LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning blend receives a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **very high sodium content**.
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas has a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor).
The primary nutritional concern is the 14000mg of sodium per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it is not a whole food.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this blend significantly increases sodium.
Use sparingly to manage sodium intake, as a 1 tsp serving still contributes substantial sodium.
Scores -11 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
14000mg
609% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (14000mg)-12
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 35
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas receives a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The most significant factor driving this score is the exceptionally high sodium content, which stands at 14000mg per 100g. Even in small serving sizes, this contributes substantially to daily sodium intake, leading to a significant penalty of -12 points. The product is also classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a -5 point penalty. While it does contain Vitamin A at 634% DV per 100g, this micronutrient bonus of +2 points is not enough to offset the substantial penalties. For instance, a home-cooked pork carnitas recipe using whole ingredients would likely have significantly less added sodium and no processing penalty. The ingredient list includes SALT as the first ingredient, directly correlating with the high sodium level, alongside spices, onion, garlic, and sugar. There are no significant amounts of protein, fiber, or healthy fats to provide balancing nutritional benefits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's, smoky pork carnitas actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Adds Flavor Without Fat or Calories
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning blend can be used to enhance the flavor of dishes without contributing additional fat or calories. Per 100g, this product contains 0g of total fat and 0 calories from fat, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their intake of these macronutrients. When used in small quantities, it provides a distinct smoky and savory profile to meats or vegetables, which can be beneficial for individuals looking to add taste without increasing the caloric density of their meals. This can be particularly useful in preparing lean protein sources.
Source of Vitamin A
This seasoning blend provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 634% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While the serving size of 1 teaspoon (which is a fraction of 100g) will provide a smaller absolute amount, regular use of seasonings like LAWRY'S that contain paprika and paprika extractives can contribute to overall dietary intake of this micronutrient. It's important to consider the overall dietary context for Vitamin A intake.
Convenient Flavor Solution
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas offers a convenient way to impart complex flavors to meals, saving time on measuring individual spices. For individuals with busy schedules, a pre-blended seasoning can simplify meal preparation, allowing for quick seasoning of meats or plant-based alternatives. This convenience can help encourage home cooking, which often allows for greater control over other ingredients, such as the amount of added sodium from other sources. The blend is designed to deliver a specific flavor profile efficiently.
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning blend receives a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its very high sodium content.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning is typically used to flavor pork for carnitas, but it can also be applied to other meats or plant-based proteins. A common portion is 1-2 teaspoons per pound of meat. The main pitfall is over-seasoning due to the high sodium content, which can lead to an excessively salty dish.
Use this seasoning blend as a rub for pork shoulder or other cuts, allowing it to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking to maximize flavor absorption.
To manage sodium, use half the amount recommended on the package and taste before adding more, supplementing with other salt-free spices like cumin or chili powder.
Incorporate into marinades for chicken or beef, or sprinkle on roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a smoky, savory kick.
Pair with fresh ingredients such as avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and salsa to balance the intensity of the seasoning and add fresh nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning is its extremely high sodium content. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product very sparingly. While the ingredient list includes natural flavor (including mesquite smoke), which is generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific flavor compounds. The product does not declare common allergens such as milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. However, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities, so those with severe allergies should exercise caution. For children, the high sodium content is also a concern, so portions should be carefully controlled.
LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning has a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor). Its primary nutritional drawback is the very high sodium content, at 14000mg per 100g. While it offers some Vitamin A, its classification as a processed food and high sodium level mean it should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas compare to other seasoning blends?
Compared to many other seasoning blends, LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas is notably high in sodium. For example, a generic chili powder blend might contain significantly less sodium per serving. Brands like McCormick also offer salt-free seasoning options that would be a better choice for those monitoring sodium intake.
What is 'natural flavor (including mesquite smoke)' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor (including mesquite smoke)' refers to a flavoring derived from natural sources, designed to impart a smoky taste. While the exact components are proprietary, these flavors are generally safe. They are added to enhance the sensory experience of the food, mimicking the taste of traditional cooking methods.
How much of this seasoning can I use in a day?
Given the 14000mg of sodium per 100g, even a small amount like 1 teaspoon (approximately 5g) would contribute 700mg of sodium. This is a significant portion of the recommended daily sodium limit (2300mg for most adults). It's best to use this seasoning sparingly and consider your overall sodium intake from all other foods consumed throughout the day.
Can this seasoning be used for vegetarian or vegan dishes?
Yes, LAWRY'S Smoky Pork Carnitas seasoning can be used to flavor vegetarian or vegan dishes. Its ingredients are plant-based, and it can add a smoky, savory depth to ingredients like jackfruit, mushrooms, or lentils, mimicking the flavor profile of carnitas. However, remember to account for the high sodium content.