WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette salad dressing receives a FoodScore of 14/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature**, high sodium content, and the presence of added sugar.
This WISH-BONE dressing scores 14/100, indicating it is not a beneficial choice for regular consumption.
It contains 7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low nutritional score.
With 933.33mg of sodium per 100g, this product is significantly higher in sodium than a generic balsamic vinaigrette.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, lacking whole food components.
Use sparingly to manage intake of added sugars and sodium.
Scores -18 points above the condiment category average (32/100 across 822 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
7g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
933.33mg
41% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (7g)-7
Sodium (933.3mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 14
WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette earns a FoodScore of 14 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is a result of several nutritional factors. The product contains 7g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -7 points. Its sodium content is also notably high at 933.33mg per 100g, leading to a -4 point deduction. A major contributing factor to the low score is its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which results in a -10 point penalty. Furthermore, the dressing provides 200 calories per 100g but offers no protein, fiber, or significant micronutrients, leading to a -15 point penalty for empty calories. Ingredients like soybean oil and sugar are prominent, and while it includes extra virgin olive oil, its overall formulation does not align with a nutrient-dense profile. Compared to a generic unbranded balsamic vinaigrette, this WISH-BONE product has a higher sodium content and is more heavily processed, contributing to its lower FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in wish-bone, salad dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, balsamic vinaigrette actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
While not a source of significant nutrients itself, WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette can be used in small amounts to enhance the palatability of vegetables or salads. For individuals who struggle to consume enough plain vegetables, a flavorful dressing can make these foods more appealing. The strong taste of balsamic vinegar, combined with other ingredients, can encourage greater intake of nutrient-rich produce, indirectly supporting a more balanced diet.
Convenience in Meal Preparation
This dressing offers convenience for quick meal assembly. For busy individuals, having a ready-to-use dressing can simplify the process of preparing salads or marinating ingredients. Its pre-mixed formulation saves time compared to making a vinaigrette from scratch, which can be a practical benefit when time is limited, helping to avoid less healthy convenience options.
Source of Dietary Fats
The dressing contains 16.7g of total fat per 100g, primarily from soybean oil and extra virgin olive oil. While it contains some saturated fat, the presence of extra virgin olive oil contributes some monounsaturated fats. Fats are essential for nutrient absorption and satiety. When used in appropriate portions, the fats in this dressing can contribute to the overall fat intake needed for bodily functions.
WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette salad dressing receives a FoodScore of 14/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature, high sodium content, and the presence of added sugar.
How to eat it
Balsamic vinaigrette is typically used as a dressing for salads, a marinade for meats or vegetables, or a finishing sauce. A standard serving size is 2 tablespoons. Due to its concentrated flavor, it's easy to overpour, leading to higher intake of added sugar and sodium.
Measure out a single serving (2 tablespoons) to control added sugar and sodium intake.
Pair with a large volume of leafy greens and non-starchy vegetables to maximize nutrient density.
Consider diluting with a small amount of water or extra virgin olive oil to reduce the intensity and extend usage.
Use as a marinade for lean proteins like chicken or fish, then drain excess before cooking to minimize direct consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the sodium benzoate and sorbic acid used as preservatives in WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may be sensitive to these additives. The product also contains caramel color and annatto extract for coloring. Individuals with sensitivities to food dyes or those aiming to reduce their intake of ultra-processed ingredients may wish to limit consumption. The presence of soybean oil means individuals with a soy allergy should avoid this product. The high sodium content (933.33mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management.
WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette receives a FoodScore of 14/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, its added sugar content of 7g per 100g, and high sodium levels at 933.33mg per 100g. It lacks significant protein, fiber, or micronutrients.
How does WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette compare to a generic balsamic vinaigrette?
Compared to a generic, unbranded balsamic vinaigrette, WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette is higher in sodium and is classified as NOVA class 4 (ultra-processed). While both contain similar base ingredients like vinegar and oil, the WISH-BONE product includes more additives and preservatives, such as sodium benzoate and caramel color, which contribute to its lower FoodScore. For example, a generic balsamic vinaigrette might have fewer preservatives than a branded option like Ken's Steak House.
What is 'caramel color' in the ingredient list?
Caramel color is a food additive used for coloring, providing a brown hue to the dressing. It is produced by heating carbohydrates and is commonly found in many processed foods and beverages. While generally considered safe for consumption, some individuals prefer to limit foods containing artificial or added colors.
What is a recommended portion size for this dressing?
The recommended serving size for WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette is 2 tablespoons. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of added sugars and sodium. Using more than the recommended serving can quickly increase the overall caloric, sugar, and sodium load of your meal.
Can this dressing be used in cooking, or only for salads?
WISH-BONE Balsamic Vinaigrette can be used beyond salads. It can function as a marinade for meats or vegetables before grilling or roasting, or as a flavor enhancer in sauces. However, remember that cooking with it will still contribute its added sugar and sodium content to the overall dish.