FoodScore
0/ 100
Goodcondiment· 100 g

Vinaigrette Balsamic

Balsamic vinaigrette earns a 'Good' FoodScore of 60/100, primarily due to its status as a minimally processed condiment with no added sugar or unhealthy fats.

  • This balsamic vinaigrette is minimally processed, classified as NOVA 1.
  • It contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of total fat per 100g serving.
  • With only 23mg of sodium per 100g, it is a low-sodium condiment option.
  • It provides minor amounts of essential minerals like 4% DV for iron and 2% DV for potassium.
  • Scores +1 points above the condiment category average (59/100 across 17 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.49g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
23mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Whole food (NOVA 1)+10
−
What holds it back

Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.

Why it scores 60

Balsamic vinaigrette achieves a 'Good' FoodScore of 60 out of 100, primarily because it is a minimally processed food (NOVA 1). This classification contributes a significant +10 bonus to its overall score, reflecting its whole food nature and lack of extensive industrial processing. A key positive factor is its nutrient profile, which shows 0g of total fat, 0g of saturated fat, and 0g of added sugar per 100g serving. These characteristics align well with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting intake of these components. The sodium content is also very low at 23mg per 100g, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, the vinaigrette does not contribute significantly to daily targets for protein (0.49g), fiber (0g), or most micronutrients, with only minor amounts of potassium (112mg, 2% DV), calcium (27mg, 2% DV), and iron (0.72mg, 4% DV). To achieve a higher score, it would need to offer more substantial amounts of beneficial macronutrients like fiber or protein, or a wider array of essential vitamins and minerals.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in vinaigrette balsamic actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Heart Health

Balsamic vinaigrette can support heart health due to its favorable fat and sodium profile. This particular product contains 0g of total fat, including 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g. Dietary guidelines emphasize limiting saturated and trans fats to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, its very low sodium content of 23mg per 100g is beneficial, as high sodium intake is linked to elevated blood pressure. Choosing low-sodium condiments like this vinaigrette can be a simple way to manage overall sodium consumption without sacrificing flavor. While it doesn't actively provide heart-healthy fats like omega-3s, its lack of detrimental fats makes it a good choice.

Aids Blood Sugar Management

This balsamic vinaigrette can be a suitable condiment for blood sugar management. A key factor is its complete absence of added sugar, which is a common concern in many processed condiments. High intake of added sugars can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose levels and contribute to insulin resistance over time. With 0g of added sugar per 100g, this vinaigrette helps maintain stable blood sugar. Furthermore, as a minimally processed food (NOVA 1), it avoids the refined ingredients often found in ultra-processed foods that can negatively impact glycemic control. It's important to note that while the vinaigrette itself is low in sugar, it should be paired with balanced meals to fully support blood sugar goals.

Contributes to a Balanced Diet

Incorporating this balsamic vinaigrette can contribute to a balanced dietary pattern. Its classification as a NOVA 1 food means it is unprocessed or minimally processed, aligning with recommendations to prioritize whole foods. It contains no added sugar, which helps reduce overall sugar intake, a common goal for many health-conscious individuals. The low calorie count of 88 calories per 100g also makes it a lighter option compared to many creamy dressings, which can be calorie-dense. While it doesn't provide significant amounts of macronutrients or micronutrients, its clean profile allows it to enhance the flavor of nutrient-rich foods like salads and vegetables without adding unwanted components. This makes it a good choice for those aiming for overall dietary quality.

Low in Calories and Sodium

This balsamic vinaigrette is a good option for individuals monitoring their calorie and sodium intake. With only 88 calories per 100g, it is a relatively low-calorie condiment, allowing for flavor enhancement without significantly increasing meal energy content. This can be particularly useful for weight management strategies where calorie control is important. Furthermore, its sodium content is very low at 23mg per 100g. The NIH and dietary guidelines emphasize reducing sodium intake to support healthy blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension. Choosing condiments with minimal sodium, like this vinaigrette, can be an effective way to manage daily sodium consumption, especially for those on sodium-restricted diets.

