Is Traditional red enchilada sauce mild Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is Halal, we look for the three main culprits: alcohol, pork, and non-Halal animal enzymes. In the case of Traditional red enchilada sauce mild, the ingredient list is surprisingly clean from a dietary restriction standpoint. The base of the sauce is simply water and red chiles, specifically dehydrated California chile pods and dehydrated pasilla pods. These are strictly vegetables and pose no Halal concerns.

For thickening, the sauce utilizes modified food starch. While starch can sometimes be derived from wheat, it is often corn-based in sauces like this. Regardless of the source, starch is a carbohydrate and is permissible. The fats used are soybean oil, which is a vegetable oil and fully Halal. The acidity is maintained by distilled vinegar. A common misconception involves vinegar; however, distilled vinegar is chemically processed to acetic acid and water, removing any alcohol content, making it safe for consumption. Finally, the flavor profile is enhanced with garlic, spice, and salt, all of which are natural and permissible.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this sauce is relatively low in calories, as the primary ingredients are water and chiles. However, you should pay attention to the sodium content, which is typically high in jarred sauces due to the salt and preservatives. If you are monitoring your blood pressure or daily salt intake, this sauce should be used in moderation. The soybean oil contributes a small amount of fat, but it is generally considered heart-healthy unsaturated fat. There is a negligible amount of sugar in this specific formulation, making it a better option than many sweet BBQ sauces or glazes. It fits well into a low-carb or Keto diet, provided you account for the trace carbohydrates in the modified food starch.