OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade receives a FoodScore of 1/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar and sodium content** and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade scores 1/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
This marinade contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 1466.67mg of sodium per 100g, it is a very high sodium product.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, which is a key factor in its low FoodScore.
Use this marinade sparingly to flavor dishes, focusing on smaller portion sizes.
Scores -31 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
1466.67mg
64% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (1466.7mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 1
OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade receives a FoodScore of 1 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by several significant penalties. The product incurs an 18-point penalty for its high added sugar content, providing 14g per 100g. Additionally, its substantial sodium level, at 1466.67mg per 100g, results in an 8-point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to a further 10-point deduction. The formulation also contributes to 15 points in 'empty calories' penalties, indicating a lack of beneficial macronutrients like protein and fiber. While OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade does receive a minor bonus of 2 points for its Vitamin C content (18% DV), this is insufficient to offset the numerous penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded sweet and sour marinade, this product's nutrient profile, particularly its high sugar and sodium from ingredients like sugar and salt, aligns with the typical challenges found in this category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in olde cape cod, sweet & sour marinade actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Flavor Enhancement
OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade can be used to impart a distinct sweet and sour flavor to various dishes. For those seeking to add a specific taste profile to meats, vegetables, or stir-fries, this marinade offers a convenient option. Its blend of pineapple juice concentrate, distilled vinegar, and spices creates a characteristic flavor that can make meals more palatable, especially when cooking with leaner proteins or less flavorful vegetables. This can be a useful tool for encouraging consumption of otherwise plain foods.
Source of Vitamin C
This marinade provides 18% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role as an antioxidant and its contribution to immune function. While the serving size is small, and the overall nutritional profile is not ideal, the presence of Vitamin C is a minor positive. Consumers can benefit from this micronutrient, which supports collagen formation and iron absorption, even in small amounts when incorporated into a balanced meal.
Convenient for Meal Preparation
OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade offers a convenient solution for quick meal preparation. Its ready-to-use format eliminates the need to mix multiple ingredients to achieve a sweet and sour flavor. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those who prefer pre-made sauces for ease of use. The convenience factor allows for faster assembly of meals, potentially reducing reliance on less healthy takeout options.
OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade receives a FoodScore of 1/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar and sodium content and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Sweet and sour marinades like OLDE CAPE COD are typically used to tenderize and flavor meats, poultry, or seafood before cooking, or as a sauce for stir-fries. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which is generally enough to impart flavor without overwhelming a dish. The main pitfall is using too much, which can significantly increase added sugar and sodium intake.
Use OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade as a flavoring agent rather than a primary sauce, applying it lightly to proteins or vegetables.
Dilute the marinade with water or a low-sodium broth to reduce the concentration of sugar and sodium while still retaining flavor.
Pair marinated foods with plenty of non-starchy vegetables and whole grains to create a more balanced meal.
Measure your portion carefully; a little goes a long way in flavoring your dish and managing your intake of added sugar and sodium.
Consider making your own sweet and sour sauce from scratch using fresh pineapple juice, vinegar, and less added sugar to have more control over ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The presence of soy sauce indicates the inclusion of soy and wheat, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be aware of the wheat content. The high sodium content (1466.67mg per 100g) means that even a small serving can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. The high added sugar content (14g per 100g) should be noted by those monitoring blood sugar levels, such as individuals with diabetes. The inclusion of modified corn starch and xanthan gum are common thickeners and stabilizers, generally recognized as safe, but contribute to the ultra-processed nature of the product. Overall, while no specific ingredient is acutely dangerous, the combination of high sugar and sodium requires mindful consumption.
No, OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade is not considered healthy for regular consumption, receiving a FoodScore of 1/100. This is primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and sodium, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers a small amount of Vitamin C, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be used sparingly.
How does OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade compare to other marinades?
Compared to a generic unbranded sweet and sour marinade, OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high added sugar and sodium. When compared to a brand like Kikkoman Sweet & Sour Sauce, the OLDE CAPE COD product may have comparable or slightly higher sugar and sodium depending on the specific Kikkoman formulation. Many bottled marinades in this category share similar challenges with added sugars and sodium.
What is 'pineapple juice concentrate' in this marinade?
Pineapple juice concentrate is pineapple juice that has had most of its water removed, making it a more concentrated form of the fruit's sugars and flavors. In OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade, it contributes to both the sweetness and the characteristic flavor profile. While derived from fruit, it is still a source of concentrated sugars.
How much of this marinade can I use daily?
Given its high added sugar and sodium content, it is advisable to use OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade in very small portions, such as 1 tablespoon or less, and not on a daily basis. Frequent or large servings would contribute significantly to exceeding recommended daily limits for added sugars and sodium, which can negatively impact health over time.
Can I use this marinade for grilling?
Yes, OLDE CAPE COD Sweet & Sour Marinade can be used for grilling. It is designed to flavor meats and vegetables, making it suitable for high-heat cooking methods. However, be mindful that the sugars in the marinade can caramelize and burn quickly on the grill, so it's often best to apply it towards the end of cooking or use it as a basting sauce.