Sweetgreen Hot Sauce: The Full Nutritional Breakdown
When adding a little kick to your salad or bowl at Sweetgreen, it's easy to overlook the nutritional impact of a condiment. However, for those carefully managing their diet, understanding what are the macros for Sweetgreen hot sauce is key. A single serving is remarkably light on calories and other macronutrients, but it is important to be mindful of its sodium content.
Based on data from Sweetgreen's nutrition facts, a single 28-gram (or 1-ounce) serving of their standard hot sauce offers the following:
- Calories: 10 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 1g
This breakdown confirms that the sauce is a virtually fat-free and low-carb option. The small amount of carbohydrates and protein contributes to the minimal calorie count.
Comparing Macros: Hot Sauce vs. Other Sweetgreen Options
It's helpful to compare the hot sauce to other flavorings and menu items at Sweetgreen to understand its relative nutritional impact. For example, some dressings and sauces contain significantly more calories and fat.
| Item | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetgreen Hot Sauce | 28 g | 10 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 170 |
| Hot Honey Mustard Sauce | ~30 g | 100 | 8 | 4 | 0 | 420 |
| Pesto Vinaigrette | 30 g | 190 | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
As the table clearly shows, the hot sauce is an excellent way to add flavor without a significant increase in calories or fat, especially when compared to creamier or oil-based dressings. For those on a very low-carb diet, the hot sauce also adds a minimal amount of net carbs.
The Role of Sodium in Sweetgreen's Hot Sauce
While the macro profile is minimal, the sodium content is worth noting. At 170mg per serving, it provides a noticeable percentage of the recommended daily value (DV). For individuals watching their sodium intake due to blood pressure or other health concerns, it's important to factor this into their meal plan. However, for the average person, this amount is relatively modest, especially when considering a serving size is only a single squirt.
How Sweetgreen's Hot Sauce Is Used
Sweetgreen's hot sauce is a versatile condiment used to enhance a variety of dishes. It is often paired with bowls and salads to add a spicy kick. Popular uses include:
- Fish Taco: The hot sauce is listed as an ingredient in the Fish Taco bowl, complementing the miso-glazed salmon and vegetables.
- Custom Bowls: It's a key component for adding custom spice to any build-your-own creation.
- Pesto Parm Bowl: The sauce is used to add an extra layer of heat to the Chicken Pesto Parm bowl.
Because of its simple macro profile, it won't drastically change the nutritional content of a complete meal, but it will significantly alter the flavor experience.
Ingredient Profile and Dietary Considerations
While an official ingredient list from Sweetgreen is not always readily available in public search results, the macro profile and general taste suggest a composition similar to other vinegar-based hot sauces. They likely contain a mix of chili peppers, vinegar, salt, and garlic. Its low-fat and low-protein nature also indicates it is suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets.
Considerations for different diets:
- Keto/Low-Carb: With only 1g net carbs per serving, the hot sauce is a keto-friendly condiment that can be used to add flavor without concern for carb counts.
- Low-Calorie: The 10-calorie count makes it a great choice for those seeking to minimize their caloric intake while maximizing flavor.
- Sodium-Conscious: Individuals on a low-sodium diet should be mindful, as multiple servings can add up. It's best to use it in moderation or as an occasional treat.
For more detailed information on Sweetgreen's menu and comprehensive nutrition data, you can often consult their official website or nutrition binders for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
Sweetgreen's hot sauce offers a low-calorie, low-macro way to spice up any meal. Its nearly non-existent fat and protein content, along with its low carbohydrate count, makes it a great fit for a wide range of dietary preferences, including low-carb and keto diets. The primary consideration is its sodium level, which should be monitored by those with specific dietary restrictions. Overall, it's a flavorful and diet-friendly condiment for adding a welcome burst of heat.
