JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar and sodium content**.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to its nutritional profile.
Contains 22.11g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
High in sodium with 1578.95mg per 100g, exceeding daily recommendations.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Use sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary ingredient.
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
22.11g
44% of Daily Value
Sodium
1578.95mg
69% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (22.1g)-25
Sodium (1579.0mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
The FoodScore of 0 for JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE is a direct result of its nutritional composition and processing. This product contains a significant amount of added sugar, specifically 22.11g per 100g, with high fructose corn syrup listed as the primary ingredient. This contributes to a high number of empty calories without providing essential nutrients. Additionally, the marinade is very high in sodium, containing 1578.95mg per 100g, which is a substantial portion of the daily recommended intake. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, a factor that incurs a penalty in the FoodScore system. It lacks any meaningful amounts of protein, fiber, healthy fats, or micronutrients such as potassium, calcium, iron, or vitamins, further contributing to its low score. Compared to a generic unbranded marinade, this JACK DANIEL'S product exhibits a similar profile of high added sugar and sodium, typical of many liquid marinades in the condiment category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in jack daniel's, smoky mesquite liquid marinade actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Culinary Use
This marinade can be used to impart a smoky mesquite flavor to meats, vegetables, or plant-based proteins. Its concentrated flavor profile means that only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired taste. This can be beneficial for individuals looking to add variety to their meals without significantly altering the overall nutritional content of the main dish, provided it is used in controlled portions.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
For those with limited time for meal preparation, JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE offers a convenient way to add flavor to dishes. It eliminates the need to combine multiple spices and ingredients to create a marinade from scratch. This can be particularly useful for quick weeknight meals, allowing for efficient cooking processes.
Versatility in Application
Beyond traditional marinating, this product can be used as a finishing sauce or glaze in small quantities. Its distinct flavor can complement various cooking methods, including grilling, baking, and pan-frying. This versatility allows for creative culinary applications, enabling consumers to experiment with different recipes.
JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar and sodium content.
How to eat it
JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE is typically used to flavor meats like chicken, pork, or beef before cooking, or as a basting sauce. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which is intended to infuse flavor rather than be consumed in large quantities. The high sodium and sugar content means it should be used sparingly.
Use small amounts (e.g., 1 tablespoon per serving of protein) to minimize added sugar and sodium intake.
Combine with fresh herbs, garlic, and a squeeze of citrus juice to enhance flavor naturally and reduce reliance on the marinade.
Dilute the marinade with water or a low-sodium broth to reduce its intensity and overall sodium content.
Consider using this marinade for occasional use rather than as a daily condiment due to its nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high levels of added sugar (primarily high fructose corn syrup and corn syrup) and sodium in this product. Individuals managing blood sugar levels or blood pressure should use this marinade with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list also includes sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate as preservatives, and caramel coloring. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of foods with these additives. The presence of anchovies and hydrolyzed soy protein means this product contains fish and soy allergens, which should be noted by individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients.
Is JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE a healthy choice?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE is not considered a healthy choice. It is high in added sugar and sodium, and lacks essential nutrients like protein and fiber. It is best used in very small quantities as an occasional flavor enhancer.
How does JACK DANIEL'S marinade compare to other marinades?
Compared to many other branded liquid marinades, such as those from Lawry's or Allegro, JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high added sugar and sodium. Some marinades may offer slightly lower sodium or sugar options, but many in this category are ultra-processed.
What is 'natural mesquite smoke flavoring'?
Natural mesquite smoke flavoring is an ingredient used to impart a smoky taste without the need for actual smoking. It is derived from burning mesquite wood and capturing the smoke components. While 'natural,' it is a processed flavor additive rather than a whole food ingredient.
What is a recommended portion size for this marinade?
The recommended serving size is 1 tablespoon. Adhering to this portion helps to control the intake of added sugar and sodium. Using larger amounts will significantly increase your consumption of these components, which can be detrimental to a balanced diet.
Can this marinade be used on vegetables?
Yes, JACK DANIEL'S, SMOKY MESQUITE LIQUID MARINADE can be used to flavor vegetables. However, due to its high sodium content, it is advisable to use it sparingly and consider diluting it or combining it with other low-sodium seasonings to avoid excessive saltiness.