Lawry's Salt-Free and Low-Sodium Seasoning Options
The good news for home cooks watching their sodium intake is that the makers of Lawry's do provide products that cater to this dietary need. The company offers a few key alternatives to its original, high-sodium seasoned salt, allowing you to enjoy vibrant flavors without the added salt.
Lawry's Salt Free 17 Seasoning
This all-purpose blend is the primary salt-free offering from the brand. Instead of relying on salt for flavor, it combines 17 different herbs and spices. Ingredients include paprika, black pepper, basil, turmeric, and garlic, along with red bell pepper, toasted sesame seeds, orange peel, and lemon peel. This creates a complex, savory flavor that works well on a variety of dishes, including:
- Poultry
- Seafood
- Beef
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta salads
This seasoning is a versatile kitchen staple for anyone on a strict sodium-restricted diet, offering robust flavor with 0mg of sodium per serving.
Lawry's Salt Free Mexican Seasoning
For those who love Tex-Mex cuisine, Lawry's also offers a Salt Free Mexican Seasoning. This blend features authentic spices like chili pepper, cumin, and red pepper, making it perfect for dishes such as fajitas, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. It provides a zesty kick without relying on salt.
Lawry's Salt Free Lemon & Pepper Seasoning
This citrus-based blend is another excellent salt-free choice. It combines the bright flavors of lemon peel, black pepper, and red and green bell peppers to create a zesty and aromatic seasoning. It is particularly well-suited for chicken, fish, and other seafood, where it enhances the natural flavors of the protein.
Lawry's Less Sodium Seasoned Salt
For those who want to reduce sodium but aren't ready to eliminate it entirely, Lawry's offers a 25% Less Sodium Seasoned Salt. This product provides a flavor profile similar to the original, but with a significant reduction in sodium. It's a great stepping stone for gradually adjusting your palate to less salt over time.
The Importance of a Low-Sodium Diet
Reducing sodium intake is a key component of a healthy nutrition diet, particularly for preventing and managing high blood pressure and heart disease. The average American consumes far more sodium than is recommended, often without realizing it, as a quarter-teaspoon serving of regular Lawry's contains 380mg of sodium. Choosing salt-free or low-sodium alternatives is a simple but impactful way to improve your overall health.
Comparison of Lawry's Seasoning Blends
| Feature | Lawry's Seasoned Salt (Original) | Lawry's Salt Free 17 Seasoning | Lawry's Less Sodium Seasoned Salt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium Content (per 1/4 tsp) | 380mg | 0mg | 270mg (25% less than original) |
| Key Flavor Notes | Salt, paprika, garlic, turmeric, onion | Herbs, spices, garlic, onion, lemon, sesame | Salt, paprika, garlic, turmeric, onion, potassium chloride |
| Best For | Meats, vegetables, fries, burgers | All-purpose seasoning for meat, poultry, fish, veggies | All-purpose seasoning for reduced-sodium recipes |
| Suitability for Low-Sodium Diet | Not recommended | Highly suitable | Suitable, but requires moderation |
| Added MSG | No | No | No |
Crafting Your Own Salt-Free Seasoning Blends
If you prefer to have full control over your ingredients, making a homemade salt-free seasoning blend is easy and allows for endless customization. Many copycat recipes for Lawry's exist, and you can simply omit the salt. The key is to use a robust mix of spices to make up for the missing saltiness.
Ingredients for a basic homemade blend:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika (smoked or regular)
- Black pepper
- Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
- Turmeric
- A touch of sugar (optional, for balance)
Beyond simple blends, consider these flavor-boosting ideas:
- Acidic flavors: A squeeze of fresh lemon, lime, or a splash of vinegar can brighten a dish and mimic the effect of salt.
- Spicy heat: Add a kick with cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to make a dish more dynamic.
- Aromatics: Sautéed onions and garlic can build a foundation of deep, savory flavor.
- Nutritional yeast: This ingredient provides a cheesy, savory, or 'umami' flavor profile that can enhance dishes like pasta and popcorn.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is not only possible but also quite easy to find a salt-free Lawry's seasoning. The brand's Salt Free 17 Seasoning and other salt-free varieties offer excellent ways to reduce sodium without sacrificing taste. Furthermore, many other flavorful and healthy salt-free alternatives are readily available or can be easily prepared at home. By making smart seasoning choices, you can improve your nutrition diet and enjoy delicious, heart-healthy meals. For more insights into how McCormick, the parent company of Lawry's, is addressing dietary needs, you can explore their professional products information.
