SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 0/100.
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
A 100g serving contains 37.8g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It provides 0g of protein, fiber, and total fat per 100g.
Use sparingly as a condiment 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
37.8g
76% of Daily Value
Sodium
783.78mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (37.8g)-25
Sodium (783.8mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 primarily due to its significant added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this sauce contains 37.8g of added sugar, which is a major detractor according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines. The ingredient list begins with high fructose corn syrup, followed by tomato paste, and then more sweeteners like maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, corn syrup, and sugar, indicating a high concentration of caloric sweeteners. The product is also penalized for being a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed and typically contains ingredients not found in home kitchens. Additionally, it provides 783.78mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty. There are no beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, or essential vitamins and minerals present in meaningful amounts to offset these penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically offer protein and calcium, this barbecue sauce offers none of these nutritional benefits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's maple barbecue sauce, maple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
While not a source of essential nutrients, SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE can enhance the palatability of certain dishes. Its sweet and smoky profile can make lean proteins, such as grilled chicken or pork, more appealing for individuals who might otherwise find them bland. This can be a useful tool for encouraging consumption of otherwise healthy, but less flavorful, foods in small amounts.
Convenient Condiment Option
This barbecue sauce offers convenience as a ready-to-use condiment, saving preparation time for meals. For individuals with busy lifestyles, having a pre-made sauce can simplify meal assembly, allowing for quicker preparation of home-cooked meals. It can be a practical choice when time is limited, provided that portion sizes are carefully controlled to manage intake of less desirable ingredients.
Versatile Culinary Application
SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is versatile in its culinary applications, extending beyond traditional barbecue. It can be used as a glaze, a dipping sauce, or an ingredient in marinades for various meats and vegetables. This versatility allows for creative meal planning, enabling consumers to incorporate different flavors into their cooking, albeit with an awareness of the nutritional profile.
SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Barbecue sauce is commonly used as a condiment, marinade, or glaze for grilled or baked meats, particularly chicken, pork, and ribs. A typical serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add to the overall sugar and sodium content of a meal if not used mindfully. It's often applied during cooking or as a finishing sauce.
Use SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to minimize added sugar and sodium intake.
Pair this sauce with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to create a more balanced meal, ensuring the majority of your plate is nutrient-dense.
Consider diluting the sauce with a low-sodium broth or vinegar to reduce its intensity and overall contribution of added sugars and sodium per serving.
Measure your portion of 2 tablespoons carefully to avoid overconsumption, as the added sugar and sodium accumulate quickly.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high fructose corn syrup listed as the first ingredient, indicating a substantial amount of added sugar. The product also contains sodium benzoate, a common preservative. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should use this product with extreme moderation due to its 37.8g of added sugar per 100g. Those on sodium-restricted diets should also be cautious, given the 783.78mg of sodium per 100g. There are no major allergens declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities to ingredients like pineapple juice concentrate or mustard flour should review the full ingredient list.
Is SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE healthy?
SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is not considered a healthy food choice by FoodScore, receiving a 0/100. This is primarily due to its high content of added sugars (37.8g per 100g) and sodium (783.78mg per 100g). It also lacks beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to many other barbecue sauces on the market, SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is similar in its high added sugar and sodium content. For instance, brands like KC Masterpiece Original Barbecue Sauce also feature high fructose corn syrup and significant added sugars. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options would need to seek out specific 'sugar-free' or 'low sodium' varieties from various brands.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener derived from corn starch, commonly used in many processed foods and beverages. It is included in SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE as a primary sweetener to provide its characteristic sweet flavor and contribute to its texture and shelf stability. Its presence as the first ingredient indicates it is the most abundant ingredient by weight.
How much SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE can I have in a day?
Given its high added sugar and sodium content, it is advisable to consume SWEET BABY RAY'S MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE in very limited quantities. A standard serving size is 2 tablespoons. Using it sparingly, perhaps once or twice a week as a small condiment, would be a reasonable approach to minimize its impact on your overall dietary intake of added sugars and sodium.
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 MAPLE BARBECUE SAUCE, MAPLE is not an ideal choice due to its high added sugar content. A single 2-tablespoon serving contains a substantial amount of added sugars. You might consider looking for barbecue sauces specifically labeled 'sugar-free' or 'no sugar added' to better align with your dietary goals.