SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE, SWEET RED CHILI
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its very high added sugar content, which is the primary driver of its low nutritional score.
This product scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 60g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 1266.67mg of sodium per 100g, this product is very high in sodium.
SWEET BABY RAY'S is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Use this sauce sparingly to manage intake of added sugar 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
60g
120% of Daily Value
Sodium
1266.67mg
55% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (60g)-25
Sodium (1266.7mg)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, primarily due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and sodium. Per 100g, this product contains 60g of added sugar, which is a significant amount and incurs a substantial penalty in the scoring system. The ingredient list highlights high fructose corn syrup and sugar as primary components, indicating the source of this high sugar content. Additionally, the product contains 1266.67mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to further penalties. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional penalty. The absence of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron means it offers no nutritional bonuses. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein and calcium, this sauce offers minimal nutritional value and is primarily a source of empty calories.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's sweet red chili sauce & marinade, sweet red chili 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 SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE can be used in small quantities to add a specific sweet and spicy flavor profile to certain dishes. This can make otherwise plain foods more palatable, potentially encouraging consumption of lean proteins or vegetables when used as a condiment. Its distinct taste, derived from ingredients like aged cayenne red pepper and sriracha chili sauce, is its primary utility.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This sauce offers convenience for quick meal preparation, acting as a ready-to-use marinade or dipping sauce. For individuals with limited time for cooking from scratch, it provides a simple way to impart flavor without needing to combine multiple spices and ingredients. This can be a practical solution for busy households, allowing for faster assembly of meals.
Versatile Culinary Application
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE has versatile culinary applications beyond just a dipping sauce. It can be incorporated into stir-fries, glazes for grilled meats, or as an ingredient in homemade dressings to add a sweet chili kick. This versatility means a single product can serve multiple purposes in the kitchen, simplifying pantry stock.
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE scores 0/100 (Avoid) due to its very high added sugar content, which is the primary driver of its low nutritional score.
How to eat it
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE is typically used as a dipping sauce for appetizers like spring rolls or chicken nuggets, or as a marinade for poultry and seafood. A common serving size is 1 tablespoon, but it's easy to exceed this, leading to higher intake of added sugar and sodium.
Use this sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to control portion sizes and reduce overall sugar and sodium intake.
Dilute the sauce with water, vinegar, or a low-sodium broth to reduce its intensity and overall sugar/sodium content per serving.
Pair this sauce with plain, unsalted proteins or vegetables to balance the high sodium and sugar content of the sauce itself.
Consider making your own sweet chili sauce at home using fresh ingredients to control the amount of added sugar and sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains high fructose corn syrup and sugar as primary ingredients, leading to a very high added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small quantities. The high sodium content (1266.67mg per 100g) is also a concern for those monitoring blood pressure. Allergens present include wheat and soybeans due to the soy sauce ingredient, which is important for individuals with these sensitivities. The presence of preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate is typical for shelf-stable sauces.
Is SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE healthy?
SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice. It is very high in added sugars (60g per 100g) and sodium (1266.67mg per 100g), and contains no beneficial fiber, protein, or significant micronutrients. It is classified as an ultra-processed food.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S compare to other chili sauces?
Compared to a generic sweet chili sauce, SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE has a similar profile of high added sugar and sodium. Many branded sweet chili sauces, like those from Huy Fong Foods (Sriracha), also feature significant sugar and sodium. Always check the nutrition label, as some brands may offer lower-sugar or lower-sodium alternatives.
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 SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE, it is a primary ingredient, contributing significantly to the product's high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
The declared serving size is 1 tablespoon. Given the high added sugar and sodium content, it is advisable to adhere strictly to this small portion size or even use less. Frequent or large consumption can quickly lead to an excessive intake of these components, which can impact daily dietary goals.
Can this sauce be used by someone with a gluten sensitivity?
No, SWEET BABY RAY'S SWEET RED CHILI SAUCE & MARINADE is not suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The ingredient list explicitly states 'soy sauce (water, wheat, soybeans, salt),' indicating the presence of wheat, which contains gluten. Always check ingredient lists carefully for allergens.