Sodium Content in Lawry's Seasonings: What You Need to Know
The query, "Is Lawry's salt free?" is a frequent question for those mindful of their sodium intake. This is due to the brand's wide selection of products. While the original Lawry's Seasoned Salt includes salt as a primary ingredient, the company also makes salt-free blends. A clear understanding of the product lines and labels is essential for making informed choices.
Lawry's Original Seasoned Salt
Lawry's Seasoned Salt, introduced in 1938, includes salt as a major component. A typical serving (1/4 tsp or 1.2g) has about 380mg of sodium. This is around 17% of the suggested daily value, based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Its distinctive flavor comes from a blend of ingredients including salt, sugar, paprika, turmeric, onion, and garlic. Therefore, the original seasoning is not a salt-free choice.
Lawry's Salt-Free Options
Lawry's offers salt-free products for those on sodium-restricted diets. These products are clearly labeled. Two of the popular salt-free choices are:
- Lawry's Salt-Free 17 Seasoning: This is a versatile, all-purpose blend featuring 17 different spices, herbs, and vegetables, such as turmeric and basil. It has no sodium per serving. It's suitable for seasoning poultry, seafood, pasta, and vegetables without adding salt.
- Lawry's Salt Free Lemon & Pepper Seasoning: This blend is also salt-free and has a citrus flavor. It adds flavor to dishes like fish and chicken. Ingredients include black pepper, paprika, and lemon peel.
To ensure you are buying a salt-free product, look for the "Salt Free" label on the packaging. The design of these containers differs from the original Seasoned Salt bottle.
Less Sodium Options
Lawry's offers seasoned products with reduced sodium. The Lawry's 25% Less Sodium Seasoned Salt contains 25% less sodium compared to the original. This is not a salt-free product, and still has a significant amount of sodium. Those on strict low-sodium diets should use the salt-free options. Similarly, there is a 25% Less Sodium Garlic Salt with Parsley.
Identifying Salt-Free vs. Standard Lawry's
To prevent using high-sodium seasonings, follow these steps when shopping:
- Read the Label: Check the nutritional information and ingredients list. Salt-free products have 0mg of sodium per serving.
- Look for the "Salt Free" or "No Salt Added" Banner: These phrases are on the front of salt-free product packaging.
- Check the Ingredients: The ingredient list for the original seasoned salt will list "salt" first, indicating it is the most abundant ingredient. Salt-free versions will list only spices and herbs.
Comparison Table of Lawry's Seasonings
| Product Name | Salt Content | Sodium per 1/4 tsp | Key Ingredients | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lawry's Seasoned Salt | Contains salt | 380mg | Salt, sugar, paprika, turmeric, onion, garlic | All-purpose, meats, potatoes, eggs | The original, with a high sodium content. |
| Lawry's 25% Less Sodium Seasoned Salt | Reduced salt | 270mg | Salt, potassium chloride, sugar, spices, onion, garlic | All-purpose, for lower sodium intake | Contains potassium chloride, not salt-free. |
| Lawry's Salt-Free 17 Seasoning | No salt added | 0mg | 17 herbs and spices including basil, turmeric, sesame seeds | Seafood, poultry, vegetables, pasta | A salt-free option. |
| Lawry's Salt Free Lemon & Pepper | No salt added | 0mg | Black pepper, paprika, lemon peel, mustard seed | Fish, chicken, seafood | Salt-free with a citrus flavor. |
Conclusion
The question, "Is Lawry's salt free?" has a specific answer that varies based on the product. While the original and some reduced-sodium blends include salt, the brand also has salt-free products. Consumers should always read labels to choose the right seasoning for their needs. Choosing the salt-free versions allows consumers to enjoy the flavors of Lawry's spices without added sodium. For more information on low-sodium cooking, the American Heart Association provides helpful resources.
Alternatives to Lawry's for Salt-Free Seasoning
If you prefer a wide variety of salt-free flavors or enjoy making your own blends, many alternatives are available. Many stores offer salt-free spice blends from different brands. You can also create your own custom seasonings at home by blending individual spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Fresh herbs, citrus juices, and vinegars also add flavor without salt.
