TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY scores 17/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **significant sodium levels**, alongside its classification as a processed food.
This TABASCO product scores 17/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 8.27g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty.
With 823.53mg of sodium per 100g, it is considerably higher than generic ketchup.
Classified as NOVA 3, it is a processed food with minimal beneficial nutrients.
Use in very small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -16 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
8.27g
17% of Daily Value
Sodium
823.53mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.3g)-9
Sodium (823.5mg)-4
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 17
TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY receives a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant amounts of added sugar and sodium, and a lack of beneficial macronutrients and micronutrients. Per 100g, the product contains 8.27g of added sugar, contributing a -9 penalty to its score. The presence of corn syrup as a primary sweetener is a key factor here. Additionally, it has 823.53mg of sodium per 100g, resulting in a -4 penalty. The product offers 0g of protein, fiber, and total fat, and negligible amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, leading to a -15 penalty for empty calories. Its classification as a NOVA class 3 processed food further deducts 5 points. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides protein and calcium, this ketchup offers very little in terms of nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in tabasco spicy ketchup, spicy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Flavorful Condiment for Specific Dishes
While not a source of significant nutritional benefits, TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP can enhance the flavor of certain meals. Its spicy profile, derived from TABASCO Brand Pepper Sauce, can add a distinct kick to dishes like eggs, burgers, or fries. For those looking to add a specific taste without adding fat or protein, this product serves as a flavoring agent rather than a nutrient source. It can make otherwise bland foods more palatable, potentially encouraging consumption of other more nutritious components of a meal.
Low in Fat and Cholesterol
This product is naturally free of fat and cholesterol, which can be a consideration for individuals monitoring their intake of these nutrients. With 0g of total fat and 0g of saturated fat per 100g, it does not contribute to dietary fat intake. This makes it a suitable condiment choice for those following low-fat dietary patterns, provided that the intake of added sugar and sodium is carefully managed. Its formulation avoids common fat sources found in other condiments.
Convenient and Readily Available
As a widely available condiment, TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP offers convenience for meal preparation. It requires no special preparation and can be used directly from the bottle, making it a quick addition to various meals. For individuals with limited time for cooking or meal prep, having a readily accessible flavor enhancer can be beneficial. Its long shelf life also contributes to its practicality in a household pantry.
TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY scores 17/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and significant sodium levels, alongside its classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP is typically used as a condiment, added to foods like sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, fries, or eggs. It's often consumed in small portions, usually 1 tablespoon or less per serving, to add a spicy, tangy flavor to meals. Its primary role is to enhance taste.
To manage added sugar and sodium intake, use TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP sparingly, perhaps as a dip for vegetables or a small dollop on a lean protein.
Consider diluting it with a no-sugar-added tomato paste or a low-sodium tomato sauce to reduce the overall sugar and salt concentration per serving.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like roasted vegetables or whole-grain dishes to balance the meal's nutritional profile and help mitigate the impact of the added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains corn syrup and salt as key ingredients, which contribute to its high added sugar and sodium content. Individuals monitoring their blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should be mindful of the added sugar. Similarly, those with hypertension or individuals advised to limit sodium intake should consume this product in very small quantities due to its 823.53mg of sodium per 100g. The ingredient list also includes natural flavor, which is a broad term and may contain various components, though generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but consumers with severe sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list carefully.
Based on its FoodScore of 17/100, TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (8.27g per 100g) and sodium (823.53mg per 100g) and lacks significant amounts of beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is best used in moderation as a flavor enhancer.
How does TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY compare to other ketchups?
Compared to a generic ketchup, TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY has a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable levels of added sugar and sodium. For example, a brand like Heinz Tomato Ketchup also contains significant added sugar and sodium. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options would need to seek out specific varieties marketed as such, as this TABASCO product does not offer a reduced-sugar or reduced-sodium benefit.
What is 'corn syrup' in this product?
Corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch. In TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY, it contributes to the product's 8.27g of added sugar per 100g. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods and beverages, providing sweetness and texture. For those monitoring sugar intake, it's important to be aware of its presence.
What is a typical portion size for this ketchup?
A typical serving size for TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY is 1 tablespoon. Given its high sodium and added sugar content, it's advisable to stick to this portion size or even less. Using it as a flavor accent rather than a primary sauce can help manage intake of these components. Consistent overconsumption of larger portions could contribute significantly to daily limits for added sugar and sodium.
Can I use this ketchup if I am on a low-sodium diet?
Due to its high sodium content of 823.53mg per 100g, TABASCO SPICY KETCHUP, SPICY is not recommended for individuals on a low-sodium diet. Even a small serving can contribute a notable amount of sodium to your daily intake. It would be more appropriate to choose a specially formulated low-sodium ketchup or to use alternative seasonings that are naturally low in sodium.