LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE scores 3/100 (Avoid) due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This LAWRY'S marinade has a FoodScore of 3/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
A single serving contains 2666.67mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily intake.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed.
Compared to plain water, this marinade provides calories and added sugars without essential nutrients.
Use sparingly to manage sodium and added sugar intake in meals.
Scores -29 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
9.33g
19% of Daily Value
Sodium
2666.67mg
116% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (9.3g)-10
Sodium (2666.7mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 3
LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 3 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile dominated by sodium and added sugars, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 2666.67mg of sodium, which is a substantial amount and incurs a significant penalty of -12 points. It also includes 9.33g of added sugar, largely from high fructose corn syrup, leading to a -10 point penalty. The absence of protein, fiber, and beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron means it provides minimal nutritional value. Furthermore, its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food results in an additional -10 point deduction. The combination of these factors, along with a -15 point penalty for empty calories, positions LAWRY'S far from the nutritional baseline of plain water or unsweetened beverages.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's italian garlic steak marinade actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Enhances Flavor for Culinary Variety
While not a source of significant nutrients, LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE can enhance the flavor of lean proteins and vegetables, potentially making healthier food choices more appealing. Using marinades can help tenderize meats and infuse them with savory notes, which may encourage consumption of otherwise plain ingredients. This can be a useful tool for individuals looking to add variety to their diet without relying on less healthy cooking methods.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This marinade offers convenience for quick meal preparation, reducing the need for multiple individual spices and ingredients. For busy individuals, a pre-mixed marinade like LAWRY'S can save time in the kitchen, making it easier to prepare home-cooked meals. The ready-to-use format simplifies the cooking process, which can be a benefit for those with limited time or cooking experience.
Source of Energy from Carbohydrates
The marinade provides some calories, primarily from carbohydrates, which can serve as a source of immediate energy. With 66.67 calories per 100g, it contributes to the overall caloric intake of a meal. While the carbohydrates are mostly from added sugars like high fructose corn syrup, they still provide energy for daily activities, which can be relevant in the context of a balanced meal.
LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE scores 3/100 (Avoid) due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE is typically used to flavor and tenderize meats, especially beef, before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. A common portion is 1 tablespoon per serving of meat. The main pitfall is using too much, which can significantly increase sodium and added sugar intake.
To manage sodium, consider using half the recommended amount of marinade and supplementing with fresh herbs and spices.
Pair marinated meats with a large portion of non-starchy vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Use this marinade as a flavor booster for vegetables before roasting, rather than solely for meats, to increase vegetable consumption.
Dilute the marinade with a splash of water or vinegar to reduce its concentration of sodium and sugar per serving.
Consider making your own marinade from scratch using olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs to control ingredient quality and nutrient content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (2666.67mg per 100g) in LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE, which can contribute significantly to daily sodium limits. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product sparingly. The presence of high fructose corn syrup means it contributes to added sugar intake, which individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should monitor. The ingredient list also includes sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are common preservatives. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of foods containing these additives. The product contains soy sauce, indicating the presence of wheat and soybeans, which are common allergens.
LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE scores 3/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is not a nutritionally dense food. It is high in sodium and added sugars, and contains no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. For optimal health, it's best consumed in moderation.
How does LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE compare to other marinades?
Compared to homemade marinades made with fresh ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, LAWRY'S contains significantly more added sugar and sodium. For example, a simple homemade marinade would not typically contain high fructose corn syrup or as much sodium as found in this product. When comparing to other branded marinades like Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade, nutritional profiles can vary, but many processed marinades share similar concerns regarding high sodium and added sugar.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this marinade?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE to provide sweetness and contribute to the marinade's texture and preservation. While it provides calories, it offers no other nutritional benefits and contributes to the product's added sugar content.
What is a typical serving size for this marinade?
The recommended serving size for LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE is 1 tablespoon. It's important to adhere to this portion size to manage your intake of sodium and added sugars, as larger amounts will significantly increase the nutritional impact of the marinade on your meal.
Can this marinade be used for purposes other than steak?
Yes, LAWRY'S ITALIAN GARLIC STEAK MARINADE can be used to flavor other proteins like chicken or pork, or even vegetables before roasting or grilling. However, regardless of what it's used on, the nutritional considerations regarding its sodium and added sugar content remain the same.