Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
SWANSON GRAVY BEEF receives a FoodScore of 39/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. This category typically includes formulations of ingredients, many of which are industrial, that result from a series of industrial processes. The product incurs a significant penalty for its high sodium content, providing 450mg per 100g, which is a notable contribution to the daily recommended limit. While it contains 0g of total fat and 0g of saturated fat, and a relatively low 25 calories per 100g, these positive aspects are outweighed by the processing and sodium. The ingredient list includes modified food starch and maltodextrin, common processing aids and fillers. Compared to a home-cooked beef gravy made with whole ingredients, SWANSON GRAVY BEEF lacks the micronutrient density and fiber, and contains a higher concentration of sodium and added sugars (1.17g per 100g) that would typically not be present in a scratch-made version.
What the nutrients in swanson gravy beef actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
SWANSON GRAVY BEEF offers significant convenience for consumers looking to quickly add flavor and moisture to meals. Its ready-to-use format eliminates the need for preparing a gravy from scratch, which can be time-consuming. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking a quick meal enhancement during busy periods. The product's shelf stability also means it can be stored in the pantry and used as needed.
This product is notably low in calories and fat, providing only 25 calories and 0g of total fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their caloric or fat intake, SWANSON GRAVY BEEF can be a suitable option for adding flavor without significantly increasing these values. This makes it a versatile condiment for those aiming to manage their weight or reduce dietary fat, provided the sodium content is considered in the overall meal.
The primary role of SWANSON GRAVY BEEF is to enhance the flavor of dishes, particularly those involving beef or other savory components. Its blend of beef stock and flavorings can add depth and richness to otherwise plain meals. This can be beneficial for making meals more palatable, which might encourage consumption of less appealing but nutrient-dense foods, such as lean proteins or vegetables, when used in moderation.
SWANSON GRAVY BEEF is typically used as a condiment or sauce to accompany various savory dishes, most commonly roasted meats like beef or turkey. A common serving size is 0.25 cup, which can be poured over meat, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. It's often heated before serving to improve its consistency and flavor.
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in SWANSON GRAVY BEEF, providing 450mg per 100g. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes soy sauce (wheat, soybeans, salt, maltodextrin), indicating the presence of common allergens wheat and soy. Those with celiac disease or soy allergies should avoid this product. The presence of caramel color is also noted, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients that are not typically found in a home kitchen, such as modified food starch and maltodextrin.