SWEET BABY RAY'S, HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE
SWEET BABY RAY'S, HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugars.
This product scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
It contains 30.27g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
With 783.78mg of sodium per 100g, it contributes notably to daily sodium intake.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food.
Use sparingly 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
783.78mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30.3g)-25
Sodium (783.8mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEET BABY RAY'S, HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE earns a FoodScore of 0/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, totaling 30.27g per 100g. This contributes to a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with high fructose corn syrup, followed by brown sugar, corn syrup, and sugar, indicating multiple sources of added sweeteners. Additionally, the product contains 783.78mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in a -3 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring a further -10 point penalty. The absence of protein, fiber, and healthy fats also contributes to an 'empty calories' penalty of -15 points. While it does provide a small amount of Vitamin C (11% DV), earning a minor +2 bonus, this is insufficient to offset the numerous nutritional drawbacks. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically offers protein and essential micronutrients, SWEET BABY RAY'S provides very little in terms of beneficial nutrition.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's, hickory & brown sugar barbecue sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Vitamin C
This barbecue sauce contains 11% Daily Value of Vitamin C per 100g. While not a primary source, Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant. Including foods with Vitamin C can contribute to overall dietary intake, though it's important to consider the context of other ingredients present in the product. For optimal health, it is recommended to obtain Vitamin C from a variety of whole foods.
Flavor Enhancement for Specific Dishes
SWEET BABY RAY'S barbecue sauce can serve as a flavor enhancer for certain meals, particularly grilled meats or plant-based alternatives. Its distinct hickory and brown sugar profile can make dishes more palatable, potentially encouraging consumption of protein sources that might otherwise be less appealing. However, due to its nutritional profile, it is best used in small quantities to add a specific taste dimension rather than as a staple ingredient.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
This product offers convenience in meal preparation, allowing for quick flavor additions without extensive cooking. For individuals with limited time, a pre-made sauce can simplify the process of preparing a meal. While convenient, it's important to balance this convenience with an awareness of the nutritional content, especially regarding added sugars and sodium, to maintain a balanced diet.
SWEET BABY RAY'S, HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugars.
How to eat it
Barbecue sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or baked meats, poultry, and plant-based alternatives. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which can quickly add flavor but also significant amounts of added sugar and sodium to a meal. It's often consumed with larger portions of food.
Use SWEET BABY RAY'S barbecue sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary sauce, applying it sparingly to dishes.
Consider diluting the sauce with water or vinegar to reduce the concentration of added sugars and sodium per serving.
Pair with lean protein sources and a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Measure your serving size carefully to avoid overconsumption of added sugars and sodium.
Explore homemade barbecue sauce recipes using less added sugar and sodium, or opt for commercial brands with lower sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high content of high fructose corn syrup and other added sugars in this product, which can contribute to excessive caloric intake without providing substantial nutrients. The sodium level is also notable, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should use this sauce sparingly. The presence of sodium benzoate as a preservative is generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may prefer to limit consumption of foods containing artificial preservatives. This product is generally safe for most populations when consumed in moderation, but its ultra-processed nature means it should not be a frequent component of a healthy diet.
Is SWEET BABY RAY'S HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE healthy?
SWEET BABY RAY'S HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice. It is an ultra-processed food with a high amount of added sugars (30.27g per 100g) and significant sodium (783.78mg per 100g), offering minimal beneficial nutrients. While it contains some Vitamin C, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed infrequently and in small portions.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to many other barbecue sauces on the market, SWEET BABY RAY'S HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE often has a similar or higher sugar content. For instance, some brands like Stubb's Original Bar-B-Q Sauce may offer slightly less added sugar per serving. Consumers looking for healthier options should compare nutrition labels for lower added sugar and sodium levels.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch that is commonly used in many processed foods and beverages. It provides sweetness and helps with texture and preservation. In SWEET BABY RAY'S barbecue sauce, it is listed as the first ingredient, indicating it is the most abundant ingredient by weight and a primary contributor to the product's high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this barbecue sauce?
A reasonable portion size for SWEET BABY RAY'S HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE is typically 2 tablespoons. However, given its high added sugar and sodium content, even this amount contributes significantly to daily intake. For better nutritional balance, consider using half of the recommended serving size or less, especially if consuming other high-sodium or high-sugar foods in the same meal.
Can this sauce be used by individuals with diabetes?
Individuals with diabetes should exercise caution with SWEET BABY RAY'S HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BARBECUE SAUCE due to its very high added sugar content. Each 100g contains over 30g of added sugar, which can significantly impact blood glucose levels. It is advisable to choose barbecue sauces specifically formulated as 'sugar-free' or 'no sugar added' and to monitor portion sizes carefully to manage carbohydrate intake.