Sauces/Spreads/Dips/Condiments: Nutrition Facts and Calories

This category includes a wide variety of products used to add flavor and moisture to meals, such as ketchups, mustards, hot sauces, salad dressings, mayonnaise, salsas, and dips. When choosing products in this category, pay attention to the Nutrition Facts label. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugars and sodium. Look for options lower in these, especially in items like ketchup, sweet relishes, and creamy dressings. Also, check the ingredient list. Ingredients are listed by weight, so foods where whole fruits, vegetables, or whole grains appear earlier in the list may offer more of these beneficial components. For dressings, consider those made with vegetable oils rather than saturated fats. Reading these labels can help you make informed choices that align with a healthy eating pattern. All values are shown per 100 g so products can be compared.