HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high fat content**, particularly saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This HELLMANN'S dressing scores 18/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 71.43g of total fat per 100g, with 10.71g of saturated fat.
The product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to generic mayonnaise, this vegan version has a similar fat and sodium profile.
Use sparingly to manage intake of fats and sodium.
Scores -22 points above the condiment category average (40/100 across 103 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
857.14mg
37% 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 (10.7g)-15
Sodium (857.1mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 18
HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing earns a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high fat content, with 71.43g of total fat per 100g, of which 10.71g is saturated fat. The saturated fat content alone incurs a significant penalty of 15 points. Additionally, the product contains 857.14mg of sodium per 100g, contributing a 4-point penalty. The primary ingredient, soybean oil, is a concentrated source of fat. The formulation also includes sugar and modified food starch, contributing to its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which results in a 10-point penalty. A further 3-point penalty is applied because it is a concentrated ultra-processed fat product. While the product is marketed as 'vegan,' this designation primarily addresses dietary preferences rather than overall nutritional density. Compared to a generic unbranded mayonnaise, this HELLMANN'S product has a comparable nutritional profile in terms of fat and sodium, reflecting common characteristics of the condiment category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hellmann's vegan carefully crafted dressing actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Suitable for Vegan Diets
This HELLMANN'S dressing is formulated without animal products, making it a suitable option for individuals following a vegan or plant-based diet. It provides a creamy texture and flavor similar to traditional mayonnaise, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy a familiar condiment. This can be beneficial for individuals transitioning to or maintaining a plant-based lifestyle, offering a convenient substitute in recipes and meals that typically call for egg-based mayonnaise.
Source of Energy
With 642.86 calories per 100g, this dressing is a calorie-dense food, primarily from its high fat content. For individuals who require additional caloric intake, such as those with high energy demands or specific dietary needs, a small serving can contribute to overall energy goals. However, due to its low nutrient density, it is important to balance this energy source with other nutrient-rich foods.
Flavor Enhancement
As a condiment, this dressing primarily serves to enhance the flavor and texture of meals. Its rich, creamy profile can make salads, sandwiches, and other dishes more palatable, potentially encouraging the consumption of vegetables or lean proteins that might otherwise be less appealing. The presence of ingredients like distilled vinegar and lemon juice concentrate contributes to its characteristic tangy taste.
HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high fat content, particularly saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing is typically used as a condiment, similar to traditional mayonnaise. It's often spread on sandwiches, used as a base for dressings, or mixed into salads. A common portion size is 1 tablespoon.
Use this dressing sparingly as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to manage fat and sodium intake.
Combine a small amount of this dressing with vinegar or lemon juice to create a lighter, lower-calorie salad dressing.
Pair with vegetable-rich dishes like salads or wraps to balance the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
Consider using it as a binder in plant-based burgers or patties, where a small amount can add moisture and richness.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soybean oil, which is a common allergen for some individuals. While the product is vegan, those with soy allergies should avoid it. The presence of calcium disodium EDTA is for quality protection and is generally recognized as safe, but some individuals prefer to limit synthetic additives. Given its high sodium content (857.14mg per 100g), individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be mindful of portion sizes. The product is also classified as ultra-processed, which suggests a formulation that may be less beneficial for overall health when consumed regularly in large quantities.
Is HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing healthy?
HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing has a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high fat content, particularly saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it is suitable for vegan diets, its nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation.
How does HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing compare to other vegan mayonnaises?
Compared to other vegan mayonnaise brands like JUST Mayo, HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing has a similar nutritional profile, often featuring soybean oil as the primary ingredient and comparable levels of fat and sodium. Most vegan mayonnaise alternatives aim to replicate the texture and flavor of traditional mayonnaise, leading to similar macro-nutrient compositions.
What is 'modified food starch' in this product?
Modified food starch, derived from corn or potato in this product, is used as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps achieve the desired creamy texture and prevents separation of ingredients. It is a common additive in many processed foods and is generally considered safe for consumption.
What is a recommended portion size for this dressing?
The recommended serving size for HELLMANN'S Vegan Carefully Crafted Dressing is 1 tablespoon. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of fats and sodium, which are present in significant amounts per 100g. Using a measuring spoon can help ensure accurate portion control.
Can this dressing be used in cooking?
Yes, this dressing can be used in cooking, particularly in recipes where a creamy texture and rich flavor are desired, such as in cold salads (e.g., potato salad, coleslaw) or as a base for sauces. However, due to its heat sensitivity, it's generally best added towards the end of cooking or to dishes that are not subjected to high heat.