KRAFT HEINZ SAUCES & FROZEN KOREAN CHILI SAUCE, SMOKY receives a FoodScore of 14 out of 100, primarily driven by its nutritional profile. The product incurs significant penalties due to its high added sugar content, which stands at 14g per 100g. This amount contributes to a substantial -18 point deduction. Additionally, the sodium level is very high at 1800mg per 100g, resulting in a -10 point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives another -10 point penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple industrial ingredients like corn starch and xanthan gum. While it offers 6.7g of protein per 100g, earning a +2 bonus, this is not enough to offset the considerable penalties. Compared to a home-cooked Korean chili sauce made with whole ingredients, this branded product contains significantly more added sugar and sodium, and lacks the fiber and micronutrients typically found in less processed foods.
What the nutrients in kraft heinz sauces & frozen korean chili sauce, smoky actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
This sauce can be used to add a distinct smoky Korean chili flavor to meals. For individuals seeking to replicate specific culinary profiles quickly, it offers a convenient option. Its unique taste profile, derived from ingredients like gochujang and natural smoke flavor, can make dishes more palatable, potentially encouraging consumption of otherwise plain foods like vegetables or lean proteins when used in small quantities.
With 6.67g of protein per 100g, this sauce contributes a modest amount of protein. While a typical serving size is small (1 Tbsp), incorporating it into a meal that already includes lean protein sources can slightly boost the overall protein content of that meal. Protein is essential for muscle repair and satiety, and this product can play a minor supporting role in meeting daily protein needs.
For those with limited time for meal preparation, this KRAFT HEINZ SAUCES & FROZEN product offers culinary convenience. It eliminates the need to source and combine multiple ingredients to create a similar flavor profile from scratch. This can be particularly useful for quick weeknight dinners, allowing individuals to prepare meals faster by simply adding a pre-made sauce.
Korean chili sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or cooking ingredient to impart a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. Common portions are 1 tablespoon or less, often mixed into stir-fries, glazes for meats, or as a dipping sauce. The primary pitfall is over-serving, which can lead to excessive intake of sodium and added sugars.
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. It lists wheat and soybeans as primary allergens, which is important for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients. The high sodium content (1800mg per 100g) means that even small servings can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. The presence of 14g of added sugar per 100g should also be noted by those monitoring sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes or those aiming to reduce their overall sugar consumption. The inclusion of xanthan gum, while generally recognized as safe, may cause digestive discomfort in some sensitive individuals when consumed in larger quantities.