Hoisin Sauce

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Hoisin Sauce healthy?

Hoisin Sauce scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This hoisin sauce is ultra-processed, which limits its score due to the presence of refined ingredients like cane sugar and caramel color.

How processed is Hoisin Sauce?

Hoisin Sauce is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Hoisin Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Rice Vinegar, Garlic Puree, Sesame Tahini count in its favor; Cane Sugar, Caramel Color are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Hoisin Sauce

Sprouts
Bioengineered
60 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Sprouts Farmers Market
Category Condiments
Summary

This hoisin sauce is ultra-processed, which limits its score due to the presence of refined ingredients like cane sugar and caramel color. While it contains some beneficial spices and ingredients such as garlic puree and sesame tahini, the high sugar content and use of caramel color contribute to its lower rating. The processing level and presence of refined sugar are significant factors impacting its healthiness.

Key ingredients 16

Rice Vinegar
Good

Rice vinegar is a fermented product that adds acidity and flavor to dishes. It is minimally processed and can aid in digestion. The fermentation process may also provide beneficial probiotics.

Benefits

May aid digestion and provide beneficial probiotics.

Garlic Puree
Good

Garlic puree is made from crushed garlic, offering potent flavor and health benefits. It contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Garlic is known for supporting cardiovascular health.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in some individuals if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Supports cardiovascular health and has antimicrobial properties.

See more about Garlic Puree →
Sesame Tahini
Good

Sesame tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, rich in healthy fats and minerals. It provides calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats that support heart health. The seeds are minimally processed, retaining their nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with sesame allergies.

Benefits

Rich in healthy fats and minerals, supporting heart health and bone strength.

Ground Cinnamon
Good

Ground cinnamon is a spice known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. It is minimally processed and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon adds flavor and may support metabolic health.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

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Star Anise Powder
Good

Star anise powder is a spice with a distinct flavor and potential health benefits. It contains shikimic acid, which has antiviral properties. The spice is minimally processed, retaining its natural compounds.

Benefits

Contains shikimic acid, which may have antiviral properties.

Fennel Powder
Good

Fennel powder is a spice known for its digestive benefits and aromatic flavor. It is minimally processed and contains compounds that may aid digestion. Fennel is also a source of antioxidants.

Benefits

May aid digestion and provide antioxidant benefits.

Szechuan Peppercorn
Good

Szechuan peppercorn is a spice that provides a unique numbing flavor and potential health benefits. It contains compounds that may support digestion and circulation. The spice is minimally processed, preserving its natural properties.

Benefits

May support digestion and improve circulation.

Clove Powder
Good

Clove powder is a spice rich in antioxidants and known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is minimally processed and can support oral health. Cloves contain eugenol, which has antimicrobial effects.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and supports oral health.

Tamari Sauce
Neutral

Tamari sauce is a soy-based condiment that provides umami flavor without gluten. It is fermented, which can enhance digestibility and nutrient absorption. However, it is high in sodium, which may be a concern for some individuals.

Risks

High sodium content can contribute to hypertension if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Fermentation may improve gut health and nutrient absorption.

Apple Juice Concentrate
Neutral

Apple juice concentrate is a sweetener derived from apples, providing natural sugars and some vitamins. It is processed to remove water, concentrating sugars and flavors. While it offers some nutrients, it is still high in sugar.

Risks

High sugar content can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.

Benefits

Contains some vitamins and antioxidants from apples.

See more about Apple Juice Concentrate →
Corn Starch
Neutral

Corn starch is a refined carbohydrate used as a thickening agent. It is highly processed and provides little nutritional value. While it is effective for texture, it lacks essential nutrients.

See more about Corn Starch →
Lemon Juice Concentrate
Neutral

Lemon juice concentrate is derived from lemons, providing acidity and vitamin C. It is processed to remove water, concentrating the flavor and nutrients. While it offers some vitamin C, it is primarily used for flavor.

Benefits

Provides vitamin C and enhances flavor.

See more about Lemon Juice Concentrate →
Jalapeño Puree
Neutral

Jalapeño puree is made from pureed jalapeño peppers, adding spice and flavor. It contains capsaicin, which may have metabolic benefits. The puree is minimally processed, retaining the peppers' natural compounds.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is a common seasoning that enhances flavor but provides no essential nutrients beyond sodium. It is refined and lacks trace minerals found in unrefined salts. High sodium intake can be a health concern.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

See more about Salt →
Cane Sugar
Bad

Cane sugar is a refined sugar that contributes to high caloric intake without providing essential nutrients. It is processed to remove impurities, resulting in a product that can lead to blood sugar spikes. Excessive consumption is linked to obesity and metabolic disorders.

Risks

High intake of refined sugars can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.

See more about Cane Sugar →
Caramel Color
Bad

Caramel color is a food coloring agent that adds color to products. It is created through the controlled heating of carbohydrates, which can produce undesirable compounds. Some forms of caramel color may contain 4-MEI, a potential carcinogen.

Risks

Potential presence of 4-MEI, a compound linked to cancer in high doses.

See more about Caramel Color →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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