LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS, TACO receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and the presence of **added sugars**.
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS scores 2/100, indicating it is not a recommended daily choice.
This product contains 6800mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount for a seasoning.
With 14g of added sugar per 100g, this seasoning contributes to daily sugar intake.
Classified as NOVA 3, it is a processed food, similar to many other spice blends.
Use sparingly to manage sodium and added sugar intake in meals.
Scores -30 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
14g
28% of Daily Value
Sodium
6800mg
296% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (6800mg)-12
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 2
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS, TACO receives a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary drivers for this low score are its high sodium content and the presence of added sugar. Per 100g, this seasoning contains 6800mg of sodium, which incurs a significant penalty of -12 points. Additionally, there are 14g of added sugar per 100g, leading to an -18 point deduction. The product is also classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which results in a -5 point penalty. Furthermore, the lack of significant protein, fiber, or healthy fats contributes to an 'empty calories' penalty of -15 points. While LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS does offer a bonus of +2 points for its Vitamin A content (444% DV per 100g), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. The ingredient list includes salt and sugar early on, confirming these are key components. Compared to a generic unbranded taco seasoning, LAWRY'S performs similarly due to comparable nutritional profiles often found in this category of processed spice blends.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lawry's taco spices & seasonings, taco actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Meals
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS can be used to add flavor to dishes, making meals more palatable without adding significant calories from fat. Its blend of spices, including paprika and chili peppers, provides a distinct taste profile that can enhance the enjoyment of lean proteins or vegetables. This can be particularly useful for individuals looking to make healthier food choices more appealing.
Source of Vitamin A
This seasoning provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, with 444% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential micronutrient important for vision, immune function, and skin health. While the typical serving size is small, contributing less Vitamin A per meal, it's a positive aspect of the overall nutritional composition, primarily from the paprika content.
Convenient Meal Preparation
Using a pre-blended seasoning like LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS offers convenience in meal preparation. It eliminates the need to measure and combine multiple individual spices, saving time in the kitchen. This can be beneficial for busy individuals or those new to cooking, helping them create flavorful meals more easily.
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS, TACO receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and the presence of added sugars.
How to eat it
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS is typically used to flavor ground meat, poultry, or plant-based alternatives for tacos, burritos, or fajitas. A common portion is 2 teaspoons per serving of meat, which contributes to the overall flavor of the dish. It's important to consider the sodium and added sugar it adds to the meal.
To manage sodium intake, consider using half the recommended amount of LAWRY'S seasoning and supplementing with fresh herbs and spices.
Pair with lean protein sources like chicken breast or fish, and plenty of vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
When preparing tacos, opt for whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of refined flour tortillas to increase fiber.
Be mindful of other high-sodium ingredients in your meal, such as cheese or salsa, to keep overall sodium levels in check.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS, which is 6800mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should use this product sparingly. The seasoning also contains lactose (milk) and enriched wheat flour, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or celiac disease, respectively. The presence of sugar and cocoa powder processed with alkali contributes to the added sugar content, which may be a consideration for those managing blood sugar levels. Always check the ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS receives a FoodScore of 2/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high sodium content (6800mg per 100g) and the presence of added sugars (14g per 100g). While it offers some Vitamin A, these other factors outweigh any potential benefits.
How does LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS compare to other taco seasonings?
Compared to a generic unbranded taco seasoning, LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS often has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in terms of high sodium and added sugar. Many brands in this category, such as Old El Paso Taco Seasoning, also contain significant amounts of sodium and sugar. Always check the nutrition facts panel of any seasoning for specific nutrient values.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' doing in taco seasoning?
Enriched wheat flour is included in LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS as a thickening agent and to prevent caking. It helps to bind the spices and distribute them evenly in the final dish. While it's a common ingredient in many processed foods, it contributes to the product's NOVA 3 classification as a processed food.
How much LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS can I use daily?
Given its high sodium and added sugar content, it is advisable to use LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS in moderation. A typical serving size is 2 teaspoons, which contributes a portion of the daily recommended limits for sodium and sugar. For daily use, consider alternatives with lower sodium and no added sugar.
Does this seasoning contain MSG?
The ingredient list for LAWRY'S TACO SPICES & SEASONINGS, TACO does not explicitly list MSG (monosodium glutamate). The label declares 'natural flavor,' which can sometimes encompass flavor enhancers, but MSG itself is not listed. If you are sensitive to MSG, it's always best to review the full ingredient list carefully.