OLDE CAPE COD,BALSAMIC WITH OLIVE OIL, VINAIGRETTE & MARINADE DRESSING
OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
OLDE CAPE COD dressing scores 11/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 11.69g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
This dressing provides 0g of protein, fiber, and omega-3 per 100g.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugars and calories.
Scores -21 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
11.69g
23% of Daily Value
Sodium
200mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Added sugar (11.7g)-14
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 11
OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing receives a FoodScore of 11 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant penalties. The product contains 11.69g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a substantial penalty of -14 points. This amount is considerable for a condiment typically used in smaller servings. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, resulting in an additional -10 point penalty. The presence of ingredients like canola oil, sugar, and caramel color contributes to this classification. The dressing also incurs a -15 point penalty for 'empty calories,' as it provides 267 calories per 100g with minimal to no beneficial macronutrients like protein or fiber, and negligible micronutrients. Compared to a generic unbranded balsamic vinaigrette, which often has lower added sugar and fewer processed ingredients, OLDE CAPE COD's formulation with added sugar and multiple oils positions it lower in nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in olde cape cod,balsamic with olive oil, vinaigrette & marinade dressing actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
While not a source of significant nutrients itself, OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing can be used in small amounts to enhance the palatability of vegetables or salads. For individuals who find plain vegetables unappealing, a small drizzle of this dressing might encourage greater consumption of nutrient-dense produce. The combination of vinegars, garlic, and natural flavor provides a savory and tangy profile that can make dishes more enjoyable. It can serve as a tool to increase overall vegetable intake, provided portions are carefully controlled to minimize added sugar and calorie contribution.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This dressing offers convenience for quick meal preparation, acting as both a vinaigrette and a marinade. Its ready-to-use format saves time in the kitchen, which can be beneficial for busy individuals. Instead of preparing a dressing from scratch, consumers can quickly add flavor to salads, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. The pre-mixed nature means consistent flavor without the need for multiple ingredients, making it a practical choice for those seeking efficiency in cooking and meal assembly.
Source of Dietary Fats
The dressing contains 20g of total fat per 100g, primarily from canola oil and olive oil. While it contains no saturated or trans fats, it does contribute dietary fats to a meal. Fats are essential for nutrient absorption and satiety. When used in moderation, the fats from this dressing can help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins present in other foods in the meal, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K found in vegetables. However, it is important to consider the overall fat intake from all dietary sources.
OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This vinaigrette and marinade dressing is typically used to flavor salads, as a marinade for meats or vegetables, or as a condiment for various dishes. A common portion size is 2 tablespoons. Due to its added sugar content, moderation is key to avoid excessive intake.
Use this dressing sparingly on salads, aiming for one tablespoon or less to manage added sugar and calorie intake.
Combine with plain vinegar or lemon juice to dilute the flavor and reduce the amount of dressing needed.
Consider this dressing as an occasional flavor enhancer rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring added sugar consumption.
Pair with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables to help balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing, which is 11.69g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for this when consuming the product. The ingredient list includes caramel color, which some individuals choose to avoid. While generally recognized as safe, some caramel colors can contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), a compound that has raised concerns in high doses. The product also contains 'natural flavor,' a broad term that can encompass various substances. No major allergens are explicitly listed, but individuals with sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
Is OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing healthy?
OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing scores 11/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It provides minimal beneficial nutrients.
How does OLDE CAPE COD compare to other balsamic vinaigrettes?
Compared to a generic unbranded balsamic vinaigrette, OLDE CAPE COD often contains a higher amount of added sugar and is classified as ultra-processed. For instance, some brands like Newman's Own Balsamic Vinaigrette might have similar or slightly lower added sugar content, but it's important to check individual labels. Many simpler vinaigrettes made with just oil, vinegar, and spices would score higher.
What is 'caramel color' in this dressing?
Caramel color is a food additive used to give the dressing its brown hue. It is produced by heating carbohydrates and is commonly found in many processed foods and beverages. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, some consumers choose to limit its intake.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dressing?
The declared serving size is 2 tablespoons. However, given its high added sugar and calorie content, a more moderate portion of 1 tablespoon or less may be advisable for those mindful of their intake. Using smaller amounts can help manage the nutritional impact.
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Yes, OLDE CAPE COD Balsamic with Olive Oil Vinaigrette & Marinade Dressing is formulated to be used as a marinade. Its acidic components from the vinegars can help tenderize meats, and the flavors can infuse into various foods. Remember to discard any marinade that has come into contact with raw meat.
Does this dressing contain any beneficial fats?
The dressing contains total fat from canola oil and olive oil. While it does not contain saturated or trans fats, it is not a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids, with 0g per 100g. The primary benefit of the fats here is to contribute to flavor and satiety, rather than providing specific beneficial fatty acids.