Is Braggs Salad Dressing Healthy? A Detailed Look

January 9, 2026 •

5 min read

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), some varieties of Bragg dressings score well for their use of organic and minimally processed ingredients. So, is Braggs salad dressing healthy overall, or does the answer depend on the specific product? This guide dives deep into the nutritional profile and varieties to provide clarity for health-conscious consumers.

Quick Summary

An analysis of Bragg's various salad dressings, considering their organic ingredients, nutritional content, and different formulas. Comparing options like the Oil-Free Vinaigrette versus the standard vinaigrette, this article provides a comprehensive overview of how well they align with a healthy diet.

Key Points

Bragg uses organic ingredients: All Bragg dressings are made with certified organic ingredients, including their renowned apple cider vinegar (ACV).
Nutritional profiles vary by type: The calorie, fat, and sugar content differ between varieties, so checking the label is essential. For example, the Oil-Free Vinaigrette is low-calorie but contains more added sugar than the standard version.
Dressings are pasteurized: Unlike Bragg's raw ACV, their salad dressings are pasteurized during production, meaning they do not contain the live probiotic 'mother' cultures.
Source of healthy fats: Oil-based Bragg dressings use healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, which helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Generally low in sodium: Many Bragg dressing varieties are quite low in sodium compared to other store-bought brands, but you should always check the label for specifics.
Better than conventional dressings: Because they avoid artificial additives and high-fructose corn syrup, Bragg dressings are a healthier alternative to many processed salad dressings.

A Closer Look at Bragg's Ingredients

Bragg has built a reputation on using simple, organic ingredients, particularly their famed apple cider vinegar (ACV). This commitment to cleaner labels is a primary reason many consumers view their dressings as a healthy choice. Bragg's signature Organic Vinaigrette contains organic extra virgin olive oil, ACV, honey, garlic, and coconut aminos, among other seasonings. These ingredients are generally considered wholesome compared to the artificial additives and high-fructose corn syrup found in many conventional dressings. The extra virgin olive oil, for instance, provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from your salad greens.

However, it's important to note that while the individual components are healthy, the nutritional profile can differ significantly between Bragg's product lines. The classic Vinaigrette contains oil and has higher calories and fat per serving than their Oil-Free variety. Furthermore, Bragg has confirmed that unlike their raw, unfiltered ACV, all of their finished salad dressings are pasteurized to prevent spoilage. This means they do not contain the live, beneficial bacteria (the 'mother') that their raw ACV is known for.

Understanding the Nutritional Differences in Bragg Dressings

To make an informed decision, it's crucial to compare the nutritional facts of Bragg's various offerings. For example, let's examine the difference between the Organic Vinaigrette and the Oil-Free Vinaigrette.

Bragg Organic Vinaigrette: A 2-tablespoon serving provides around 70 calories and 7g of fat, with 2g of sugar. The healthy fats come from the extra virgin olive oil. While low in sodium (around 20mg), it's a good choice for those who need healthy fats in their diet.
Bragg Oil-Free Vinaigrette: This version is significantly lower in calories and fat, with only 15 calories and 0g of fat per 2-tablespoon serving. However, it contains 3g of added sugar to balance the tartness. The zero sodium content is excellent for those with dietary restrictions in that area.

This comparison highlights that 'healthy' is not a one-size-fits-all label, even within the same brand. Your choice depends on your specific health goals—whether you're prioritizing heart-healthy fats, reducing overall calories, or minimizing added sugar intake.

Making the Healthiest Salad Dressing Choice for You

Making a salad healthy extends beyond just the greens; the dressing plays a significant role. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing or using any dressing, including Bragg's:

Check the serving size: Most nutrition labels list serving sizes as 2 tablespoons. Many people use more than this, so it's easy to add extra calories and fat without realizing it. Be mindful of how much you are pouring.
Evaluate sugar content: As seen with the Oil-Free Vinaigrette, dressings can sometimes substitute fat for sugar to maintain flavor. For a truly healthy dressing, look for minimal added sugars. Homemade versions or simple oil and vinegar combinations are often the best options for avoiding excess sugar.
Watch the sodium: While Bragg dressings are generally low in sodium, always check the label. High-sodium dressings can negate the health benefits of your salad, particularly for those with blood pressure concerns.
Consider the source of fats: The healthiest dressings use heart-healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, or flaxseed oil. These fats support overall health and can help you feel more satisfied after your meal. Bragg's oil-based dressings use a good quality source.
Look for recognizable ingredients: A short ingredient list with whole, recognizable foods is a good sign. Bragg excels here, relying on organic spices, herbs, and natural sweeteners instead of artificial flavors and preservatives.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Bragg Dressings


