Does Original Sauce contain dairy or gluten?

No, the ingredient list shows no dairy products (like milk or cheese) and no gluten-containing grains. It is safe for both dairy-free and gluten-free diets.

Is Original Sauce good for weight loss?

It is low in fat, but the corn syrup adds sugar calories. It can fit into a weight loss plan if used sparingly, but it is not a 'free' food.

Where can I buy Original Sauce?

Original Sauce is widely available at major grocery chains, big-box stores like Walmart or Target, and online retailers such as Amazon.

Is Original Sauce safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children. However, due to the sugar content from corn syrup, it should be given in moderation to prevent excess sugar intake.

Is Original Sauce Gluten Free?

Yes, Original Sauce is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or oat ingredients present that would trigger a gluten reaction. This makes it a suitable condiment choice for those managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a sauce is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look for the obvious culprits like wheat flour and the hidden ones like malt vinegar. Starting with the base, tomato puree and vinegar are naturally gluten-free. It is important to note that while some vinegars are derived from gluten grains, the distillation process removes the gluten protein. Unless specified otherwise (like malt vinegar), standard vinegar in commercial sauces is safe.

Looking at the sweeteners and thickeners, we see corn syrup and xanthan gum. Corn syrup is derived from corn, which is a gluten-free grain. Xanthan gum is a common food thickener produced by fermentation of glucose or sucrose; it is widely used in gluten-free cooking to mimic the texture that gluten provides in baked goods and sauces. Neither of these poses a risk.

Finally, the flavor profile comes from raisin paste, crushed orange puree, spices, dried garlic, dried onions, and celery seed. These are all single-ingredient, plant-based items that do not contain gluten. The caramel color used here is also generally considered gluten-free in the US, as it is typically derived from corn or non-gluten carbohydrates. With potassium sorbate acting as a preservative, the entire formula appears free of gluten-containing ingredients.

Nutritional Value

While the sauce is gluten-free, it is important to consider the nutritional profile for overall health. The presence of corn syrup indicates that this is a sugar-sweetened condiment. For those monitoring their sugar intake or managing diabetes, portion control is key. The sauce likely contributes a small number of calories per serving, but the sugar content can add up quickly if used liberally.

In terms of fat and sodium, sauces like this are typically low in fat but can be moderate to high in sodium due to the salt content. If you are on a low-sodium diet, checking the specific nutrition label on the bottle is recommended. However, for the average person, it fits within standard dietary limits as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary food source.