SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its **high added sugar content**.
FoodScore: 0/100 (Avoid) due to significant nutritional concerns.
Contains 32.4g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 702.7mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount.
Best used sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary food source.
Scores -33 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
32.4g
65% of Daily Value
Sodium
702.7mg
31% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (32.4g)-25
Sodium (702.7mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY earns a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 32.4g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list highlights high fructose corn syrup as the first ingredient, followed by honey, indicating a substantial presence of caloric sweeteners. Furthermore, the product contains 702.7mg of sodium per 100g, contributing another -3 penalty points. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it receives an additional -10 penalty for being ultra-processed, meaning it contains multiple ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. The absence of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, along with minimal micronutrients, results in a -15 penalty for empty calories. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein, calcium, and vitamin D, SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY offers very little in terms of beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in signature select honey bbq sauce, honey actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY can serve as a flavoring agent to enhance the palatability of certain meals. Its sweet and savory profile can make lean proteins or vegetables more appealing, potentially encouraging consumption of otherwise plain foods. This product's role is primarily to add taste, not to contribute significantly to daily nutritional intake, and it should be used in small, controlled portions.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
This product offers convenience in meal preparation, allowing for quick flavor additions without needing to combine multiple ingredients from scratch. For individuals with limited time for cooking, having a ready-to-use sauce can streamline the process of preparing meals. It can be particularly useful for marinades or basting, reducing the effort required to create a distinctive taste profile for dishes like grilled chicken or ribs.
Source of Quick Energy (in moderation)
Due to its high sugar content, SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY provides a rapid source of carbohydrates, which the body can convert into energy. While not a recommended primary energy source, in very small amounts, it could offer a quick energy boost. However, it's important to recognize that this energy comes with minimal nutritional value, making it a less ideal choice compared to whole food carbohydrate sources like fruits or whole grains.
SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce. It's commonly paired with grilled or baked meats, sandwiches, or as a dipping sauce. Given its high sugar and sodium content, portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Use this sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary component of your meal; a small amount can go a long way.
Pair with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile and add fiber.
Consider diluting with a splash of vinegar or water to reduce the intensity of sweetness and sodium per serving.
Measure your serving (2 Tbsp) to avoid overconsumption of added sugars and sodium.
Explore making your own BBQ sauce at home to control ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and sodium levels.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high levels of added sugar and sodium in SIGNATURE SELECT HONEY BBQ SAUCE, HONEY. The first ingredient, high fructose corn syrup, contributes significantly to the caloric density without providing essential nutrients. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its carbohydrate content. The presence of sodium benzoate and sulfites are preservatives, which some sensitive individuals may wish to limit. While generally recognized as safe, the ultra-processed nature of the product, indicated by its NOVA 4 classification, suggests a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients.
SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce is not considered a healthy food choice. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore primarily due to its high added sugar content (32.4g per 100g) and significant sodium (702.7mg per 100g). It also lacks essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and most vitamins and minerals.
How does SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce compare to other BBQ sauces?
Compared to many other branded BBQ sauces, SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce's nutritional profile is similar in its high levels of added sugar and sodium. For instance, a typical Sweet Baby Ray's Honey BBQ Sauce also features high fructose corn syrup and similar sugar and sodium counts. Many BBQ sauces fall into the ultra-processed category with comparable nutritional drawbacks.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener derived from corn starch. It is used in SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce, and many other processed foods, as a low-cost sweetener and to improve texture and shelf life. Its presence as the first ingredient indicates it is a major component of the sauce.
What is a reasonable portion size for this BBQ sauce?
The declared serving size for SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce is 2 tablespoons. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of added sugars and sodium. Using it sparingly as a condiment is recommended, rather than in large quantities.
Can I use this sauce if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, SIGNATURE SELECT Honey BBQ Sauce is not an ideal choice. With 32.4g of added sugar per 100g, even a small serving contributes significantly to daily sugar limits. Consider alternative sauces with no added sugar or make your own from scratch.