Sriracha earns a 'Good' FoodScore of 65/100, primarily due to its notable micronutrient content, particularly Vitamin C, despite a high sodium level.
Sriracha is a minimally processed condiment, classified as NOVA 1.
A 100g serving provides 64% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C.
It contains 1540mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty in its FoodScore.
This condiment offers 2.2g of fiber per 100g, which is a positive nutritional aspect.
It has no added sugar and a low calorie count of 79 per 100g.
Scores +6 points above the condiment category average (59/100 across 17 foods).
Fiber
2.2g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
1.86g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1540mg
67% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.2g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Riboflavin)+12
Whole food (NOVA 1)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (1540mg)-8
Why it scores 65
Sriracha achieves a 'Good' FoodScore of 65 out of 100, reflecting a balance of beneficial micronutrients and fiber against a significant sodium penalty. Its classification as a NOVA 1 food contributes a substantial +10 bonus, indicating it is unprocessed or minimally processed. The condiment also receives a +1 bonus for its fiber content, providing 2.2g per 100g. A notable +12 bonus comes from its rich micronutrient profile, with a 100g serving delivering 64% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C, 15% for Vitamin A, and 11% for Iron. These contributions highlight its nutritional density beyond just flavor. However, a significant detractor is its high sodium content, with 1540mg per 100g, resulting in an -8 penalty. To achieve a higher score, the sodium content would need to be substantially reduced, as this is the primary factor limiting a better FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sriracha actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Immune Function
Sriracha can contribute to immune system support primarily through its high Vitamin C content. A 100g serving provides 64% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant. Vitamin C is well-known for its role in various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems, helping to protect cells from damage. While sriracha is typically consumed in smaller amounts, even a modest serving can add to your daily intake of this crucial vitamin. It's important to consume a variety of foods rich in Vitamin C for comprehensive immune health.
Provides Antioxidant Vitamins
This condiment offers antioxidant benefits from its vitamin content. Beyond Vitamin C, sriracha also contains Vitamin A, providing 15% of the Daily Value per 100g. Both Vitamin C and Vitamin A are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. This cellular protection is important for overall health and can contribute to reducing oxidative stress. While sriracha is not a primary source of all antioxidants, its contribution of these key vitamins is a positive aspect of its nutritional profile when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Source of Iron
Sriracha contributes to your daily iron intake, an essential mineral for numerous bodily functions. A 100g serving provides 1.92mg of iron, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is crucial for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body, and myoglobin, which provides oxygen to muscles. Adequate iron intake is vital for energy metabolism and preventing iron-deficiency anemia. While typically consumed in small portions, sriracha can be a minor, yet consistent, source of this important mineral, especially in plant-based diets.
Contains Dietary Fiber
Sriracha contains dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. With 2.2g of fiber per 100g, it contributes to the recommended daily intake. Fiber is known to support regular bowel movements, help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, and contribute to feelings of fullness. While a typical serving of sriracha is small, its fiber content is a positive attribute for a condiment, as many condiments offer little to no fiber. Incorporating fiber-rich foods, including those with small but consistent amounts, is key for overall digestive wellness.
Sriracha earns a 'Good' FoodScore of 65/100, primarily due to its notable micronutrient content, particularly Vitamin C, despite a high sodium level.
How to eat it
Sriracha is a popular hot sauce in American cuisine, often used to add a spicy, tangy kick to a wide range of dishes. It's commonly drizzled over eggs, noodles, rice dishes, and sandwiches, or incorporated into marinades and dipping sauces. Due to its concentrated flavor and heat, it's typically used in small portions, usually a teaspoon or tablespoon at a time, rather than consumed in large quantities. This allows its distinctive flavor profile to enhance meals without overpowering them.
Use sriracha as a flavor enhancer in marinades for chicken, tofu, or vegetables before grilling or baking.
Mix sriracha with mayonnaise or yogurt to create a spicy, creamy sauce for sandwiches, wraps, or as a dip for fries.
Add a dash of sriracha to soups, stews, or stir-fries during cooking to boost the heat and complexity of the dish.
Store sriracha in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator after opening to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with sriracha relates to its high sodium content. A 100g serving contains 1540mg of sodium, which is a significant amount. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure or kidney disease, should consume sriracha sparingly. Additionally, the capsaicin responsible for its heat can cause gastrointestinal discomfort or heartburn in sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities. There are no widely documented common allergies or significant drug interactions associated with sriracha at normal serving sizes.
Sriracha has a FoodScore of 65/100, indicating it's a 'Good' choice. It offers beneficial micronutrients like Vitamin C (64% DV per 100g) and iron (11% DV per 100g), along with some fiber. However, its high sodium content (1540mg per 100g) is a significant drawback. When consumed in typical small serving sizes, it can be part of a balanced diet, but moderation is key due to sodium.
Is sriracha good for weight loss?
Sriracha is low in calories (79 per 100g) and contains no added sugar, making it a suitable condiment for those managing weight. The capsaicin in chili peppers may also have a minor effect on metabolism and satiety, though this effect is generally small. However, its high sodium content should be considered, as excessive sodium can contribute to water retention.
Is sriracha an ultra-processed food?
No, sriracha is classified as a NOVA 1 food, meaning it is unprocessed or minimally processed. This classification indicates that it retains most of its natural properties and contains few, if any, added ingredients beyond basic seasonings. This makes it a better choice compared to many highly processed condiments.
How should I store sriracha after opening?
After opening, sriracha should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and quality. While it can last for a long time due to its acidity, refrigeration helps preserve its flavor and prevents spoilage. Always check the 'best by' date on the bottle.
What are some good alternatives to sriracha?
If you're looking for alternatives, consider other hot sauces like tabasco or sambal oelek for heat, though their flavor profiles differ. For a less spicy option with a similar tang, a dash of rice vinegar or lime juice can be used. If you want to reduce sodium, look for low-sodium hot sauces or make your own chili-garlic paste at home.
Can sriracha help with digestion?
Sriracha contains 2.2g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to digestive health. Fiber is known to support regular bowel movements and a healthy gut microbiome. However, the capsaicin in sriracha can also cause digestive upset in some individuals, particularly those sensitive to spicy foods or with conditions like IBS. Consume in moderation to assess individual tolerance.
Does sriracha have any added sugar?
No, sriracha contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This is a positive nutritional aspect, as many condiments can be significant sources of added sugars. This makes sriracha a better choice for those monitoring their sugar intake compared to sweeter sauces.