FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidcondimentLAWRY'S· 1 1/2 tbsp

LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX, ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE

LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **very high sodium content** and significant amount of added sugar.

  • LAWRY'S Original Spaghetti Sauce Mix scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
  • The product contains 7111.11mg of sodium per 100g, a very high amount.
  • It provides 22.2g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
  • This SKU is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
  • Use sparingly to manage sodium and added sugar intake in meals.
  • Scores -32 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
22.2g
44% of Daily Value
Sodium
7111.11mg
309% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (22.2g)-25
Sodium (7111.1mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX earns a FoodScore of 0/100, reflecting its nutritional profile. The primary drivers for this low score are the high levels of sodium and added sugar. Per 100g, this product contains 7111.11mg of sodium, which incurs a significant penalty of -12 points. Additionally, the presence of 22.2g of added sugar leads to a substantial -25 point penalty, contributing to its classification as providing 'empty calories' (-15 points). The ingredient list begins with modified corn starch and sugar, indicating these are major components. The product is also categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which results in a -10 point penalty. While it does receive a small bonus of +2 points for its iron content (4.44mg, 25% DV), this is not enough to offset the numerous penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded spaghetti sauce, which typically contains less added sugar and sodium, LAWRY'S mix presents a less favorable nutritional option.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in lawry's original spaghetti sauce spices & seasonings mix, original spaghetti sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Convenient Flavor Base

LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX offers a convenient way to add flavor to homemade spaghetti sauces or other tomato-based dishes. Its blend of spices, onion, and garlic can simplify meal preparation, especially for those with limited time or cooking experience. While it does not contribute significant macronutrients, its primary benefit lies in providing a pre-measured and consistent flavor profile without needing to stock individual spices.

Source of Iron

This seasoning mix provides a modest amount of iron, with 4.44mg per 100g, which accounts for 25% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various bodily functions. While not a primary source of iron in a typical diet, incorporating this mix, even in small amounts, can contribute to daily iron intake, especially when combined with other iron-rich foods to enhance overall nutrient density of a meal.

Versatile Culinary Use

Beyond traditional spaghetti sauce, this mix can be used to season a variety of dishes. Its savory and slightly sweet profile, derived from ingredients like spices (including paprika and parsley), onion, and garlic, makes it suitable for flavoring meatballs, chili, or even as a rub for roasted vegetables. This versatility allows for creative culinary applications, helping to enhance the palatability of home-cooked meals that might otherwise be bland.

How to eat it

LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX is typically used to create a quick spaghetti sauce by combining it with tomato paste or crushed tomatoes. A common portion is 1 1/2 tbsp of the dry mix, which is then diluted into a larger volume of sauce. The main pitfall is the high concentration of sodium and added sugar in the mix itself, which can significantly increase the sodium and sugar content of the final dish.

To reduce sodium, consider using half the recommended amount of LAWRY'S mix and supplementing with fresh or dried herbs and spices.
Pair with unsalted canned tomatoes and avoid adding extra salt to the dish to better control overall sodium.
Incorporate plenty of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach into your sauce to boost fiber and micronutrients.
Serve your spaghetti sauce over whole-wheat pasta or spiralized vegetables to increase fiber intake and improve satiety.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (7111.11mg per 100g) and added sugar (22.2g per 100g) in LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX. Individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to limit sodium intake should use this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes Parmesan cheese and whey, indicating the presence of milk, which is an allergen. Additionally, hydrolyzed soy protein is present, making it unsuitable for individuals with soy allergies. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which may be a consideration for those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed foods.

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Reader questions
Is LAWRY'S Original Spaghetti Sauce Mix healthy?
LAWRY'S Original Spaghetti Sauce Mix is not considered a healthy choice, scoring 0/100 on FoodScore. This is largely due to its very high sodium content (7111.11mg per 100g) and significant amount of added sugar (22.2g per 100g). While it offers some iron, its overall nutritional profile is poor.
How does LAWRY'S compare to other spaghetti sauce brands?
Compared to many pre-made jarred spaghetti sauces like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce, LAWRY'S Original Spaghetti Sauce Mix typically has a much higher concentration of sodium and added sugar per serving of the mix. Many jarred sauces, while still processed, may offer a more balanced nutritional profile with less concentrated sodium and sugar when prepared.
What is 'modified corn starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified corn starch is a common food additive used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier. In LAWRY'S mix, it likely contributes to the desired texture of the sauce when prepared. It is generally recognized as safe but does not offer significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this mix?
The declared serving size for LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX is 1 1/2 tbsp. It's important to remember that this small amount contributes significantly to the sodium and added sugar of your entire dish. Consider using even less than the recommended serving to manage your intake of these nutrients.
Can I use this mix if I am lactose intolerant?
No, LAWRY'S ORIGINAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE SPICES & SEASONINGS MIX contains Parmesan cheese and whey, both of which are derived from milk. These ingredients contain lactose, making the product unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

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