KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar and being an ultra-processed food.
This dressing scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
It contains 21g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food with a complex ingredient list.
Compared to generic ranch dressing, this product has similar nutritional drawbacks.
Use in very small portions to limit intake of added sugars and fats.
Scores -40 points above the condiment category average (40/100 across 103 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
21g
42% of Daily Value
Sodium
317mg
14% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (21g)-25
Saturated fat (5g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 0
KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing earns a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant penalties for added sugar (21g per 100g), saturated fat (5g per 100g), and its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). The presence of ingredients like SUGAR and VEGETABLE OIL (SOYBEAN AND/OR CANOLA) early in the list indicates a formulation high in these components. The product also receives penalties for 'empty calories' and 'concentrated ultra-processed fat', reflecting a lack of beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, all of which are 0% DV per 100g. Compared to a generic unbranded ranch dressing, KEN'S shares a similar profile of high fat, added sugar, and low micronutrient density, aligning with the typical characteristics of this condiment category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ken's steak house ranch dressing actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Enhances Flavor for Palatability
While not a source of beneficial nutrients, KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing can enhance the palatability of otherwise plain foods like salads or raw vegetables. For individuals who struggle to consume enough vegetables, a small amount of dressing might make these foods more appealing. This can be a practical approach to encourage vegetable intake, provided the portion size is carefully controlled to mitigate the impact of its less favorable nutritional components.
Convenience for Quick Meals
This dressing offers convenience for meal preparation, requiring no additional effort to add flavor to dishes. For busy individuals, having a ready-to-use condiment can save time in the kitchen. Its long shelf life and ease of use make it a practical pantry staple for quick flavor additions, especially when time is a limiting factor for cooking from scratch.
Source of Energy
With 400 calories per 100g, this dressing provides a concentrated source of energy. While not ideal for regular consumption due to its nutrient profile, in situations where quick caloric intake is needed, it can contribute to energy needs. However, it is important to note that this energy comes primarily from fats and added sugars, which are not the most nutrient-dense sources.
KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high content of added sugar and being an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Ranch dressing is typically used as a condiment for salads, a dip for vegetables or fried foods, or as an ingredient in various recipes. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to over-pour and exceed this amount, significantly increasing intake of added sugar and fat.
Use this dressing sparingly; consider measuring out a single serving (2 Tbsp) to control intake.
Dilute with a splash of water or vinegar to reduce caloric density and extend its use.
Pair with a large portion of non-starchy vegetables to add flavor without excessive amounts of dressing.
Consider making your own dressing with plain Greek yogurt, herbs, and spices for a more nutrient-dense alternative.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several ingredients in KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing. The presence of CALCIUM DISODIUM EDTA is a preservative used to protect flavor, and while generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of such additives. The artificial color YELLOW #5 is also present, which some people choose to avoid due to potential sensitivities, particularly in children. Given the high content of added sugar and fat, individuals managing blood sugar levels or cardiovascular health should consume this product in very limited quantities. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label beyond what might be present in soybean oil.
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing is not considered a healthy food choice. It is an ultra-processed product high in added sugars and fats, offering minimal beneficial nutrients. Regular consumption of foods with this nutritional profile may not support overall dietary guidelines.
How does KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing compare to other ranch dressings?
Compared to a generic unbranded ranch dressing, KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing has a similar nutritional profile, characterized by high fat and added sugar content. Many other popular ranch dressings, such as Hidden Valley Ranch, also share these characteristics, placing them in a similar category regarding nutritional value.
What is 'VEGETABLE OIL (SOYBEAN AND/OR CANOLA)' in this dressing?
This refers to a blend of soybean oil and/or canola oil, which are common sources of fat in many processed foods. These oils primarily contribute calories and fat to the dressing. The 'and/or' indicates that the exact proportions or types of oil may vary depending on availability.
How much Ken's Steak House Ranch Dressing can I eat daily?
Due to its high content of added sugar and fat, it is recommended to consume KEN'S Steak House Ranch Dressing in very small, infrequent portions. Adhering to the suggested serving size of 2 tablespoons can help manage intake, but daily consumption is not advised if you are aiming for a nutrient-dense diet.
Can I use this dressing if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
No, this dressing contains 21g of added sugar per 100g, which is a significant amount. If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, it would be best to avoid this product or use it in extremely minimal quantities. Look for dressings specifically labeled 'sugar-free' or 'no added sugar' as alternatives.