J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE, ROASTED GARLIC & HERB
J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high levels of added sugar and sodium**, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This marinade scores 0/100, indicating it is not a beneficial choice for regular consumption.
It contains 17.6g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 1411.76mg of sodium per 100g, it is considerably higher in sodium than a generic marinade.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional value.
Use this product sparingly to manage intake of added sugars and sodium.
Scores -32 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
17.6g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
1411.76mg
61% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.6g)-23
Sodium (1411.8mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE scores 0 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugar and sodium. Per 100g, this product contains 17.6g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -23 points. The ingredient list shows high fructose corn syrup as the third ingredient, indicating a substantial contribution to the overall sugar content. Additionally, the sodium content is very high at 1411.76mg per 100g, resulting in an -8 point penalty. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which further deducts 10 points from its score. It provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron, leading to an additional -15 points for empty calories. Compared to a generic unbranded marinade, J.L. KRAFT's formulation includes a higher concentration of these penalized components without offering any offsetting nutritional benefits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in j.l. kraft roasted garlic & herb liquid marinade, roasted garlic & herb actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE can be used to impart flavor to otherwise bland foods. Its blend of garlic, herbs, and spices can enhance the taste of proteins or vegetables, potentially making them more palatable. This can be useful for individuals seeking to add a specific flavor profile to their cooking without extensive preparation, though the nutritional impact should be considered.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This liquid marinade offers convenience for quick meal preparation. For consumers with limited time, a pre-mixed marinade can simplify the cooking process by eliminating the need to measure and combine individual spices and seasonings. It provides a ready-to-use solution for flavoring meats, poultry, or plant-based alternatives, streamlining the initial steps of cooking.
Low in Fat and Cholesterol-Free
The J.L. KRAFT marinade is free from total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat, and contains no cholesterol. For individuals monitoring their fat intake or aiming for a low-fat diet, this aspect of the marinade's nutritional profile may be a consideration. However, it is important to balance this with the high added sugar and sodium content.
J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and sodium, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Liquid marinades like J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB are typically used to tenderize and flavor meats, poultry, or plant-based proteins before cooking. A common portion is 1 tablespoon per serving of food, applied by coating the food and allowing it to sit for a period. Overuse can lead to excessive intake of its less desirable components.
Use this marinade as a finishing sauce in small amounts rather than a primary marinade to control sodium and added sugar.
Combine with fresh herbs and citrus juice to dilute the marinade's intensity and add natural flavors without extra sugar or salt.
Consider this marinade for infrequent use on dishes like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables, focusing on portion control.
For a lower sodium option, try making your own marinade with fresh garlic, herbs, vinegar, and a small amount of oil.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium and added sugar content in J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE. Individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels, such as those with hypertension or diabetes, should use this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate as preservatives, and calcium disodium EDTA to protect flavor, which are common food additives. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of highly processed foods containing such additives. The product also contains soy lecithin, which is relevant for individuals with soy allergies.
Is J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE healthy?
No, this marinade is not considered healthy. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high levels of added sugar (17.6g per 100g) and sodium (1411.76mg per 100g). It also lacks beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential vitamins or minerals, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How does J.L. KRAFT ROASTED GARLIC & HERB LIQUID MARINADE compare to a generic marinade?
Compared to a generic unbranded marinade, J.L. KRAFT's version often contains higher amounts of added sugars and sodium. The presence of high fructose corn syrup as a primary sweetener and a high sodium content are key differentiators. For example, some generic marinades, like those from McCormick, might offer variations with lower sodium or no added sugar, making them potentially better choices.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this marinade?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch, commonly used in many processed foods and beverages. It is included in this marinade primarily to add sweetness and enhance flavor. Its presence significantly contributes to the product's high added sugar content and its low FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for this marinade?
The declared serving size is 1 tablespoon. Given the high sodium and added sugar content, it is advisable to stick to this small portion size or even use less. Frequent or large portions can quickly lead to an excessive intake of these components, which may not align with dietary guidelines.
Can this marinade be used for purposes other than marinating meat?
While primarily designed for marinating, this product could be used in very small quantities as a flavoring agent in dressings or sauces. However, due to its intense flavor and high sodium/sugar profile, it should be used sparingly. Consider diluting it or combining it with other ingredients to balance the taste and nutritional impact.