SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar, primarily from high fructose corn syrup, and its ultra-processed nature.
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it should be avoided.
This product contains 30.27g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this sauce offers minimal protein and fiber.
Use in very small portions to manage intake of added sugars 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
30.27g
61% of Daily Value
Sodium
756.76mg
33% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30.3g)-25
Sodium (756.8mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 30.27g of added sugar, which contributes significantly to its empty calorie count and incurs a substantial penalty in the scoring system. The ingredient list begins with high fructose corn syrup, indicating it is the most abundant ingredient by weight, followed by maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, corn syrup, sugar, and molasses, all of which are forms of added sugar. The sodium content is also notable at 756.76mg per 100g, contributing to a penalty. While the product does offer a small bonus for Vitamin A (30% DV), this is outweighed by the penalties. The NOVA 4 classification further reduces the score, reflecting its highly processed nature compared to less processed alternatives. Overall, SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE provides minimal beneficial nutrients while being high in components that should be limited in the diet.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's barbecue sauce, maple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Vitamin A
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE contributes 30% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports various bodily functions, including vision, immune function, and cell growth. While this sauce is not a primary source of vitamins, it can contribute a small amount of this nutrient to the diet, which is often found in tomato-based products. This can be a minor benefit for individuals looking to increase their intake of this specific vitamin.
Flavor Enhancement for Meals
This barbecue sauce can serve as a flavor enhancer for various dishes, adding a sweet and savory maple profile. For individuals seeking to add a specific taste to grilled meats, vegetables, or sandwiches, SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE offers a distinct flavor. Using small amounts can help to improve the palatability of meals, potentially encouraging consumption of other nutrient-dense foods it is paired with. This product is designed to provide a specific taste experience rather than significant nutritional value.
Convenient Ready-to-Use Condiment
As a pre-made condiment, SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE offers convenience for meal preparation. It requires no additional cooking or mixing, making it a quick option for adding flavor to dishes. This can be particularly useful for individuals with limited time for cooking or those looking for an easy way to enhance the taste of their food. Its ready-to-use format simplifies meal assembly and can be a practical choice for busy households.
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its high content of added sugar, primarily from high fructose corn syrup, and its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is typically used as a condiment or marinade for grilled or baked meats, such as chicken, ribs, or pork. It can also be added to sandwiches, wraps, or used as a dipping sauce. The standard serving size is 2 tablespoons, but due to its high added sugar and sodium content, smaller portions are advisable.
Use SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE sparingly as a flavor accent rather than a primary sauce to manage added sugar and sodium intake.
Pair with lean proteins like grilled chicken breast or fish, and plenty of non-starchy vegetables, to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Consider diluting the sauce with a low-sodium broth or vinegar to reduce the intensity of flavor and overall sugar per serving, or make your own lower-sugar barbecue sauce at home.
Measure your portion (e.g., 1 tablespoon) to avoid overconsumption, as the serving size can be easily exceeded when pouring freely.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars should be aware that SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE lists high fructose corn syrup as its first ingredient, indicating it is present in the largest quantity. This product also contains multiple other forms of sugar, contributing to a high overall added sugar content. Those with diabetes or individuals aiming to reduce sugar in their diet should use this sauce in very small quantities or seek lower-sugar alternatives. The sodium content is also elevated, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure. The preservative sodium benzoate is included, which is generally recognized as safe but some individuals may prefer to limit its intake. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should review the full ingredient list.
Is SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE healthy?
SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugars, with 30.27g per 100g, and is classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers a small amount of Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed sparingly.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to many other barbecue sauces on the market, SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE often has a similar profile of high added sugar and sodium. For instance, brands like KC Masterpiece Original Barbecue Sauce also feature high fructose corn syrup as a primary ingredient. Consumers looking for lower-sugar or lower-sodium options would need to specifically seek out those varieties, as this product does not fall into those categories.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener made from corn starch. It is used in SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE as a primary ingredient to provide sweetness and texture, and it is often a more cost-effective sweetener for manufacturers. Nutritionally, it contributes to the product's high added sugar content, which is a factor in its low FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for this barbecue sauce?
The declared serving size for SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is 2 tablespoons. However, given its high added sugar and sodium content, a more reasonable portion for regular use might be 1 tablespoon or less. This helps to minimize the intake of these components while still allowing for flavor enhancement.
Can I use this sauce if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, SWEET BABY RAY'S BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is not an ideal choice due to its high added sugar content (30.27g per 100g). While you could use a very small amount for flavor, it would be more beneficial to opt for barbecue sauces specifically marketed as 'sugar-free' or 'low-sugar' to align with your dietary goals.