LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO scores 35/100 (Poor) due to its very high sodium content, which significantly outweighs its minor micronutrient contributions.
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO has a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor).
A serving contains 7200mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty.
This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a moderate level of processing.
It provides 444% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient bonus.
Use sparingly to manage sodium intake, especially when preparing meals for multiple people.
Scores +3 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
7200mg
313% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (7200mg)-12
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 35
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO receives a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor driving this score is its exceptionally high sodium content, measured at 7200mg per 100g. This amount incurs a substantial penalty of -12 points, reflecting its contribution to daily sodium limits. Additionally, the product's classification as NOVA 3 (processed) results in a -5 point penalty, indicating it contains multiple processed ingredients such as enriched wheat flour and natural flavor. On the positive side, LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX provides a significant amount of Vitamin A, contributing a +2 bonus to its score. However, this micronutrient benefit is largely overshadowed by the high sodium and processing penalties. When compared to a generic unbranded taco seasoning, this specific SKU's nutritional profile, particularly its sodium level, is a key differentiator.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's taco spices & seasoning mix, taco actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 444% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports vision, immune function, and cell growth. While the serving size is small, contributing a lesser amount per typical use, the concentration in the seasoning itself is high. This can be a minor contributor to your daily Vitamin A intake when used as part of a balanced meal.
Flavor Enhancement for Home Cooking
This seasoning mix can be a useful tool for enhancing the flavor of home-cooked meals, potentially encouraging the consumption of more vegetables and lean proteins. By adding a familiar and appealing taste profile, it can make dishes like lean ground turkey tacos or vegetable fajitas more palatable. This can be particularly helpful for individuals looking to incorporate more whole foods into their diet but who desire a boost in flavor without extensive preparation.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX offers convenience for quick meal preparation. For busy individuals, having a pre-mixed blend of spices can save time compared to measuring out individual spices. This convenience can support consistent home cooking, which often allows for greater control over ingredients and portion sizes than eating out. It simplifies the process of creating a flavorful taco or fajita dish.
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO scores 35/100 (Poor) due to its very high sodium content, which significantly outweighs its minor micronutrient contributions.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX is typically used to season ground meat or plant-based alternatives for tacos, burritos, or fajitas. A common portion is 2 teaspoons per serving, often mixed into a larger dish. It's a flavorful addition that can simplify meal preparation.
To manage sodium, consider using half the recommended amount of seasoning and supplementing with other low-sodium spices like chili powder or smoked paprika.
Pair with plenty of fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to add fiber and micronutrients to your meal.
Use this seasoning to flavor lean proteins such as chicken breast or fish, or plant-based options like lentils or black beans, to create a more balanced meal.
When preparing a large batch of taco meat, season only a portion with LAWRY'S and leave the rest unseasoned, allowing individuals to customize their sodium intake.
Consider making your own taco seasoning blend from individual spices to have full control over sodium and ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO is its very high sodium content. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes lactose (milk), indicating it contains a common allergen, milk. Those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should avoid this product. It also contains enriched wheat flour, which is a gluten-containing ingredient and an allergen for individuals with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities. While the product contains spices, onion, and garlic, which can be digestive irritants for some individuals with sensitive stomachs or IBS, the amounts per typical serving are generally small.
Is LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO healthy?
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX, TACO scores 35/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its high sodium content is a significant concern, contributing 7200mg per 100g. While it offers some Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially for those monitoring sodium intake.
How does LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX compare to other taco seasonings?
Compared to a generic unbranded taco seasoning, LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX has a similar NOVA 3 classification for processing. Its sodium content of 7200mg per 100g is a key factor to consider, as some other brands, like Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix, may offer lower sodium options, though specific comparisons require checking individual product labels.
What is 'natural flavor' in this seasoning mix?
'Natural flavor' in LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX refers to a flavor derived from a natural source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, or meat. Its purpose is solely for flavoring, not for nutritional value. The exact components are proprietary to the manufacturer.
How much of this seasoning should I use?
The serving size for LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX is 2 teaspoons. However, due to its high sodium content, consider using less than the recommended amount, especially if you are seasoning a dish for multiple people or if other ingredients in your meal also contain sodium. Adjust to taste while being mindful of overall sodium intake.
Can I use this seasoning for dishes other than tacos?
Yes, LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONING MIX can be used to flavor a variety of dishes beyond tacos. It can be added to chili, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even sprinkled on popcorn for a savory kick. Remember to account for the sodium content when incorporating it into different recipes.