SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed classification**.
This product scores 0/100 (Avoid) on the FoodScore scale.
It contains 24.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 794.12mg of sodium per 100g, it is a high-sodium food.
Classified as NOVA 4, this BBQ sauce is an ultra-processed food.
Use in small portions to minimize intake of added sugar and sodium.
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
24.7g
49% of Daily Value
Sodium
794.12mg
35% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (24.7g)-25
Sodium (794.1mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, indicating it is not a recommended choice for regular consumption according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines. The primary factor driving this low score is the high amount of added sugar, at 24.7g per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty. Ingredients like organic sugar and organic molasses contribute to this sugar load. Additionally, the product contains 794.12mg of sodium per 100g, which is a considerable amount and also contributes to score penalties. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, further reducing its score by 10 points. The absence of protein, fiber, and beneficial micronutrients such as potassium, calcium, iron, and various vitamins (all at 0% DV) means it provides empty calories without contributing to essential nutrient intake. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein and calcium, this BBQ sauce provides minimal nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in simple truth organic bbq sauce, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Diets
For individuals following a diet that restricts fat or protein, such as those managing certain medical conditions, SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL can provide flavor without adding fat or protein. This product contains 0g of total fat and 0g of protein per 100g. It can be used in small amounts to enhance the taste of otherwise bland foods, making meals more palatable within specific dietary constraints where fat and protein intake need to be carefully controlled.
Organic Ingredient Sourcing
This product is made with organic ingredients, which may be a preference for some consumers. The ingredient list features items like organic tomato puree, organic sugar, and organic white vinegar, indicating that these components were produced under organic farming standards. While the organic certification addresses agricultural practices, it does not inherently alter the nutritional profile regarding added sugar or sodium content, which remain significant in this formulation.
Convenient Flavoring Option
As a pre-made sauce, SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL offers convenience for meal preparation. It can be used directly from the bottle to add a distinct BBQ flavor to various dishes without requiring additional seasoning or ingredient mixing. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking a quick way to enhance the taste of grilled meats, vegetables, or plant-based alternatives, provided the high added sugar and sodium are considered.
SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed classification.
How to eat it
BBQ sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or baked meats and vegetables. Common portion sizes are around 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to over-pour and exceed recommended serving sizes, leading to higher intake of added sugar and sodium.
Use SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE sparingly as a condiment, perhaps a tablespoon or less, to flavor grilled chicken or tofu.
Dilute the sauce with a little water or vinegar to reduce the intensity of flavor and the amount of added sugar and sodium per serving.
Pair with fiber-rich vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to add nutritional balance to your meal.
Consider making your own BBQ sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes and less added sugar to have more control over the nutritional content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high added sugar content in this BBQ sauce, primarily from organic sugar and organic molasses. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product in very limited quantities or seek alternatives. The high sodium content (794.12mg per 100g) is also a consideration, especially for those monitoring blood pressure. While the product is organic, this designation primarily relates to farming practices and does not mitigate the nutritional impact of ingredients like organic caramel color or xanthan gum, which are common in processed foods. There are no common allergens declared on the label based on the ingredient list provided.
Is SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL healthy?
SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (24.7g per 100g) and significant sodium levels (794.12mg per 100g). It is also classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and provides minimal beneficial nutrients.
How does SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE compare to other BBQ sauces?
Compared to many other branded BBQ sauces, SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL's nutritional profile, particularly its added sugar and sodium levels, is comparable to products like Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ Sauce. Many BBQ sauces in the category tend to be high in both added sugar and sodium, making this product typical for its category in these aspects. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options would need to specifically seek out those varieties.
What is 'organic caramel color' in the ingredient list?
Organic caramel color is a food coloring agent derived from heating carbohydrates, in this case, from organic sources. It is used to give the BBQ sauce its characteristic brown color. While it is an organic ingredient, it is still an additive used for aesthetic purposes rather than nutritional benefit, contributing to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this BBQ sauce?
A reasonable portion size for SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL is 2 tablespoons (30g), as indicated on the label. However, even this amount contributes a notable quantity of added sugar and sodium. For those mindful of these nutrients, using even less or diluting the sauce can help manage intake.
Can this BBQ sauce be used in a low-sugar diet?
Due to its high added sugar content (24.7g per 100g), SIMPLE TRUTH ORGANIC BBQ SAUCE, ORIGINAL is generally not suitable for individuals strictly following a low-sugar diet. Even small amounts would contribute significantly to daily sugar intake. It would be advisable to seek out specific 'sugar-free' or 'no added sugar' BBQ sauce alternatives.