Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
The primary concern is the high level of added sugar, at 17.6g per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
It contains significantly more added sugar and sodium than a generic hot sauce.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -46 points above the condiment category average (46/100 across 29 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.6g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
941.18mg
41% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.6g)-23
Sodium (941.2mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce earns a FoodScore of 0/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant penalties for several factors. The product contains 17.6g of added sugar per 100g, contributing a substantial -23 penalty. Additionally, its sodium content is high at 941.18mg per 100g, resulting in a -4 penalty. The ingredient list, which includes Red Gold Ketchup and several preservatives like Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Bisulfite, classifies this product as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring a -10 penalty. Furthermore, the absence of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients leads to a -15 penalty for empty calories. Compared to a generic unbranded hot sauce, Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce has a higher concentration of both added sugar and sodium, while offering no meaningful nutritional benefits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in huy fong sriracha hot chili sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Diets
For individuals following a low-fat or fat-free diet, Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce can be a useful condiment. With 0g of total fat per 100g, it provides a flavorful kick without contributing to dietary fat intake. This can be beneficial for adding zest to meals where fat content is a primary consideration, such as lean protein dishes or vegetable preparations. However, it is important to be mindful of the added sugar and sodium content when incorporating it into a regular eating pattern.
Calorie-Conscious Flavoring
When used in small, controlled portions, Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce can offer flavor with a relatively low caloric impact per serving. A typical serving size of 1 tablespoon (17g) contains approximately 15 calories, making it a calorie-efficient way to add spice to meals. This can be advantageous for those monitoring their overall calorie intake, provided they are also aware of the sugar and sodium contributions from even small amounts of the sauce.
Versatile Culinary Addition
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce is a versatile condiment that can enhance the palatability of various dishes. Its distinct spicy and tangy profile can make otherwise bland foods more appealing, potentially encouraging consumption of nutrient-dense but less flavorful ingredients like plain vegetables or lean proteins. This versatility can be a practical benefit for those looking to add interest to their meals, though the nutritional trade-offs should be considered.
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce is typically used as a flavor enhancer or dipping sauce, often added to Asian-inspired dishes, eggs, sandwiches, and even soups. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which provides a noticeable spicy kick. The main pitfall is over-reliance, which can lead to excessive intake of added sugar and sodium.
Use Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce as a finishing sauce rather than cooking with it, to better control portion sizes.
Combine a small amount with plain Greek yogurt or avocado to create a creamier, lower-sodium dip for vegetables or lean protein.
Dilute with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a dash of vinegar to reduce the intensity and spread the flavor further.
Pair with dishes rich in fiber and protein, such as stir-fries with plenty of vegetables and chicken, to help balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce, which is 941.18mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, particularly those with hypertension or at risk for cardiovascular disease, should use this product sparingly. The presence of Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Bisulfite as preservatives may be a concern for individuals with sensitivities to sulfites. While generally recognized as safe, sulfites can trigger asthma symptoms in some sensitive individuals. The product also contains added sugar, which should be considered by individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes.
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (17.6g per 100g) and sodium (941.18mg per 100g), and provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. It is best used in very small, infrequent portions.
How does Huy Fong Sriracha compare to other hot sauces?
Compared to many other hot sauces, Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce tends to have a higher added sugar content. For example, while a brand like Tabasco Original Red Sauce contains no added sugar, Huy Fong's formulation includes sugar as a primary ingredient. This difference significantly impacts its nutritional profile, particularly for those monitoring sugar intake.
What is 'Red Gold Ketchup' doing in the ingredient list?
The ingredient list indicates that this product is a blend, starting with Red Gold Ketchup as its primary component. This means the nutritional profile, including the added sugar and sodium, is significantly influenced by the ketchup base. The ketchup itself contains tomato concentrate, sugar, and distilled vinegar, contributing to the overall flavor and nutritional values.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A reasonable portion size for Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce is typically 1 tablespoon (17g). This amount delivers approximately 3g of added sugar and 160mg of sodium. Due to its high concentration of these components, it's advisable to use it sparingly to avoid excessive intake, especially if consuming multiple servings throughout the day.
Can I use this sauce if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce should be used with caution and in very small quantities. With 17.6g of added sugar per 100g, it contributes significantly to daily sugar limits. Consider alternative hot sauces that are explicitly labeled as 'no added sugar' or have a much lower sugar content if this is a primary dietary goal.