TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This TABASCO sauce scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
The primary nutritional concern is 42g of added sugar per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic dairy, this product provides no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
Use in very small quantities 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
42g
84% of Daily Value
Sodium
1600mg
70% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (42g)-25
Sodium (1600mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE scores 0 out of 100, reflecting its nutritional profile which is largely devoid of beneficial nutrients while being high in components that warrant moderation. The most significant factor contributing to this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 42g per 100g. This alone incurs a significant penalty. The ingredient list begins with high fructose corn syrup and red pepper sugar, indicating that sugars are primary components. Additionally, the product contains 1600mg of sodium per 100g, which is a high amount and also contributes to penalties. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, further reducing its score. It provides 0g of protein, fiber, total fat, and essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron, leading to additional penalties for empty calories. In contrast, a generic dairy equivalent would typically offer protein, calcium, and other vitamins, highlighting the significant nutritional difference.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in tabasco sweet & spicy pepper sauce, sweet & spicy pepper actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement in Small Portions
While not a source of significant nutrients, TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE can be used in very small quantities to add flavor to dishes. Its concentrated sweet and spicy profile means that only a tiny amount, such as a single teaspoon, is needed to impart taste. This allows consumers to enjoy its unique flavor without contributing substantially to their daily intake of added sugars or sodium, provided portion control is strictly maintained. It can make otherwise bland foods more palatable.
Calorie-Efficient Flavor
For individuals seeking to add flavor without adding fat, this sauce contains 0g of total fat per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for those monitoring their fat intake, as long as the added sugar and sodium content are considered within the overall dietary context. A small serving provides flavor with minimal caloric impact from fat, which can be useful in specific culinary applications where fat reduction is a goal.
Versatile Culinary Use
This sweet and spicy sauce offers versatility in the kitchen, allowing it to be incorporated into various recipes. It can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or an ingredient in stir-fries, providing a distinct flavor profile. Its specific combination of sweetness and heat can complement a range of foods, from meats to vegetables, offering a way to diversify meal flavors without relying on high-fat or high-calorie additions, assuming careful portioning.
TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE is typically used as a condiment or an ingredient to add a sweet and spicy kick to meals. Common uses include marinades for chicken, dipping sauces for appetizers, or as a flavor enhancer in stir-fries. Given its concentrated flavor and high sugar/sodium content, it's best used sparingly.
Use this sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to manage added sugar and sodium intake.
Combine a small amount of TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE with plain Greek yogurt or a vinegar-based dressing to create a lower-sugar, lower-sodium dip.
When marinating, dilute the sauce with water, vinegar, or citrus juice to reduce the overall concentration of added sugar and sodium per serving.
Pair this sauce with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high added sugar content, primarily from high fructose corn syrup and red pepper sugar, which can contribute significantly to daily sugar limits if consumed in large quantities. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should exercise caution and consider the impact of these sugars on their diet. The product also contains a notable amount of sodium (1600mg per 100g), which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on sodium-restricted diets. The ingredient xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickener and is generally recognized as safe, though some individuals with digestive sensitivities might experience mild discomfort with large intakes. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label that would typically pose a widespread risk beyond individual sensitivities to the listed ingredients.
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE is not considered a healthy food choice. It is high in added sugars and sodium, and provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. Its classification as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) also indicates a lack of whole food components.
How does TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE compare to other condiments?
Compared to a generic hot sauce like Frank's RedHot Original, which typically has very low calories, no added sugar, and moderate sodium, TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE contains significantly more added sugar (42g per 100g) and calories (300 per 100g). It's more akin to a sweet chili sauce in its nutritional profile, which are generally higher in sugar than traditional hot sauces.
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. It is used in TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE to provide sweetness and contribute to the sauce's texture and preservation. From a nutritional perspective, it is a source of added sugar, which the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting to less than 10% of daily calories.
What is a typical serving size for this sauce, and how much added sugar does it contain per serving?
A typical serving size for TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE is 1 teaspoon. While the nutritional values are provided per 100g, a 1-teaspoon serving would contain approximately 2.1g of added sugar and 80mg of sodium. This is a relatively small amount, but consistent use can add up.
Can this sauce be used by someone on a low-sodium diet?
Individuals on a low-sodium diet should use TABASCO SWEET & SPICY PEPPER SAUCE with caution. At 1600mg of sodium per 100g, it is a high-sodium product. Even a small serving of 1 teaspoon contains 80mg of sodium, which can quickly contribute to daily sodium limits, especially if used frequently or in larger amounts.