Honey Barbecue Sauce

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Common questions

Is Honey Barbecue Sauce healthy?

Honey Barbecue Sauce scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This honey barbecue sauce contains a high level of added sugars from brown sugar, pure cane sugar, and molasses, which can contribute to health issues like obesity and insulin resistance.

How processed is Honey Barbecue Sauce?

Honey Barbecue Sauce is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Honey Barbecue Sauce's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Tomato paste, Honey, Garlic powder count in its favor; Brown sugar, Pure cane sugar 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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Honey Barbecue Sauce

60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Condiments
Summary

This honey barbecue sauce contains a high level of added sugars from brown sugar, pure cane sugar, and molasses, which can contribute to health issues like obesity and insulin resistance. While it includes some beneficial ingredients like tomato paste and honey, the overall sugar content and processing level limit its healthiness. The presence of natural flavors and a moderate number of additives further impacts its score.

Key ingredients 15

Tomato paste
Good

Tomato paste is a concentrated source of tomatoes, providing antioxidants like lycopene. It is minimally processed and retains many of the nutrients found in fresh tomatoes. The concentration process enhances the bioavailability of certain nutrients.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

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Honey
Good

Honey is a natural sweetener with antioxidant properties. It contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals and has a lower glycemic index than refined sugars. Its natural composition provides some health benefits over processed sugars.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to similar health issues as other sugars, such as weight gain and increased blood sugar levels.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, offering some health benefits.

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Garlic powder
Good

Garlic powder is a dehydrated form of garlic, retaining many of its beneficial compounds. It is known for its potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and cardiovascular support. The dehydration process concentrates its flavor and nutrients.

Benefits

Contains allicin and other compounds that may support heart health and have antimicrobial properties.

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Black pepper
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

May enhance nutrient absorption and adds flavor to foods.

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Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient used as a solvent and to adjust consistency. It does not contribute any calories or nutrients. Its presence is essential for the texture and mixing of ingredients.

Benefits

Essential for hydration and does not add calories or sugars.

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Molasses
Neutral

Molasses is a byproduct of sugar refining that retains some minerals like iron and calcium. It adds a distinct flavor and color to foods. While it contains some nutrients, it is still high in sugar.

Risks

High sugar content can contribute to health issues if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Contains trace minerals such as iron and calcium, providing some nutritional value.

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White distilled vinegar
Neutral

White distilled vinegar is a common acidic ingredient used for flavor and preservation. It is produced through fermentation and is low in calories. Its acidity can enhance the flavor profile of foods.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer without adding calories.

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Worcestershire base
Neutral

Worcestershire base is a blend of ingredients providing complex flavors. It includes sugar, salt, and spices, contributing to the sauce's taste. The blend is processed but does not contain artificial additives.

Risks

Contains sugar and salt, which should be consumed in moderation to avoid health issues.

Benefits

Adds depth of flavor and complexity to the sauce.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common culinary ingredient but should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for flavor enhancement and preservation in culinary applications.

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Mustard powder
Neutral

Mustard powder is a spice that adds flavor and a slight pungency to foods. It is made from ground mustard seeds and is low in calories. It provides some antioxidants and phytonutrients.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that may offer health benefits.

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Smoked paprika
Neutral

Smoked paprika is a spice made from smoked and ground peppers, adding flavor and color. It contains antioxidants and is low in calories. The smoking process enhances its flavor profile.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and enhances flavor without adding calories.

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Onion powder
Neutral

Onion powder is a dehydrated form of onion, providing flavor and some nutrients. It is low in calories and retains some of the beneficial compounds found in fresh onions. The dehydration process concentrates its flavor.

Benefits

Adds flavor and contains some antioxidants and nutrients.

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Cayenne pepper
Neutral

Cayenne pepper is a spice that adds heat and flavor, containing capsaicin which may have health benefits. It is low in calories and used in small amounts. Capsaicin is known for its potential metabolism-boosting effects.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and provide other health benefits.

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Brown sugar
Bad

Brown sugar is a refined sugar with minimal nutritional benefits. It contributes to high sugar content in foods, which can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes. The molasses content gives it a slightly different flavor but does not significantly improve its nutritional profile.

Risks

High sugar intake is associated with increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental cavities.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional benefits.

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Pure cane sugar
Bad

Pure cane sugar is a refined sugar that contributes to the overall sugar content of the product. It is processed to remove impurities, resulting in a high glycemic index. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and insulin resistance.

Risks

High consumption of refined sugars is linked to increased risk of metabolic disorders and dental issues.

Benefits

Provides sweetness and energy but lacks essential nutrients.

See more about Pure cane sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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