FoodScore
0/ 100
Goodcondiment· 100 g

Mustard Dijon

Dijon mustard scores well at 71/100, primarily due to its minimal processing and notable vitamin C content, making it a good choice for a flavorful condiment.

  • Dijon mustard is minimally processed, classified as NOVA 1.
  • A 100g serving provides 78% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C.
  • It contains no added sugar and only 20mg of sodium per 100g.
  • Each 100g serving offers 3.2g of fiber, contributing to daily intake.
  • It is low in calories at just 27 per 100g, making it a light flavor enhancer.
  • Scores +12 points above the condiment category average (59/100 across 17 foods).
Fiber
3.2g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
2.86g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
20mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.2g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K)+8
Whole food (NOVA 1)+10
−
What holds it back

Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.

Why it scores 71

Dijon mustard achieves a 'Good' FoodScore of 71/100, largely driven by its excellent nutritional profile for a condiment. It receives a significant +10 bonus for being a minimally processed whole food, classified as NOVA 1, meaning it retains most of its natural integrity. The presence of beneficial micronutrients also contributes positively, earning an +8 bonus, particularly for its high Vitamin C content (78% DV per 100g) and good levels of Vitamin A (17% DV). Furthermore, its 3.2g of fiber per 100g adds a +3 bonus, supporting digestive health. A key strength is its absence of added sugar and very low sodium content (20mg per 100g), which are common pitfalls for many condiments. The low calorie count (27 calories per 100g) and minimal fat content (0.42g total fat) also contribute to its favorable score. To achieve an even higher score, Dijon mustard would need to provide more diverse micronutrients in higher percentages or a greater amount of protein, though its current formulation is already highly commendable for its category.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mustard dijon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Immune Function

Dijon mustard is a surprisingly good source of Vitamin C, providing 78% of the Daily Value in a 100g serving. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in supporting the immune system, helping to protect cells from damage and aiding in the production of white blood cells. While typically consumed in smaller quantities, incorporating Dijon mustard can contribute to your overall intake of this important vitamin. Research supports that adequate Vitamin C intake is crucial for maintaining immune health and can help reduce the duration of common colds.

Aids Digestive Health

With 3.2g of fiber per 100g, Dijon mustard contributes to your daily fiber intake, which is vital for digestive health. Dietary fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Although a typical serving size of mustard is smaller, regular inclusion of fiber-rich foods like Dijon mustard can collectively help meet the recommended daily fiber intake, which is often lacking in the American diet. The fiber content also contributes to satiety, potentially helping with weight management.

Promotes Antioxidant Activity

Dijon mustard contains several micronutrients with antioxidant properties, including Vitamin C (78% DV) and Vitamin A (17% DV) per 100g. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases. By reducing oxidative stress, these compounds play a role in overall cellular health and disease prevention. While not a primary source, the presence of these vitamins in Dijon mustard adds to its nutritional value as a condiment.

Supports Bone Health

Dijon mustard provides modest amounts of minerals important for bone health, including calcium (9% DV) and magnesium (8% DV) per 100g. Calcium is the primary mineral in bones, essential for their structure and strength, while magnesium plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone formation. While a small serving won't meet daily requirements, these contributions add to the overall intake of these vital minerals. Dietary guidelines emphasize the importance of a varied diet to ensure adequate intake of nutrients for strong bones throughout life.

How to eat it

Dijon mustard is a versatile condiment, typically used to add a pungent, tangy flavor to a wide array of dishes in the US diet. It's commonly found in sandwiches, salad dressings, marinades, and as a dipping sauce. Its strong flavor means a little goes a long way, making it an excellent choice for adding depth without significant calories or unhealthy fats. It's a great way to enhance meals while keeping sodium and added sugar low.

Use Dijon mustard as a base for homemade vinaigrettes; combine with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a healthier salad dressing.
Incorporate Dijon into marinades for chicken, fish, or tofu to add flavor and help tenderize, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Spread a thin layer on sandwiches or wraps instead of mayonnaise to reduce fat and calories while boosting flavor with its distinctive tang.
Whisk a spoonful into scrambled eggs or an omelet for an unexpected flavor boost that complements the richness of the eggs, adding zest without extra sodium.
Things to keep in mind

Dijon mustard is generally safe for most individuals when consumed in typical serving sizes. However, some people may experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to its pungent nature, especially if consumed in large quantities. Individuals with a known allergy to mustard seeds should avoid Dijon mustard, as it can trigger allergic reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to more severe symptoms. There are no widely documented significant drug interactions or specific populations that need to avoid Dijon mustard at normal serving sizes, making it a safe condiment choice for the general public.

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Reader questions
Is Dijon mustard healthy?
Yes, Dijon mustard is considered a healthy condiment. It scores well at 71/100 on FoodScore, largely due to being minimally processed (NOVA 1) and having no added sugar. It also provides notable amounts of Vitamin C and fiber, making it a flavorful and nutritious addition to meals.
Is Dijon mustard good for weight loss?
Dijon mustard can be a good choice for weight loss. It is very low in calories, with only 27 calories per 100g, and contains no added sugar or significant fat. Using it to flavor foods can help reduce the need for higher-calorie condiments, supporting calorie control without sacrificing taste.
Is Dijon mustard ultra-processed?
No, Dijon mustard is not ultra-processed. It is classified as NOVA 1, meaning it is a minimally processed food. This indicates it retains most of its natural integrity and does not contain many artificial ingredients, making it a healthier choice compared to many other condiments.
How should I store Dijon mustard?
Unopened Dijon mustard can be stored in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, it should always be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and flavor. Proper refrigeration helps to prevent spoilage and extends its shelf life, ensuring the best quality and taste for longer.
What are some good alternatives to Dijon mustard?
If you're looking for alternatives, yellow mustard is a common substitute, though it has a milder flavor. For a different profile, consider horseradish for a spicy kick or a balsamic glaze for sweetness and tang. Each offers a unique flavor, but Dijon stands out for its balanced pungency and versatility.
Does Dijon mustard contain gluten?
Most traditional Dijon mustards are naturally gluten-free, as their primary ingredients are mustard seeds, vinegar, water, and spices. However, it's always best to check the label for specific brands, especially if you have a severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
Can Dijon mustard help with inflammation?
While Dijon mustard contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, which can help reduce oxidative stress, it is not a primary anti-inflammatory food. Its contribution to reducing inflammation would be minor as part of a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet. Focus on whole foods rich in antioxidants for significant anti-inflammatory benefits.

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Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy, fdcId 169256)Updated 2026-04-20