HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This stir fry sauce scores 28/100 (Avoid) on the FoodScore scale.
It contains 3058.82mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic stir fry sauce, this product has similar nutritional concerns.
Use in small portions to manage sodium intake when preparing meals.
Scores -4 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
3058.82mg
133% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (3058.8mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE earns a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is its very high sodium content, measured at 3058.82mg per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds daily recommended limits for sodium intake and incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore calculation. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food. This classification reflects its formulation with multiple ingredients that are typically not found in home kitchens, such as modified cornstarch, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate, which contribute to its overall processing level and incur a further penalty. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat per 100g, these positive attributes are outweighed by the significant sodium penalty and its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a generic unbranded stir fry sauce, the HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE presents similar nutritional challenges, particularly regarding its high sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in house of tsang szechuan spicy stir fry sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Home Cooking
This stir fry sauce can serve as a flavorful base for home-cooked meals, potentially encouraging the consumption of more vegetables and lean proteins. By providing a pre-made sauce, it can simplify meal preparation, making it easier for individuals to cook at home rather than relying on takeout options that might have unknown nutritional profiles. The distinct Szechuan flavor profile can add variety to dishes, which may help maintain interest in preparing diverse and balanced meals.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
The HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE offers significant convenience for busy individuals. Its ready-to-use format reduces the need for measuring and mixing multiple spices and condiments, saving time in the kitchen. This convenience can be beneficial for those with limited time for meal preparation, allowing them to quickly assemble a stir-fry or other dish. The ease of use can support consistent home cooking, which generally offers more control over ingredients than eating out.
Source of Specific Flavors
This sauce provides the distinctive taste of Szechuan cuisine, which can be appealing to those who enjoy spicy and savory flavors. Ingredients like dried garlic, dried onions, and natural flavors of capsicum and ginger contribute to its unique profile. For individuals seeking to replicate specific restaurant-style flavors at home, this product offers a convenient way to achieve that without needing to source and prepare numerous individual spices and seasonings, enhancing the culinary experience.
HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Stir fry sauces like HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE are typically used to flavor Asian-inspired dishes, particularly stir-fries. A common portion is 1-2 tablespoons per serving of food. It's often added towards the end of cooking to coat vegetables, proteins, and noodles, or used as a marinade.
To manage sodium intake, dilute the sauce with a small amount of water or low-sodium broth before adding it to your dish.
Pair with a generous amount of fresh or frozen non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient density in your meal.
Use as a marinade for lean proteins like chicken breast or tofu, but consider rinsing the protein before cooking to reduce surface sodium.
Measure your portion carefully; even a small amount contributes significant flavor, so less can be more for sodium control.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be particularly mindful of HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE due to its very high sodium content. The ingredient list includes sodium benzoate as a preservative, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. The product also contains soy and wheat, which are common allergens; individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. While the sauce contains cottonseed oil and sesame seed oil, the total fat content is relatively low per serving. The presence of disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate are flavor enhancers that are generally recognized as safe, but some sensitive individuals may prefer to limit foods containing them.
Is HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE healthy?
HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption. Its primary drawback is the very high sodium content, which significantly contributes to its low score. While it has 0g of added sugar and saturated fat per 100g, these benefits do not outweigh the sodium load and its ultra-processed nature.
How does HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE compare to other stir fry sauces?
Compared to many generic stir fry sauces, HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE has a similar nutritional profile, particularly regarding its high sodium levels. Brands like Kikkoman also offer stir-fry sauces, and it's common for these products to be high in sodium. Always check the nutrition label for specific sodium and added sugar content when comparing different brands to find a lower-sodium option.
What is 'modified cornstarch' in this sauce?
Modified cornstarch is a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including sauces. It helps achieve the desired texture and consistency. While generally recognized as safe, its presence contributes to the product's classification as an ultra-processed food, which is a factor in its FoodScore.
How much of this sauce can I use daily?
Given its high sodium content (3058.82mg per 100g), it is advisable to use HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE in moderation. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon. Limiting yourself to one serving or less per meal, and not using it daily, can help manage your overall sodium intake and align with dietary guidelines.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, you can use HOUSE OF TSANG SZECHUAN SPICY STIR FRY SAUCE as a marinade for proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu. However, be aware that marinating will infuse the food with the sauce's high sodium content. To mitigate this, consider marinating for a shorter period or rinsing the marinated food lightly before cooking to reduce surface sodium.