LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This LAWRY'S product scores 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
The primary nutritional concern is its extremely high sodium content, at 13200mg per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed and differs significantly from home-cooked stew.
It contains 0g of protein, fiber, total fat, and added sugar per 100g.
Use this seasoning mix sparingly to manage sodium intake in your meals.
Scores -18 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
13200mg
574% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (13200mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX receives a FoodScore of 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its exceptionally high sodium content, which is 13200mg per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds daily recommendations and incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore algorithm. The product also falls into NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which contributes a further penalty to its overall score. While it contains 0g of added sugar, protein, fiber, and total fat per 100g, these absences do not offset the significant sodium load. Ingredients like enriched wheat flour and xanthan gum are typical of processed seasoning mixes. Compared to a home-cooked beef stew made with whole ingredients, this seasoning mix lacks the beneficial fiber, protein, and micronutrients naturally present in vegetables and meat, while introducing a high level of sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's beef stew spices & seasonings mix, beef stew actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX offers significant convenience for home cooks. It provides a pre-measured blend of spices and seasonings, simplifying the process of flavoring beef stew. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time or those who prefer not to measure individual spices, allowing for quicker meal assembly. The product's design focuses on ease of use in a busy kitchen.
Consistent Flavor Profile
Using a pre-mixed seasoning like LAWRY'S ensures a consistent flavor profile every time you prepare beef stew. This can be beneficial for those who enjoy a predictable taste and want to replicate a specific dish reliably. The blend of spices, including paprika and turmeric, is formulated to deliver a familiar and expected taste, removing guesswork from seasoning.
Zero Added Sugar
This seasoning mix contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, which can be a positive aspect for individuals monitoring their sugar intake. While the product has other nutritional considerations, the absence of added sugars means it will not contribute to the daily limit for added sugars recommended by dietary guidelines. This allows for more control over the total sugar content of the final dish.
LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX is typically used to flavor beef stew, often added during the simmering process. A common portion is 1 teaspoon per serving of stew, but it's important to consider the overall sodium contribution to the entire pot.
To reduce overall sodium, consider using half the recommended amount of this seasoning mix and supplementing with fresh herbs and unsalted spices.
Pair your beef stew with a generous portion of steamed or roasted vegetables to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Serve the stew with a whole grain like brown rice or quinoa instead of white bread to add complex carbohydrates and fiber.
When preparing the stew, use low-sodium broth to further control the total sodium content of the meal.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for LAWRY'S BEEF STEW SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX is its very high sodium content. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product with extreme moderation or seek lower-sodium alternatives. The presence of enriched wheat flour means this product contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While ingredients like xanthan gum and caramel color are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit consumption of ultra-processed food components.
Is LAWRY'S Beef Stew Spices & Seasonings Mix healthy?
LAWRY'S Beef Stew Spices & Seasonings Mix scores 28/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. Its primary nutritional drawback is its extremely high sodium content (13200mg per 100g). While it contains 0g of added sugar, protein, or fiber, its ultra-processed nature and high sodium make it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
How does LAWRY'S compare to other beef stew seasonings?
Compared to a generic, unbranded beef stew seasoning mix, LAWRY'S is likely to have a similar nutritional profile, often high in sodium and classified as ultra-processed. Many seasoning mixes, like those from McCormick, prioritize flavor and convenience, which often means higher sodium levels. Always check the nutrition label for sodium content when comparing brands.
What is enriched wheat flour, and should I be concerned about it?
Enriched wheat flour is wheat flour to which B vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron have been added back after processing. For most people, it is not a concern. However, individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid this product as it contains gluten.
How much of this seasoning mix can I use daily?
Given its high sodium content, it's advisable to use LAWRY'S Beef Stew Spices & Seasonings Mix sparingly. A single teaspoon contains a significant amount of sodium. To stay within daily sodium recommendations, consider using less than the suggested amount or using it infrequently as part of a balanced diet that is otherwise low in sodium.
Does this seasoning mix contain any allergens?
Yes, LAWRY'S Beef Stew Spices & Seasonings Mix contains enriched wheat flour, which means it contains wheat. Wheat is a common allergen. Individuals with wheat allergies or sensitivities should avoid this product. Always check the ingredient list for other potential allergens if you have specific dietary restrictions.