HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This product received a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 13.57g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 1080.56mg of sodium per 100g, it is high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional benefits.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.81g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
13.57g
27% of Daily Value
Sodium
1080.56mg
47% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.8g)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (13.6g)-17
Sodium (1080.6mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 20
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL received a FoodScore of 20/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high content of added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). The product contains 13.57g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -17 points. Ingredients like sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and corn syrup are listed prominently, indicating multiple sources of sweeteners. Additionally, the sodium content is notably high at 1080.56mg per 100g, contributing a -5 point penalty. While the product does offer a small bonus of +2 points for its 2.81g of fiber per 100g, this is insufficient to offset the significant penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein and calcium, this barbecue sauce provides negligible amounts of beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and most B vitamins, further contributing to its low score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hunt's barbecue sauce, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Vitamin C
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL provides a modest amount of Vitamin C, contributing 7% of the Daily Value per 100g. While not a primary source, this can contribute to your daily intake of this essential antioxidant vitamin. Vitamin C supports various bodily functions, including immune health and collagen formation. Including this sauce in small amounts can add a minor boost of this nutrient.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
This barbecue sauce can be used to enhance the palatability of less preferred foods, such as plain vegetables or lean proteins. By adding a small amount of sauce, individuals might find it easier to consume more nutrient-dense foods that they might otherwise avoid. This can be a strategy for increasing overall vegetable intake, provided the portion of sauce is carefully controlled to limit added sugar and sodium.
Convenient Meal Addition
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL offers convenience as a ready-to-use condiment for quick meal preparation. For individuals with limited time, having a pre-made sauce can simplify cooking and reduce the need for preparing complex flavorings from scratch. This convenience factor can be beneficial in maintaining a consistent eating routine, especially when paired with otherwise unprocessed foods.
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Barbecue sauce is commonly used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or baked meats and vegetables. A typical serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add to your daily intake of added sugars and sodium.
Use HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE as a flavor accent rather than a primary sauce, applying it sparingly to grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
Dilute the sauce with a small amount of vinegar or water to reduce the intensity of flavor and the amount of sauce consumed per serving.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole grains or a large serving of non-starchy vegetables to help balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Consider making your own barbecue sauce at home to control the amount of added sugar and sodium.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (1080.56mg per 100g) and added sugars in HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL. Individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels, such as those with hypertension or diabetes, should consume this product in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes sulfite as a preservative in the Worcestershire sauce powder, which can be a concern for individuals with sulfite sensitivities or allergies. As an ultra-processed food, it contains multiple ingredients that contribute to its flavor and texture but offer minimal nutritional value.
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption, scoring 20/100. Its low score is primarily due to its high added sugar and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers a small amount of Vitamin C, it lacks significant beneficial micronutrients.
How does HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to many other branded barbecue sauces, HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL is similar in its nutritional profile, often featuring high levels of added sugar and sodium. For instance, brands like Sweet Baby Ray's also typically contain significant amounts of corn syrup and sugar. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options may need to seek out specific 'light' or 'no sugar added' varieties within the barbecue sauce category.
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 is included in HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL as a cost-effective way to provide sweetness and contribute to the sauce's texture and shelf stability. From a nutritional perspective, it is a source of added sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this barbecue sauce?
A reasonable portion size for HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL is typically 1-2 tablespoons. Given its high added sugar and sodium content, adhering to smaller portions is advisable to minimize the impact on your daily intake of these nutrients. Using it as a condiment rather than a main ingredient can help manage portion control.
Can this barbecue sauce be part of a balanced diet?
HUNT'S BARBECUE SAUCE, ORIGINAL can be included in a balanced diet, but only in small, infrequent amounts. It is best used as an occasional flavor enhancer rather than a staple. To maintain a balanced diet, prioritize whole, unprocessed foods and limit your intake of products high in added sugars and sodium.