SWANSON, FLAVOR BOOST, CONCENTRATED FLAVOR BLEND, SWEET ONION & BURGUNDY WINE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This SWANSON product has a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
A single serving contributes significantly to daily sodium intake, with 6800mg per 100g.
It contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, differing from less processed dairy options.
Use sparingly to enhance flavor in dishes, being mindful of its high sodium and added sugar.
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
14g
28% of Daily Value
Sodium
6800mg
296% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (6800mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
The SWANSON FLAVOR BOOST, CONCENTRATED FLAVOR BLEND scores 0 out of 100, reflecting its nutritional profile. A significant factor is the high sodium content, at 6800mg per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. Additionally, the product contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to empty calories and further lowering its score. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, indicating it has undergone extensive industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as maltodextrin and yeast extract. This classification also contributes to its low score. The product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein and calcium, this SWANSON product offers very little in terms of essential nutrients, making it a less favorable choice for nutritional contribution.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swanson, flavor boost, concentrated flavor blend, sweet onion & burgundy wine, sweet onion & burgundy wine actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
This SWANSON product can be useful for adding a specific flavor profile to certain dishes. Its concentrated sweet onion and burgundy wine notes can enhance the taste of savory meals, particularly when aiming for a gourmet touch without extensive preparation. While it doesn't offer significant nutritional benefits, its role is primarily to boost palatability in small quantities, making meals more enjoyable for some individuals.
Convenience in Cooking
The concentrated nature of this flavor blend offers convenience in cooking. It allows for quick incorporation of specific flavors without needing to chop fresh onions or reduce wine, which can be time-consuming. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with limited time for meal preparation, providing a ready-to-use flavor solution for various recipes.
Dietary Flexibility for Specific Needs
For individuals following a diet that requires zero fat or protein, this product fits those parameters. It contains 0g of total fat and 0g of protein per 100g, making it suitable for specific dietary restrictions where these macronutrients need to be minimized. However, it is important to consider the high sodium and added sugar content when incorporating it into such diets.
SWANSON, FLAVOR BOOST, CONCENTRATED FLAVOR BLEND, SWEET ONION & BURGUNDY WINE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
SWANSON FLAVOR BOOST is typically used as a flavoring agent in cooking, not consumed directly. It's designed to be added in small amounts to sauces, marinades, soups, or stews to enhance their taste. Common pitfalls include using too much, which can lead to an overly salty or sweet dish.
Use sparingly in recipes to avoid excessive sodium and added sugar intake.
Consider diluting with water or unsalted broth to control flavor intensity and sodium levels.
Pair with fresh vegetables and lean proteins to balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
Use as a substitute for fresh ingredients only when time is a significant constraint, prioritizing whole foods when possible.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in this product, which is 6800mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or at risk for cardiovascular disease, should use this product with extreme caution and in very small quantities. The presence of added sugar (14g per 100g) also warrants consideration for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. While natural flavor is listed, the overall ultra-processed nature of the product means it contains ingredients like maltodextrin and yeast extract, which may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with sensitivities to highly processed food components.
SWANSON FLAVOR BOOST, CONCENTRATED FLAVOR BLEND is not considered a healthy food choice. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high sodium content (6800mg per 100g) and added sugar (14g per 100g). It provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber, making it an empty calorie product.
How does SWANSON FLAVOR BOOST compare to generic dairy products?
Compared to generic dairy products, SWANSON FLAVOR BOOST is nutritionally distinct. While dairy products like milk or yogurt provide protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, this SWANSON product offers none of these. For example, a serving of plain Greek yogurt from a brand like FAGE provides significant protein and calcium, whereas this flavor boost is solely for flavor enhancement with minimal nutritional contribution.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list indicates a flavor derived from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, or vegetable) but processed to create a specific taste. While derived from natural sources, these are often highly concentrated and processed ingredients designed to enhance taste, and their specific composition is not always disclosed.
What is a reasonable portion size for this flavor boost?
The declared serving size is 0.35 ONZ, which is a very small amount. Given its concentrated flavor and high sodium, it's intended to be used in small quantities, typically a teaspoon or less, to flavor a whole dish rather than a single portion. Adhering to small portions is crucial to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Can I use this product if I'm trying to reduce my sugar intake?
While this product is not primarily a sweet food, it does contain 14g of added sugar per 100g. If you are actively trying to reduce your overall sugar intake, it's important to be mindful of this contribution, especially if using it frequently or in larger amounts. Consider alternatives with no added sugar for flavor.