LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE scores 28/100, indicating it should be consumed sparingly.
This marinade contains 2133.33mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to generic cajun marinades, this product's nutritional profile is similar.
Use in small portions to manage sodium intake when flavoring meats or vegetables.
Scores -4 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
2133.33mg
93% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (2133.3mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN scores 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high sodium content, which contributes a significant penalty of -12 points. Per 100g, this product contains 2133.33mg of sodium, an amount that exceeds a substantial portion of the daily recommended limit in a single serving if consumed in larger quantities. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. While LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE contains no protein, fiber, total fat, or added sugar, and provides only 9% DV of Vitamin C per 100g, these factors do not offset the penalties from sodium and processing. The presence of ingredients like modified corn starch and natural flavor are common in ultra-processed items. Compared to a generic unbranded cajun marinade, this specific LAWRY'S product exhibits a similar nutritional profile, particularly concerning its high sodium level and lack of beneficial macronutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's cajun marinade, cajun actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Culinary Versatility
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN can be used to add flavor to otherwise plain foods, potentially encouraging the consumption of lean proteins or vegetables. By providing a distinct Cajun spice profile, it can make meals more appealing without contributing fat or added sugars. This can be particularly useful for individuals looking to diversify their meal preparations and avoid blandness, which might otherwise lead to less nutritious food choices. The marinade's primary role is to impart a specific taste, making it a tool for culinary variety.
Convenient Meal Preparation
This marinade offers convenience in meal preparation, as it is a ready-to-use product that simplifies the seasoning process. For individuals with limited time for cooking, using a pre-made marinade can reduce the effort involved in preparing meals from scratch. This convenience can help support home cooking, which often allows for better control over ingredients compared to eating out. The product is designed to be a quick solution for infusing flavor into various dishes.
Source of Vitamin C
While not a primary source, LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE does provide a small amount of Vitamin C, contributing 9% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. Although the serving size is small, and the contribution is modest, any amount of Vitamin C from a food product can contribute to overall daily intake. This is a minor benefit in the context of the product's overall nutritional profile.
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE is typically used to flavor meats like chicken, fish, or shrimp, and can also be applied to vegetables before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. A common portion is 1 tablespoon per serving of food, used to infuse a savory, spicy taste.
Use this marinade as a flavor booster for lean proteins like chicken breast or firm tofu to enhance palatability.
Dilute the marinade with a small amount of water or citrus juice to reduce the sodium concentration per serving.
Pair marinated foods with a large portion of non-starchy vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Consider using this marinade in combination with fresh herbs and spices to layer flavors without relying solely on the pre-made blend.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content in LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN, which is 2133.33mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or at risk for cardiovascular disease, should use this product sparingly and in very small portions. The ingredient list includes potassium sorbate & sodium benzoate, which are preservatives used to protect quality. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of foods containing these additives. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a formulation that may be less beneficial than whole, unprocessed foods.
LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN scores 28/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. Its primary nutritional concern is its high sodium content (2133.33mg per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it contains no added sugar or fat, it also offers minimal beneficial nutrients.
How does LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE compare to other marinades?
Compared to many other branded marinades, such as those from McCormick Grill Mates, LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high sodium levels and the presence of preservatives. Most pre-made marinades in the condiment category tend to be ultra-processed and should be used in moderation.
What is 'modified corn starch' in this marinade?
Modified corn starch is a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods. It helps to give the marinade its desired texture and consistency. While generally safe for consumption, its presence is a characteristic of ultra-processed foods.
What is a typical serving size for this marinade?
The declared serving size for LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN is 1 tablespoon. Given its high sodium content, it is advisable to stick to this small portion size or even less, especially if you are watching your sodium intake. Using it as a flavor accent rather than a heavy coating is recommended.
Can I use this marinade for vegetarian dishes?
Yes, LAWRY'S CAJUN MARINADE, CAJUN can be used to flavor vegetarian dishes. It can add a spicy, savory kick to vegetables, tofu, or plant-based protein alternatives. However, remember to consider the sodium content when incorporating it into your vegetarian meal planning.