Feature	Homemade Bragg-Style Dressing	Store-Bought Bragg Dressing
Ingredients	You control every ingredient, including the oil, vinegar, and seasonings. Can use raw ACV.	Standardized organic ingredients from Bragg, including ACV, oils, and spices. Pasteurized.
Nutritional Profile	Fully customizable. Can adjust oil, sugar, and salt content to meet specific dietary needs.	Fixed nutrition facts. Some varieties have added sugar or fat to enhance flavor consistency.
Flavor	Fresh and customizable. Can experiment with different herbs and spices for unique profiles.	Consistent flavor profile across bottles, though it may not have the fresh-made zest.
Convenience	Requires preparation time to measure and whisk ingredients.	Ready to use straight from the bottle, making it very convenient for busy lifestyles.
Microbiome Benefits	If you use raw, unfiltered ACV, you can preserve the beneficial 'mother' for probiotic support.	The dressing is pasteurized, so it does not contain the live cultures found in raw ACV.

The Health Value of Bragg's Core Ingredient

Beyond the dressings, Bragg's original fame comes from their raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. While the dressings are pasteurized, a key component is still ACV. Studies on ACV have linked it to several health benefits, though more research is always ongoing. These potential benefits include:

Blood Sugar Regulation: ACV may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar responses after meals, particularly those high in carbs.
Weight Management: Some research suggests ACV can increase feelings of fullness, which could contribute to lower calorie intake and weight loss over time.
Antimicrobial Properties: ACV contains acetic acid, which has been shown in test-tube studies to help kill harmful bacteria.

By including ACV in their dressings, Bragg taps into some of these associated benefits, even if the pasteurization process alters the full nutritional profile. For optimal benefits, some people also use raw ACV separately.

Conclusion: A Healthy Choice with Conditions

So, is Braggs salad dressing healthy? The answer is generally yes, especially when compared to many conventional alternatives loaded with artificial ingredients and unhealthy fats. However, it's not a blanket statement. Their dressings are healthy choices due to their use of high-quality, organic ingredients, particularly the heart-healthy oils in some varieties. The nutritional profile, especially regarding calories, fat, and sugar, varies significantly between product types. By understanding the ingredients and checking the label, consumers can select the Bragg dressing that best aligns with their dietary needs. For those seeking the full probiotic benefits of raw ACV, they should consider adding raw ACV to their diet separately, as the dressings themselves are pasteurized. Overall, Bragg offers a great, wholesome option for enhancing a healthy salad with natural flavor.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making dietary changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Bragg's salad dressings are pasteurized during the production process to ensure shelf stability and prevent spoilage. This heat treatment kills the live probiotic cultures found in their raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

It depends on your dietary goals. The oil-free version is significantly lower in calories and contains zero fat, but it has slightly more added sugar to compensate for flavor. The regular vinaigrette contains healthy fats from extra virgin olive oil, which aid in nutrient absorption.

Bragg dressings are generally low in sodium compared to many store-bought alternatives. For example, the Organic Vinaigrette has only 20mg of sodium per serving. Always check the nutrition facts for the specific product you're buying.

The primary benefit is that they are made with simple, high-quality, organic ingredients and avoid the artificial flavors, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup common in other brands. They also feature apple cider vinegar, which offers its own potential health benefits.

Healthy fats, like the extra virgin olive oil used in Bragg's vinaigrettes, are essential for your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K from your salad's vegetables. These fats also help you feel full and satisfied.

Yes, many Bragg dressings are versatile enough to be used as a marinade. Their vinaigrettes, with their tangy flavor profile, work particularly well for marinating vegetables, chicken, and other proteins.

Store-bought Bragg dressings offer superior convenience and a consistent flavor profile but are pasteurized and contain trace amounts of added sugars for consistency. Homemade versions allow for full control over every ingredient and can retain live cultures by using raw ACV.