How to eat it

Balsamic vinaigrette is a versatile condiment commonly used in American diets to add flavor to salads, vegetables, and marinades. Its tangy and slightly sweet profile makes it a popular choice for dressing leafy greens or as a finishing touch for cooked dishes. Generally, a typical serving size for dressing is around 1-2 tablespoons, which is significantly less than the 100g reference serving for nutritional values. This vinaigrette, being low in calories and sodium, can be a flavorful addition to many meals without contributing excessive unhealthy components.

Use balsamic vinaigrette as a light salad dressing for mixed greens, spinach, or kale. Combine with olive oil for a classic dressing.
Marinate lean proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu in balsamic vinaigrette for 30 minutes before cooking to tenderize and add flavor.
Drizzle over roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers to enhance their natural sweetness.
Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness and quality.
Things to keep in mind

For most healthy adults, balsamic vinaigrette is generally considered safe for consumption in typical serving sizes. There are no widely documented common allergies specifically to balsamic vinaigrette. However, individuals with sensitivities to vinegar or acidic foods might experience mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities. As this product contains no common allergens like dairy, nuts, or gluten, it is suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Its low sodium and fat content mean it poses minimal risk for cardiovascular concerns when used appropriately.

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Reader questions
Is balsamic vinaigrette healthy?
This balsamic vinaigrette is a healthy condiment option. It scores 60/100, indicating a 'Good' rating, largely because it is a minimally processed food (NOVA 1) with no added sugar or unhealthy fats. It is also very low in sodium, making it a good choice for those monitoring their intake of these components. While it doesn't provide significant amounts of vitamins or minerals, its clean profile allows it to enhance the flavor of nutrient-rich foods.
Is balsamic vinaigrette good for weight loss?
Yes, this balsamic vinaigrette can be good for weight loss due to its low calorie and fat content. At 88 calories per 100g, and with 0g of total fat, it's a much lighter option than many creamy dressings. Using it to flavor salads and vegetables can help you enjoy your meals without adding excessive calories, supporting a calorie-controlled diet. Its lack of added sugar also helps prevent unnecessary calorie intake.
Is balsamic vinaigrette ultra-processed?
No, this balsamic vinaigrette is not ultra-processed. It is classified as a NOVA 1 food, meaning it is unprocessed or minimally processed. This classification indicates that it retains most of its natural properties and does not contain ingredients typically found in ultra-processed foods, such as artificial flavors, colors, or excessive amounts of added sugars and fats. This makes it a more wholesome choice compared to many other condiments.
How should I store balsamic vinaigrette?
To maintain the quality and freshness of balsamic vinaigrette, it should be stored in a cool, dark place before opening. Once opened, it is generally recommended to refrigerate it. This helps preserve its flavor and prevents spoilage. Always check the product label for specific storage instructions, as formulations can vary.
What are some good alternatives to balsamic vinaigrette?
Good alternatives to balsamic vinaigrette depend on the desired flavor profile. For a similar tangy taste, red wine vinegar and olive oil is a classic choice. Lemon juice and olive oil offer a brighter, more zesty option. For creamy dressings, consider a homemade yogurt-based dressing to control ingredients and avoid added sugars and unhealthy fats often found in store-bought versions. You can also explore other vinegar types like apple cider vinegar.
Can balsamic vinaigrette be used as a marinade?
Yes, balsamic vinaigrette is an excellent choice for a marinade. Its acidic nature helps to tenderize meats, poultry, and plant-based proteins like tofu, while its flavor profile adds depth. It works particularly well with chicken, fish, and vegetables before grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. Marinating for 30 minutes to a few hours is usually sufficient to impart flavor without over-tenderizing.
Does balsamic vinaigrette contain added sugar?
This specific balsamic vinaigrette contains 0g of added sugar per 100g serving. This is a significant positive, as many commercial dressings and condiments can be high in added sugars, which contribute to excess calorie intake and can negatively impact health. Always check the nutrition label, as the added sugar content can vary widely between different brands and types of balsamic vinaigrette.

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Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy, fdcId 172241)Updated 2026-04-20