KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 15/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and ultra-processed nature.
FoodScore: 15/100 (Avoid).
Contains 27.8g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 2.81g of fiber per 100g, a minor positive.
Use in small portions to manage intake of added sugar and sodium.
Scores -25 points above the condiment category average (40/100 across 103 foods).
Fiber
2.81g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
27.8g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
861.11mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.8g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (27.8g)-25
Sodium (861.1mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 15
KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce scores 15 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high content of added sugar, which is 27.8g per 100g, resulting in a substantial penalty of 25 points. The primary sweetener listed is high fructose corn syrup, an ingredient commonly found in ultra-processed foods. Additionally, the product contains 861.11mg of sodium per 100g, contributing a 4-point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring a further 10-point deduction. On the positive side, it receives minor bonuses: 2 points for its 2.81g of fiber per 100g and 2 points for its iron content (11% DV). When compared to a generic unbranded barbecue sauce, KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce aligns closely in its nutritional profile, with similar levels of added sugar and sodium, which are common characteristics of this condiment category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kraft hickory smoke barbecue sauce actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This barbecue sauce provides some iron, with 2mg per 100g, contributing 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute a small amount to daily iron intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The iron present is naturally occurring from the tomato puree base.
Contains Dietary Fiber
KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce offers 2.81g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. Although this amount is not substantial for a single serving, it is a positive attribute for a condiment, as many sauces contain negligible fiber. The fiber content likely comes from the tomato puree used as the base ingredient.
Flavor Enhancement for Vegetables
Using this sauce can make plain vegetables more palatable for some individuals, potentially encouraging greater vegetable consumption. While the sauce itself is high in added sugar and sodium, a small amount can enhance the flavor of nutrient-dense foods like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. This can be a useful strategy for those looking to increase their intake of less preferred healthy foods.
KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 15/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Barbecue sauce is typically used as a condiment, marinade, or basting sauce for grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. A common serving size is 2 tablespoons, which is important to consider given its nutritional profile. It is often consumed with meals rather than as a standalone food.
Use KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce as a flavor accent rather than a primary ingredient to manage added sugar and sodium.
Dilute the sauce with vinegar or unsweetened tomato paste to reduce its intensity and overall sugar content per serving.
Pair with lean proteins and abundant vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Measure your portion using a tablespoon to ensure you are consuming the intended serving size and not over-pouring.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high fructose corn syrup content, which is a significant source of added sugar in this product. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should use this sauce sparingly. The product also contains potassium sorbate, a common preservative used to maintain freshness. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit foods containing such additives. The sauce is also high in sodium, which could be a concern for those managing blood pressure. No major allergens are declared on the label for this specific formulation.
KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce receives a FoodScore of 15/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its low score is primarily due to its high added sugar content (27.8g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers minor benefits like some fiber and iron, these do not outweigh the penalties from sugar and sodium.
How does KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce compare to other barbecue sauces?
Compared to a generic unbranded barbecue sauce, KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high levels of added sugar and sodium. Many barbecue sauces in the market, including brands like Sweet Baby Ray's, often share these characteristics. Consumers looking for lower sugar or lower sodium options would need to specifically seek out those formulations.
What is high fructose corn syrup and why is it in this sauce?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch that is commonly used in many processed foods and beverages. In KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce, it serves as a primary source of sweetness and also contributes to the sauce's texture and shelf stability. Its presence is a major factor in the product's high added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this barbecue sauce?
A reasonable portion size for KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce is typically 2 tablespoons. This amount helps to manage the intake of added sugar and sodium. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase the amount of these components in your meal, making it harder to adhere to dietary guidelines.
Can I use this sauce if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, KRAFT Hickory Smoke Barbecue Sauce should be used very sparingly or avoided. With 27.8g of added sugar per 100g, even a small serving contributes significantly to daily sugar limits. Consider looking for sugar-free or low-sugar barbecue sauce alternatives if this is a primary dietary goal.