The Ketchup with No Added Sugar: What You Need to Know
For decades, the classic Heinz ketchup has been a household staple, but its iconic flavor comes with a hefty amount of added sugars. A single tablespoon of regular Heinz ketchup contains about 4 grams of sugar, primarily from high fructose corn syrup. In response to consumer demand for healthier, lower-sugar options, Heinz introduced its "No Sugar Added Tomato Ketchup" variant. This product is formulated to contain 75% less sugar than the classic formula, making it a viable alternative for individuals following low-carb, keto, or diabetic-friendly diets. Instead of relying on sugar for sweetness, Heinz uses alternative sweeteners and relies more heavily on the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Profile
Understanding what's in your food is crucial, especially when evaluating low-sugar products. The ingredients and nutritional information can vary slightly by market, so it's always best to check the label for the specific product you're buying. However, the general composition for Heinz No Sugar Added Ketchup is consistent across most regions. Here are the typical ingredients and nutritional highlights:
- Ingredients: Tomato Concentrate (from red ripe tomatoes), Distilled White Vinegar, Salt, Natural Flavoring, Onion Powder, Spices, and a sweetener. The specific sweetener can be either sucralose or stevia leaf extract, depending on the product version. Some variations may also include Torula yeast or garlic powder for enhanced flavor.
- Nutrition: A 15 mL serving typically contains around 10-15 calories and less than 1 gram of total carbohydrates, with 0 grams of added sugar. The small amount of sugar present is naturally occurring from the tomatoes themselves.
Taste Test: How Does It Compare to Regular Heinz?
For many loyal Heinz customers, the biggest question is whether the low-sugar version can deliver the same classic, balanced taste. The general consensus from reviews is overwhelmingly positive, with many customers expressing surprise at how similar the taste is to the original.
- What customers say: Many reviewers on sites like Walmart and Target note that they can't tell the difference, or that the taste is almost identical. Some have even suggested that the flavor is better, allowing the natural tomato taste to come through more prominently.
- Minor differences: Some more discerning palates might notice slight differences, such as a slightly more pronounced vinegar or peppery flavor. This is often due to the removal of the masking sweetness from sugar. The texture is generally reported to be the same thick, rich consistency as the original.
Comparison of Ketchup Varieties
To help you decide, here is a comparison table outlining the differences between three common ketchup options available from Heinz and a competitor.
| Feature | Classic Heinz Tomato Ketchup | Heinz No Sugar Added | Primal Kitchen Unsweetened Organic Ketchup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Sweetener(s) | High Fructose Corn Syrup and Corn Syrup | Sucralose or Stevia | Organic Balsamic Vinegar, Organic Spices |
| Added Sugar | Yes (Approx. 4g per tbsp) | No (0g) | No |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 4g per tbsp | <1g per tbsp | 1g per tbsp |
| Dietary Suitability | Standard, not low-carb friendly | Keto, Low-Carb, Diabetic Friendly | Whole30, Paleo, Keto, Organic |
| Key Benefit | Classic, familiar flavor profile | Significantly lower sugar and carb count | All-natural, organic ingredients |
Considering Other Low-Sugar Ketchup Alternatives
While Heinz is a reliable and widely available option, it's not the only choice for low-sugar ketchup. Other brands cater to specific dietary needs or preferences, offering different ingredients and flavor profiles.
- Primal Kitchen Unsweetened Ketchup: This is a popular alternative for those who prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners like sucralose. It is sweetened with organic balsamic vinegar and contains no added sugars, making it suitable for Paleo and Whole30 diets.
- Whole Foods 365 Organic No Sugar Added Ketchup: An organic option that also contains no added sugar, relying on organic tomatoes and spices for flavor.
- Homemade Ketchup: For maximum control over ingredients, making your own low-sugar ketchup at home is a great option. Recipes typically involve simmering tomatoes or tomato paste with vinegar, onion powder, and spices, with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol to taste.
Is Heinz No Sugar Added Ketchup the Right Choice for You?
For most people looking to reduce their sugar intake without compromising on the classic ketchup flavor, Heinz No Sugar Added is an excellent, accessible choice. The widespread availability and positive taste reviews make it a reliable pantry staple for many families. However, for those with concerns about artificial sweeteners or prefer an all-natural product, exploring alternatives like Primal Kitchen is a better option. It's important to weigh your dietary goals and preferences when making a decision.
EWG Food Scores for Heinz No Sugar Added Ketchup
Where to Buy
Heinz No Sugar Added Ketchup can be found at most major grocery stores and supermarkets, including Walmart and Target, as well as online retailers like Amazon and Netrition. Some international variations may also be available on sites like Ubuy.
Conclusion
Yes, Heinz does make a low sugar ketchup, specifically its "No Sugar Added" product, which has gained popularity for its taste and suitability for low-sugar diets. With 75% less sugar than the original, it offers a great compromise between health-conscious choices and familiar flavor. Whether this version is the best choice for you depends on your comfort level with artificial sweeteners and your dietary restrictions, but it remains a top contender in the low-sugar condiment market.
