WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing receives a FoodScore of 26/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and contributions from **saturated fat** and **sodium**.
This WISH-BONE dressing scores 26/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A 100g serving contains 800mg of sodium and 6.67g of saturated fat.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains more added ingredients and less whole food nutrition.
Use sparingly to manage intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Scores -20 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
2.33g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
800mg
35% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.7g)-7
Sodium (800mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 26
WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing scores 26 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is significantly impacted by its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food, which incurs a substantial penalty. The product contains 43.33g of total fat per 100g, with 6.67g of that being saturated fat, contributing a penalty of 7 points. Sodium content is also high at 800mg per 100g, leading to a 4-point penalty. The ingredient list begins with soybean oil, water, and distilled vinegar, followed by sugar and numerous additives. The presence of 'Imitation Bacon Bits' which include 'textured vegetable protein (soy flour, caramel color, red 3, yellow 6)' and 'hydrolyzed corn, soy and wheat protein' further highlights its processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked ranch dressing made with whole ingredients, this WISH-BONE product offers minimal protein or fiber (0g each per 100g) and lacks significant micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and vitamins A, D, C, B12, and Folate.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in wish-bone, flavored dressing, cheddar bacon ranch, cheddar bacon ranch actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Meal Preparation
This WISH-BONE dressing offers significant convenience for consumers. It is a ready-to-use product that requires no preparation, saving time in the kitchen. For individuals with busy schedules, having a pre-made dressing can simplify meal assembly, making it easier to incorporate salads or add flavor to dishes without the need to gather and mix multiple ingredients. Its long shelf life also contributes to its practicality, allowing for easy storage and accessibility.
Flavor Enhancement for Palatability
For some individuals, the distinctive flavor profile of WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing can enhance the palatability of otherwise plain foods, such as raw vegetables or lean proteins. The combination of cheddar, bacon, and ranch flavors is designed to be appealing, potentially encouraging the consumption of foods that might otherwise be less desirable. This can be particularly useful for those looking to add a familiar and enjoyable taste to their meals.
Source of Dietary Fat
This dressing provides a source of dietary fat, primarily from soybean oil. While it contains saturated fat, the overall fat content can contribute to satiety and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from other foods in a meal. Fats are an essential macronutrient, and for individuals who need to increase their caloric intake or ensure adequate fat consumption, this product can serve as a concentrated source of energy.
WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing receives a FoodScore of 26/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and contributions from saturated fat and sodium.
How to eat it
WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing is typically used to flavor salads, as a dip for vegetables or snacks, or as an ingredient in recipes like marinades or casseroles. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons. Due to its nutrient profile, moderation is key to avoid excessive intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Use this dressing in smaller portions than recommended, such as one tablespoon, to reduce intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Pair with fiber-rich vegetables like mixed greens, cucumbers, and bell peppers to add bulk and nutrients to your meal.
Consider using this dressing as an occasional flavor accent rather than a daily staple to manage overall dietary intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several aspects of WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing. It contains soybean oil as the primary ingredient, which is a common allergen. The product also lists whey (milk) and cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk), indicating the presence of dairy allergens. For individuals with sensitivities, the 'Imitation Bacon Bits' contain 'hydrolyzed corn, soy and wheat protein', which could be a concern for those avoiding gluten or with corn sensitivities. The presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and autolyzed yeast extract are flavor enhancers that some individuals prefer to limit. Additionally, preservatives like sorbic acid and calcium disodium EDTA are included to maintain product quality.
Is WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing healthy?
WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing receives a FoodScore of 26/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is largely due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its contributions of saturated fat and sodium. It provides minimal beneficial micronutrients, protein, or fiber.
How does WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch compare to other ranch dressings?
Compared to a homemade ranch dressing made with whole ingredients, this WISH-BONE product contains more added sugars, higher sodium, and is classified as ultra-processed. When compared to other branded ranch dressings, its specific nutrient profile for fat, sodium, and added sugar would need to be evaluated on a product-by-product basis, but many prepared dressings share similar ultra-processed characteristics.
What is 'Imitation Bacon Bits' made of in this dressing?
The 'Imitation Bacon Bits' in WISH-BONE Cheddar Bacon Ranch dressing are primarily made from textured vegetable protein (soy flour, caramel color, red 3, yellow 6), soybean oil, water, salt, natural flavor, and hydrolyzed corn, soy, and wheat protein. This indicates they are a highly processed component designed to mimic the flavor and texture of bacon.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dressing?
The recommended serving size is 2 tablespoons. However, to manage intake of sodium and saturated fat, a smaller portion, such as 1 tablespoon, might be more appropriate for regular use. Being mindful of portion sizes is crucial for incorporating this product into a balanced diet.
Does this dressing contain any artificial colors?
Yes, the ingredient list for the 'Imitation Bacon Bits' specifically mentions 'caramel color, red 3, yellow 6'. These are artificial colors used to enhance the visual appeal of the imitation bacon. Some consumers prefer to avoid products containing these types of additives.