 32/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 4.67g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its lower score.
With 866.67mg of sodium per 100g, it is a significant source of sodium.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, which negatively impacts its score.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores +0 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
4.67g
9% of Daily Value
Sodium
866.67mg
38% 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 (4.7g)-4
Sodium (866.7mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 32
HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING, LOW FAT achieves a FoodScore of 32 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by several factors. The product is categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant 10-point penalty. Per 100g, it contains 4.67g of added sugar, leading to a 4-point penalty. Additionally, its sodium content of 866.67mg per 100g results in another 4-point penalty. While the product is labeled 'LOW FAT' and indeed contains only 6.67g of total fat per 100g with no saturated or trans fat, and no protein or fiber, these factors do not offset the penalties from processing, added sugar, and sodium. Ingredients like high fructose corn syrup contribute to the added sugar content, and modified corn starch and xanthan gum are examples of processing aids. Compared to a generic unbranded mayonnaise, which typically has a higher fat content but often less added sugar and similar or lower sodium, this HELLMANN'S low-fat version trades fat for other ingredients that impact its overall nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hellmann's low fat mayonnaise dressing, low fat actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Low in Saturated and Trans Fat
This HELLMANN'S product is formulated to be low in total fat, containing only 6.67g per 100g, and notably, it has 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat. This can be a beneficial aspect for individuals monitoring their intake of these specific fat types, which are often associated with dietary guidelines for heart health. Choosing products with lower saturated and trans fat can be part of a broader dietary strategy to manage overall fat consumption.
Calorie-Reduced Option
With 100 calories per 100g, HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING offers a calorie-reduced alternative compared to traditional full-fat mayonnaise, which typically contains significantly more calories per serving. For those aiming to reduce their overall caloric intake, using this product in moderation can help manage the energy density of meals and snacks. This can be useful in contexts where calorie control is a primary dietary goal.
Versatile Condiment for Specific Dietary Needs
This low-fat mayonnaise dressing can serve as a versatile condiment for individuals following specific dietary patterns that require reduced fat intake. Its formulation allows it to be incorporated into various dishes, providing flavor and texture without contributing significant amounts of fat. This can be particularly helpful for those who enjoy the taste of mayonnaise but need to adhere to a lower-fat diet for health reasons, provided other nutritional aspects are considered.
HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING, LOW FAT scores 32/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its contributions from added sugar and sodium.
How to eat it
HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING is typically used as a condiment to add flavor and moisture to sandwiches, salads, and other dishes. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which is a relatively small amount. It's often spread directly onto food or mixed into recipes.
Use this dressing in small, measured portions (e.g., 1 tablespoon) to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Combine with fresh herbs or spices to enhance flavor without adding more sodium or sugar.
Consider using it as a binder in dishes like tuna salad or chicken salad, balancing it with plenty of vegetables.
For a lower-sodium alternative, explore making your own dressings with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of high fructose corn syrup contributes to the added sugar content, which consumers monitoring sugar intake should note. Sodium benzoate and calcium disodium EDTA are used as preservatives to maintain product quality. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of foods with multiple preservatives. The product also contains soybean oil and egg whites, which are common allergens; individuals with soy or egg allergies should avoid this product. Its NOVA class 4 designation indicates it is an ultra-processed food, which often means it contains ingredients and processing methods that can impact overall dietary quality.
Is HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING healthy?
HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING scores 32/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional profile. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its contributions of added sugar and sodium. While it is low in fat, its overall composition suggests it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING compare to regular mayonnaise?
This low-fat version has significantly fewer calories and less total fat (6.67g per 100g) compared to regular mayonnaise. However, it contains added sugar (4.67g per 100g) and a notable amount of sodium (866.67mg per 100g). Regular mayonnaise typically has higher fat but may not contain as much added sugar. For example, compared to a full-fat mayonnaise like Duke's Real Mayonnaise, this product offers a lower fat option but introduces other ingredients like high fructose corn syrup.
What is 'modified corn starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified corn starch is a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods. In HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING, it helps achieve the desired texture and consistency in a lower-fat formulation. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a typical serving size for this dressing?
The typical serving size for HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING is 1 tablespoon. This small portion helps to manage the intake of its added sugar and sodium content. It's important to adhere to serving sizes when incorporating condiments into your diet.
Can this dressing be used in cooking?
Yes, HELLMANN'S LOW FAT MAYONNAISE DRESSING can be used in cooking, particularly in cold applications like dressings, dips, and as a binder in salads. Its low-fat formulation might behave differently than full-fat mayonnaise in certain heated dishes, so it's best suited for recipes where its texture and flavor are desired without significant heat exposure.