Does Extra Hot Horseradish contain dairy or gluten?

No, it is free from dairy and gluten. It does contain eggs and soybean oil.

Is Extra Hot Horseradish good for weight loss?

It is low in calories, but the high fructose corn syrup adds unnecessary sugar that can hinder weight loss efforts.

Where can I buy Extra Hot Horseradish?

It is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and online via Amazon.

Is Extra Hot Horseradish safe for kids?

While safe, the intense heat and the presence of high fructose corn syrup make it a condiment to use sparingly for children.

Is Extra Hot Horseradish Gluten Free?

Yes, Extra Hot Horseradish is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or gluten-containing derivatives used in the recipe. However, while it passes the gluten test, this condiment contains several processed ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and artificial preservatives that warrant a closer look.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and straight at the formulation. For Extra Hot Horseradish, the primary ingredients are grated horseradish roots, water, and white distilled vinegar. These are the backbone of the product and are naturally free of gluten. The heat and preservation system is standard for shelf-stable condiments.

The critical question for gluten sensitivity is whether any hidden gluten sources exist. In this formula, they do not. Ingredients like xanthan gum and cellulose gum are often derived from corn or soy fermentation and are safe for celiacs. Similarly, the preservatives listed—sodium metabisulfite and sodium benzoate—are chemical preservatives, not gluten grains.

However, there are flags for other dietary restrictions. The inclusion of soybean oil and eggs makes this unsuitable for those with specific allergies. Furthermore, the presence of high fructose corn syrup and artificial flavor indicates a highly processed product. While safe from gluten, it is not a 'clean label' product.

Nutritional Value

When evaluating the nutritional profile of Extra Hot Horseradish, it is important to distinguish between macronutrients and micronutrients. This is a condiment, meaning serving sizes are small, but the density of certain additives is high.

The most significant nutritional flag is the sugar content derived from high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and added sugar. While the caloric load per teaspoon remains low, the inclusion of HFCS adds empty calories and can spike blood glucose levels, which is a consideration for those monitoring insulin response. Additionally, the presence of soybean oil contributes to the fat content, specifically Omega-6 fatty acids, which should be balanced in a healthy diet.

On the positive side, the main ingredient, horseradish root, contains isothiocyanates, compounds known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, in a formulation containing preservatives like calcium disodium EDTA and sodium benzoate, the overall health score leans towards 'processed food' rather than 'health food,' despite the low calorie count.