TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This TRADER JOE'S product scores 29/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
The primary nutritional concern is the 12.31g of added sugar per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic dairy products, this sauce offers minimal micronutrients.
Use sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a significant dietary component.
Scores -4 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
5.88g
21% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
12.31g
25% of Daily Value
Sodium
735.29mg
32% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.9g)+7
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (12.3g)-15
Sodium (735.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 29
TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce earns a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its high levels of added sugar and sodium, alongside its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 12.31g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -15 points. Additionally, the sodium content of 735.29mg per 100g contributes a -3 point penalty. The presence of multiple processed ingredients and flavorings, such as natural grill flavor and caramel color, leads to its NOVA 4 classification, resulting in a -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed. While it does provide 5.88g of fiber per 100g, earning a +7 point bonus, this is not enough to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically offers protein, calcium, and vitamin D, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce provides negligible amounts of these essential nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's, steak sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Meals
While not a source of significant nutrients, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce can be used in small quantities to enhance the flavor of lean proteins or vegetables. Its complex taste profile, derived from ingredients like onion puree, horseradish, and various spices, can make less palatable healthy foods more appealing. This can be a strategy to encourage consumption of nutrient-dense foods that might otherwise be overlooked, provided the sauce is used judiciously.
Source of Fiber
This steak sauce provides 5.88g of fiber per 100g, which contributes positively to its FoodScore. Fiber is important for digestive health and satiety. Although a typical serving size is small (1 Tbsp), incorporating even small amounts of fiber from various sources throughout the day can help meet daily recommendations. The fiber content likely comes from the tomato puree and onion puree, which are among the primary ingredients.
Convenient Culinary Ingredient
For those seeking a quick way to add a specific flavor profile to dishes, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce offers culinary convenience. It can be used as a marinade, a glaze, or a finishing sauce, saving time in meal preparation. This convenience can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules who are looking for ways to make home-cooked meals more accessible, as long as the overall nutritional impact is considered.
TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce is typically used as a condiment for grilled or pan-fried meats, or as an ingredient in marinades and glazes. A common portion is 1 tablespoon, which is a small amount, but its concentrated flavor means a little goes a long way. Be mindful of its contribution to your daily intake of added sugars and sodium.
Use this sauce as a flavorful marinade for lean cuts of beef or chicken, but remember to blot off excess before cooking to reduce sodium intake.
Combine a small amount with plain Greek yogurt or olive oil to create a lower-sodium dressing for salads or roasted vegetables.
Measure your portion using a tablespoon to help control intake of added sugar and sodium.
Consider diluting with a splash of vinegar or water when using as a dipping sauce to reduce intensity and overall consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary restrictions should note several ingredients in TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce. It contains soybeans and wheat from the soy sauce, making it unsuitable for those with soy or wheat allergies or celiac disease. The presence of anchovy paste means it is not vegetarian or vegan-friendly. The high sodium content (735.29mg per 100g) should be a consideration for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on a low-sodium diet. Additionally, the caramel color is an additive that some consumers prefer to avoid.
TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce receives a FoodScore of 29/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its primary drawbacks are the high levels of added sugar (12.31g per 100g) and sodium (735.29mg per 100g), along with its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber, it lacks significant amounts of other essential micronutrients.
How does TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce compare to other steak sauces?
Compared to many other branded steak sauces, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce has a similar nutritional profile, often featuring comparable levels of added sugar and sodium. For instance, A.1. Original Steak Sauce also contains significant added sugars and sodium. Consumers should always check the nutrition label of specific products, as formulations can vary, but most steak sauces are best used in moderation due to their condiment nature.
What is 'natural grill flavor' in this sauce?
'Natural grill flavor' is a food additive used to impart a smoky, grilled taste to products. While derived from natural sources, it is a highly processed ingredient. Its inclusion contributes to the product's NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food, meaning it has undergone extensive industrial processing.
How much TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce can I have in a day?
Given its high added sugar and sodium content, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce is best consumed in small, infrequent portions. A typical serving size is 1 tablespoon. Limiting your intake to one serving occasionally, and being mindful of other sources of added sugar and sodium in your diet, would be a reasonable approach.
Does this steak sauce contain allergens?
Yes, TRADER JOE'S Steak Sauce contains wheat and soybeans due to the inclusion of soy sauce. It also contains anchovy paste, making it unsuitable for those with fish allergies or those following vegetarian or vegan diets. Always check the ingredient list carefully if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.