HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE, TOMATO & BACON receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugars and sodium, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
This product scores 2/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 11.69g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 866.67mg of sodium per 100g, it is a high-sodium food.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike a home-cooked alternative.
Use sparingly to manage intake of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat.
Scores -44 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
11.69g
23% of Daily Value
Sodium
866.67mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (11.7g)-14
Saturated fat (5g)-4
Sodium (866.7mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE, TOMATO & BACON scores 2 out of 100, largely due to its formulation as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4). The product contains multiple sources of added sugar, including high fructose corn syrup and corn syrup, totaling 11.69g per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty. Its sodium content is also notably high at 866.67mg per 100g, contributing to a negative score. While it provides some Vitamin A (37% DV), this minor bonus is outweighed by the penalties from its high saturated fat (5g per 100g) and the presence of empty calories, meaning a high caloric density with minimal beneficial nutrients. Compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, this HIDDEN VALLEY product contains a much higher concentration of added sugars, sodium, and processed fats, lacking the fiber and micronutrient diversity typically found in homemade alternatives.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hidden valley tomato & bacon dressing & marinade, tomato & bacon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This dressing provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 37% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source of micronutrients, this product can contribute to your daily Vitamin A intake when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
For individuals who find it challenging to consume plain vegetables, a flavorful dressing like HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON can make them more palatable. By adding a small amount to salads or roasted vegetables, it may encourage greater intake of these nutrient-dense foods. The key is to use it sparingly to avoid excessive intake of less desirable components.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
As a pre-made dressing and marinade, this product offers convenience for quick meal preparation. It can save time in the kitchen compared to preparing a dressing from scratch. This can be particularly useful for busy individuals looking for a ready-to-use flavor component for their meals, provided they are mindful of portion sizes and overall dietary balance.
HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE, TOMATO & BACON receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugars and sodium, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
This dressing is typically used to enhance the flavor of salads, as a marinade for meats, or as a condiment. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to exceed this, leading to higher intake of added sugars and sodium.
Use this dressing sparingly, perhaps half the recommended serving size, to reduce intake of added sugars and sodium.
Pair with a large portion of fresh, non-starchy vegetables to balance the meal's nutrient profile.
Consider diluting with a small amount of vinegar or water to reduce its intensity and overall caloric contribution per serving.
Use as a marinade for lean proteins like chicken or fish, but drain excess before cooking to minimize added fat and sodium.
Balance meals by ensuring other components are whole, unprocessed foods to offset the dressing's nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high levels of added sugars (high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup) and sodium in this product, which can contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits if consumed regularly or in large portions. The presence of soybean oil means it contains soy, which is a common allergen. Additionally, preservatives like sorbic acid, sodium benzoate, and calcium disodium EDTA are included to extend shelf life. Individuals monitoring their intake of processed ingredients, those with soy allergies, or those on sodium-restricted diets should exercise caution with this dressing.
Is HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE healthy?
HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE scores 2/100, indicating it is not a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its low score is primarily due to its high content of added sugars (11.69g per 100g) and sodium (866.67mg per 100g), alongside its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile is poor.
How does HIDDEN VALLEY TOMATO & BACON DRESSING & MARINADE compare to other dressings?
Compared to a simpler vinaigrette made with olive oil and vinegar, or even some lighter options like a Bolthouse Farms yogurt dressing, this HIDDEN VALLEY product typically contains more added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat. Many other branded dressings also fall into the ultra-processed category, but their specific nutrient profiles can vary significantly. Always check the nutrition label for comparisons.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch that is commonly used in many processed foods and beverages. It provides sweetness and helps with texture and preservation. In this dressing, it contributes to the significant amount of added sugar, which impacts the product's overall FoodScore negatively due to its association with increased caloric intake and potential health concerns.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dressing?
The recommended serving size is 2 tablespoons. However, given its high content of added sugars, sodium, and fat, a more reasonable portion for those mindful of their intake might be 1 tablespoon or less. Using a smaller amount can still provide flavor without contributing excessive amounts of less desirable nutrients to your meal.
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Yes, the product name indicates it can be used as a marinade. Its flavor profile and ingredients are suitable for tenderizing and flavoring meats. However, be aware that marinating will still impart the dressing's high sodium and sugar content to your food, so consider rinsing or wiping off excess marinade before cooking to reduce intake.