Barbecue sauce

Barbecue sauce

Condiment

Item Rating: 40/100

1 serving (17 grams) contains 29 calories, 0.1 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, and 6.9 grams of carbohydrates.

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467.8
calories
2.2
protein
111.0
carbohydrates
1.7
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (272g)
Calories
467.8
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 1.7 g 2%
Saturated Fat 0.1 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 2801.6 mg 121%
Total Carbohydrates 111.0 g 40%
Dietary Fiber 2.4 g 8%
Sugars 90.3 g
protein 2.2 g 4%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 89.8 mg 6%
Iron 1.7 mg 9%
Potassium 631.0 mg 13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

  • USDA FoodData - Barbecue sauce Data
    U.S. Department of Agriculture
    Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
  • Food Attributes

    Source of Calories

    94.9%
    1.9%
    3.3%
    Fat: 15 cal (3.3%)
    Protein: 8 cal (1.9%)
    Carbs: 444 cal (94.9%)

    About Barbecue sauce

    Barbecue sauce is a flavorful condiment commonly used in American cuisine to enhance grilled or smoked foods. Its origins trace back to Caribbean and African culinary influences brought to the United States, where it became a staple in Southern cooking. Typically, barbecue sauce is made with tomatoes, vinegar, sweeteners (e.g., sugar or molasses), and a mix of spices. Nutritionally, it is primarily a carbohydrate-rich condiment due to its sugar content, providing quick energy. Depending on the recipe, it may contain small amounts of micronutrients from ingredients such as garlic or tomato paste, including potassium and vitamin C, though amounts are minimal.

    Health Benefits

    • Provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content, making it useful in scenarios requiring fast fuel.
    • May contain small amounts of antioxidants like lycopene from tomatoes, which support heart health.
    • Contributes to potassium intake, beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, depending on recipe.

    Dietary Considerations

    Allergens: Contains none generally, but recipes may include soy or gluten
    Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan (when no animal-based additives are included)
    Not suitable for: Low-sugar diets, low-sodium diets (due to typical high sodium content)

    Selection and Storage

    Store barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator after opening. Use within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.

    Common Questions About Barbecue sauce Nutrition

    Is barbecue sauce high in protein?

    Barbecue sauce is not high in protein, as it typically contains less than 1 gram of protein per 2-tablespoon serving. Its primary ingredients, such as tomato paste, sugar, and vinegar, do not contribute significant protein content.

    Can I eat barbecue sauce on a keto diet?

    Regular barbecue sauce is usually not ideal for a keto diet due to its high sugar content, with many brands containing 12-16 grams of carbohydrates per 2-tablespoon serving. However, there are keto-friendly versions available that use sugar substitutes and have much lower carb counts, often under 2 grams per serving.

    Is barbecue sauce healthy, and are there concerns I should know about?

    Barbecue sauce can be enjoyed in moderation, but it is often high in sugar and sodium. A single serving (2 tablespoons) can contain 8-16 grams of sugar and 200-300 milligrams of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intakes. Checking labels for low-sugar, low-sodium options is recommended for a healthier choice.

    What is the recommended portion size for barbecue sauce?

    The typical serving size for barbecue sauce is 2 tablespoons, which is enough to add flavor without excessive sugars or calories. If watching your sugar or calorie intake, measure your portions carefully since barbecue sauce is often calorie-dense, with 30-60 calories per serving.

    How does barbecue sauce compare to other condiments like ketchup or mustard?

    Compared to ketchup, barbecue sauce typically contains more sugar and spices, leading to a sweeter and more complex flavor. Mustard, on the other hand, is much lower in calories and carbohydrates, making it a better choice for low-carb diets. If you prefer barbecue sauce but want to keep it healthier, look for sugar-free or reduced-sugar varieties.

    Data Sources & Scientific References

    Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

    1. USDA FoodData - Barbecue sauce Data
      U.S. Department of Agriculture
      Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
    2. Healthy Eating Recommendations: Sodium Intake
      Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
      Discusses sodium guidelines relevant to barbecue sauce, a food frequently high in sodium content.
    3. Excessive Sugar and Sodium Intake in Condiments
      American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
      Peer-reviewed research on the health impacts of frequent consumption of condiments like barbecue sauce.

    Additional Authoritative Sources:

    Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

    About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.