FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidpreparedTABASCO· 1 tsp

TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE

TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and sodium, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.

  • This product scores 0/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore due to its nutritional profile.
  • It contains 14g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 3400mg of sodium per 100g, it exceeds daily recommended limits for most individuals.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this sauce is an ultra-processed food, unlike a home-cooked alternative.
  • Use in very small portions to minimize intake of added sugar and sodium.
  • Scores -46 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
14g
28% of Daily Value
Sodium
3400mg
148% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (14g)-18
Sodium (3400mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 0

TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, indicating it is an ultra-processed product with a nutrient profile that does not align with dietary guidelines. The primary factors contributing to this low score are its significant amounts of added sugar and sodium. Per 100g, this sauce contains 14g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of 18 points. Additionally, the sodium content is exceptionally high at 3400mg per 100g, leading to a 12-point penalty. The presence of ingredients like sugar and xanthan gum, along with its overall formulation, classifies it as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, which results in a 10-point penalty. Furthermore, the product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients, contributing to 15 points in 'empty calories' penalties. In contrast, a home-cooked sriracha made with whole ingredients would typically contain less added sugar and sodium, and retain more natural nutrients from the peppers and garlic, offering a more favorable nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in tabasco sriracha thai chili sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Flavor Enhancement for Specific Diets

For individuals following very strict low-fat or low-calorie diets, this sauce can provide flavor without adding fat or significant calories from other macronutrients. Since it contains 0g of total fat and 0g of protein per 100g, it can be used in minimal amounts to season dishes. This allows for a strong flavor impact without altering the macronutrient balance of a meal, which can be beneficial for those carefully tracking their intake.

Culinary Versatility in Small Portions

TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE offers a distinctive spicy and sweet flavor profile that can enhance a variety of dishes. When used in very small quantities, such as a single teaspoon serving, its impact on overall nutrient intake is minimal. This allows consumers to add a specific taste dimension to meals like stir-fries, marinades, or dipping sauces without significantly contributing to the daily intake of added sugar or sodium, provided portion sizes are strictly controlled.

Convenience for Quick Meal Preparation

As a prepared sauce, this product offers convenience for quick meal assembly. It eliminates the need to prepare a complex spice blend or sauce from scratch, saving time in the kitchen. For consumers with limited time for cooking, having a ready-to-use flavor enhancer can facilitate the preparation of home-cooked meals, potentially reducing reliance on other less nutritious convenience foods, as long as its use is balanced with other whole ingredients.

How to eat it

TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE is typically used as a condiment or an ingredient in marinades and sauces. A common portion is a small drizzle or a teaspoon, added to dishes for a spicy and sweet flavor kick. It's often paired with Asian-inspired cuisine, eggs, or sandwiches. The main pitfall is over-serving, which can quickly add significant amounts of sodium and sugar.

Use this sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient; a small dash can go a long way in adding zest.
Combine with plain yogurt or avocado to create a creamier, less concentrated dip that dilutes the sodium and sugar.
Measure your portion, aiming for no more than 1 teaspoon per serving to control added sugar and sodium intake.
Consider mixing with fresh lime juice and a pinch of fresh garlic for a brightened flavor profile that reduces reliance on the sauce's inherent sweetness and saltiness.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (3400mg per 100g) and added sugar (14g per 100g) in TABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE. Individuals managing blood pressure or blood sugar levels, such as those with hypertension or diabetes, should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes xanthan gum, a common food additive used as a thickener, which is generally recognized as safe but can cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities. There are no declared major allergens on the label, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities.

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Reader questions
Is TABASCO Sriracha Thai Chili Sauce healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, TABASCO Sriracha Thai Chili Sauce is not considered a healthy food choice. It is an ultra-processed product high in added sugar and sodium, and it provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. It should be consumed in very small, infrequent portions.
How does TABASCO Sriracha Thai Chili Sauce compare to other sriracha brands?
Compared to other sriracha brands like Huy Fong Foods Sriracha, TABASCO Sriracha Thai Chili Sauce shares similar concerns regarding high sodium and added sugar content. While specific nutrient values may vary slightly between brands, most prepared sriracha sauces are ultra-processed condiments and should be used in moderation due to their nutritional profile.
What is 'xanthan gum' in the ingredient list?
Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods, including sauces. It helps give the sauce its desired texture and prevents ingredients from separating. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild digestive upset if consumed in very large amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sauce?
A reasonable portion size for TABASCO Sriracha Thai Chili Sauce is 1 teaspoon. This amount helps to limit the intake of added sugar and sodium while still providing flavor. Consuming larger portions frequently would significantly contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits for these nutrients.
Can this sauce be used in a low-sodium diet?
No, this sauce is not suitable for a low-sodium diet. With 3400mg of sodium per 100g, even a small 1-teaspoon serving (which is about 5g) would contribute approximately 170mg of sodium. This is a significant amount for individuals trying to reduce their sodium intake.

Explore more

CategoryAll prepared foods BrandAll TABASCO SKUs Competitor · 85/100POLAR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE Competitor · 84/100365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET ORGANIC RED LENTILS Head-to-headTABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE vs. POLAR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE Head-to-headTABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE vs. 365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET ORGANIC RED LENTILS Head-to-headTABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SOYBEAN OIL Head-to-headTABASCO SRIRACHA THAI CHILI SAUCE vs. GREAT VALUE GARBANZOS CHICK PEAS

Data & references