SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
The primary concern is the 29.17g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to empty calories.
With 777.78mg of sodium per 100g, this product is high in sodium.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, containing many industrial ingredients.
Use this sauce sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a significant dietary component.
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
29.17g
58% of Daily Value
Sodium
777.78mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (29.2g)-25
Sodium (777.8mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue 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. The most substantial penalty comes from its high added sugar content, with 29.17g per 100g, resulting in a -25 penalty. This amount is a considerable portion of daily recommended limits. The product also incurs a -15 penalty for 'empty calories,' reflecting its low density of beneficial nutrients like protein and fiber. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, adds a -10 penalty. Ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup and cola syrup contribute to this classification and the high sugar load. The sodium content, at 777.78mg per 100g, also contributes a -3 penalty. While it receives a minor bonus of +2 for Vitamin C (11% DV), this is insufficient to offset the numerous penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically offers protein and calcium, SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce provides negligible amounts of these essential nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's, barbecue sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce can serve as a flavorful condiment to enhance certain meals. Its distinct sweet and smoky profile can make otherwise plain dishes more appealing, potentially encouraging consumption of lean proteins or vegetables that might otherwise be less palatable for some individuals. However, it is important to use it in small quantities to manage the intake of added sugars and sodium.
Source of Vitamin C
This barbecue sauce provides a modest amount of Vitamin C, contributing 11% of the Daily Value per 100g. While not a primary source, this micronutrient plays a role in immune function and collagen synthesis. The presence of tomato paste in the ingredients likely contributes to this vitamin content, offering a minor nutritional benefit within the context of a condiment.
Convenient for Culinary Uses
As a pre-made sauce, SWEET BABY RAY'S offers culinary convenience for quick meal preparation. It can be used directly from the bottle, saving time in the kitchen compared to making a barbecue sauce from scratch. This convenience can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking, allowing for quick meal assembly.
SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or baked meats like chicken, ribs, or pulled pork. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, but it's easy to exceed this portion when coating foods.
Use SWEET BABY RAY'S as a finishing sauce rather than a marinade to control the amount consumed.
Dilute the sauce with vinegar or unsweetened tomato paste to reduce sugar and sodium per serving.
Pair with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Measure out your serving (2 Tbsp) to be mindful of added sugar and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high levels of high fructose corn syrup and other added sugars in SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce, which can contribute to excessive caloric intake and may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels. The product also contains sodium benzoate as a preservative, which some individuals may prefer to limit. The presence of caffeine from the cola syrup, while likely in small amounts, could be a consideration for young children or those sensitive to stimulants. There are no major allergens declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities to any listed ingredients should review the full list carefully.
SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 0/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food choice. Its nutritional profile is dominated by high added sugar (29.17g per 100g) and sodium (777.78mg per 100g), with minimal beneficial nutrients like protein or fiber. It is classified as an ultra-processed food.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to many generic barbecue sauces, SWEET BABY RAY'S often has a similarly high sugar and sodium content. For instance, some brands like Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce also feature high fructose corn syrup and significant added sugars. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options may need to seek out specialty brands or make their own sauce from scratch.
What is 'high fructose corn syrup' and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener derived from corn starch, and it is a primary ingredient in SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce. It is used for its sweetness, texture, and cost-effectiveness. Nutritionally, it contributes to the added sugar content of the product, which is a significant 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 is 2 tablespoons. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of 29.17g of added sugar and 777.78mg of sodium per 100g. Using it sparingly as a flavor accent rather than a primary component of your meal is advisable.
Can SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce be part of a balanced diet?
While SWEET BABY RAY'S Barbecue Sauce is not a nutrient-dense food, it can be included in a balanced diet in very limited quantities. Due to its high added sugar and sodium, it should be considered an occasional condiment. Focus on pairing it with otherwise nutrient-rich meals featuring lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables.