LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX, BROWN GRAVY scores 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX scores 28/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
This product contains 5833.33mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic brown gravy, this product has a similar nutrient profile.
Use sparingly to manage sodium intake, especially if monitoring blood pressure.
Scores -14 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
5833.33mg
254% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (5833.3mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX, BROWN GRAVY receives a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor contributing to this low score is its exceptionally high sodium content, which stands at 5833.33mg per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds daily recommendations and incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore algorithm. Additionally, the product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification reflects the presence of ingredients like modified corn starch, corn maltodextrin, and disodium inosinate and guanylate, which are typically found in highly processed foods and contribute to a lower nutritional score. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, 0g of saturated fat, and 0g of trans fat per 100g, these positive attributes are outweighed by the high sodium and processing level. Compared to a generic unbranded brown gravy, LAWRY'S offers a comparable nutritional profile, meaning it does not stand out as a healthier alternative within its category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's brown gravy mix, brown gravy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX provides significant convenience for consumers seeking a quick and easy way to prepare gravy. Its powdered form allows for rapid preparation by simply adding water, making it a practical option for busy individuals or when time is limited. This can help facilitate home-cooked meals by reducing preparation time, even if the nutritional profile is not optimal. It serves as a functional ingredient to enhance the palatability of dishes.
Flavor Enhancement for Dishes
This gravy mix is designed to enhance the flavor of various dishes, particularly meats and mashed potatoes. The blend of spices, natural flavors, and flavor enhancers like disodium inosinate and guanylate contributes to a savory profile. For those looking to add a familiar, rich taste to their meals without extensive cooking, LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX offers a consistent flavor solution. This can make plainer, nutrient-dense foods more appealing to some individuals.
Minimal Fat Content
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX contains minimal total fat, with 8.33g per 100g, and notably 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly saturated and trans fats, this product does not contribute significantly to these dietary components. This makes it a suitable option for adding flavor without substantially increasing the fat content of a meal, aligning with recommendations to limit unhealthy fat consumption.
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX, BROWN GRAVY scores 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX is typically used as a condiment or sauce to accompany main dishes. It's commonly prepared by whisking the powder with water and heating until thickened. A typical serving size is 2 tsp, which yields a small amount of gravy, often drizzled over roasted meats, poultry, or mashed potatoes to add flavor and moisture.
To reduce sodium intake, consider using half the recommended amount of LAWRY'S mix and supplementing with unsalted broth or water.
Pair gravy with lean protein sources like baked chicken breast or turkey, and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Use this gravy as a flavorful base for homemade soups or stews, allowing you to control other ingredients and overall sodium levels.
Measure portions carefully; a small amount of gravy can go a long way in adding flavor without excessive sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX, which is 5833.33mg per 100g. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product very sparingly. The ingredient list also includes whey (milk) and hydrolyzed soy, corn, wheat protein, indicating potential allergens for those with sensitivities to milk, soy, or wheat. The presence of caramel color and disodium inosinate and guanylate are common in ultra-processed foods and may be a consideration for those aiming to minimize their intake of such additives. While generally safe, these components contribute to its NOVA class 4 classification.
LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX scores 28/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice. Its high sodium content is a significant concern, contributing to its low score. While it has 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat, these positive aspects do not outweigh the sodium and its ultra-processed nature.
How does LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX compare to other gravy brands?
Compared to a generic unbranded brown gravy, LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX has a similar nutritional profile, particularly regarding its high sodium content and lack of significant micronutrients. Other brands like McCormick's Brown Gravy Mix also tend to be high in sodium and are similarly processed, making them comparable in terms of nutritional impact.
What is 'modified corn starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified corn starch is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including gravies. It helps achieve the desired texture and consistency. While generally recognized as safe, its presence contributes to the product's classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a typical serving size for this gravy mix?
The declared serving size for LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX is 2 tsp (approximately 6g of powder). When prepared, this yields a small amount of gravy. It's important to stick to this small serving size to manage the intake of sodium, especially given its high concentration per 100g.
Can I use this gravy mix if I'm trying to reduce my fat intake?
Yes, LAWRY'S BROWN GRAVY MIX contains 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g, making it a suitable option for individuals monitoring these specific fat types. However, its high sodium content should still be a primary consideration, as excessive sodium can have other health implications.