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BBQ sauceis an essential part of summer, but it’s delicious year round and instantly elevates any dish.
Brands/Shutterstock
From chicken to ribs to salad dressings, BBQ sauce adds a flavorful touch.
However, not every brand is worthy of space in your pantry.
Some are loaded with sugar, sodium and additives that should give you pause before buying.
Stubb’s
Knowing what to look for can help avoid unhealthy choices.
While it might be tasty, you’re risking your heart.
TheAmerican Heart Associationsays too many Americans consume more salt than recommended.
Franklin BBQ
The organization suggests having no more than 2,300 milligrams a day, but many people have 3,500mg daily.
Sugar: Many BBQ sauce brands are loaded with added sugars.
When consumed often, too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other major health concerns.
Noble Made
“Just 5 grams of sugar per two tablespoon serving.
I appreciate that it’s “Non-GMO project verified” and also fits my gluten-free eating preference.”
Plus, it’s healthy.
Noble Made
While it’s higher in sodium, it’s filled with wholesome ingredients.
I also love seeing more products, like this one, incorporating apple cider vinegar.
Primal Kitchen Mustard BBQ Sauce
Primal Kitchen Mustard BBQ Sauce is full of flavor and dietitian-approved ingredients.
Primal Kitchen
“Plus, it uses apple cider vinegar, which can help stabilize blood sugar during digestion.”
Dietitians can’t stop raving about this one.
Best particularly loves this BBQ sauce for its clean ingredients.
G. Hughes Sugar-Free
“This means no MSG or high fructose corn syrup (HFCS).
Hughes Sugar-Free BBQ Sauces, which come in eight different varieties.
Plus, it’s the healthiest BBQ sauce on our list!
Good Food for Good
“Compared to traditional BBQ sauces, it’s lower in sodium.”
“The worst BBQ sauce isBuffalo Wild Wings Honey BBQ Sauce.”
She explains, “It contains over 400 mg of sodium per serving and 13g of added sugar.
Buffalo Wild Wings
That’s over 1/3 of the recommended daily added sugar allowance.
On top of all this it is made with soybean oil, a pro-inflammatory oil which is highly processed.
There is 17g of added sugar in 1 serving (2 Tbsp).
Jack Daniel’s Sauces
That is more than half of the recommended amount for people.
Also included in the ingredients are preservatives and artificial flavors.”
Sweet Baby Ray’s
Blues Hog