Steak is a beloved dish enjoyed by many around the world. It’s juicy, flavorful, and a staple on menus from casual diners to high-end restaurants. But what’s a great steak without a delicious sauce to accompany it? Many people turn to store-bought steak sauces for convenience, but not all sauces are created equal. In fact, some are packed with unhealthy ingredients that can undermine the health benefits of your steak dinner. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at nine of the unhealthiest store-bought steak sauces, so you can make more informed choices next time you’re shopping for condiments.
1. A.1. Original Steak Sauce
While A.1. Original Steak Sauce may be a classic choice for many steak lovers, it’s important to note its high sodium content. Just one tablespoon of A.1. Original Steak Sauce contains 280 milligrams of sodium, which is about 12% of the recommended daily intake. Excessive sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure and heart disease, so it’s best to use this sauce sparingly.
2. Heinz 57 Sauce
Heinz 57 Sauce is another popular option for steak lovers, but it’s not the healthiest choice. Like A.1. Original Steak Sauce, Heinz 57 Sauce is high in sodium, with one tablespoon containing 190 milligrams. Additionally, Heinz 57 Sauce contains high fructose corn syrup, a type of sugar that has been linked to obesity and other health issues when consumed in excess.
3. Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce
While Worcestershire sauce adds a unique tangy flavor to steak, it’s important to be mindful of its sodium content. Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce contains 65 milligrams of sodium per teaspoon, which can quickly add up if you’re generous with your pouring. Additionally, Worcestershire sauce often contains anchovies, making it unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans.
4. HP Sauce
HP Sauce, a British favorite, is another steak sauce that’s high in sodium. One tablespoon of HP Sauce contains 210 milligrams of sodium, along with added sugars and preservatives. While it may add a tasty kick to your steak, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
5. Bull’s-Eye Original Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce is a popular choice for dressing up steaks, but many store-bought varieties are loaded with sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Bull’s-Eye Original Barbecue Sauce, for example, contains 12 grams of sugar per serving, along with high fructose corn syrup and caramel color. Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues, so it’s best to choose barbecue sauces with lower sugar content or make your own at home.
6. Jack Daniel’s Steak Sauce
Jack Daniel’s Steak Sauce may sound tempting, especially for fans of the famous whiskey brand, but it’s not the healthiest option. This sauce contains 280 milligrams of sodium per tablespoon, along with high fructose corn syrup and caramel color. While it may add a rich flavor to your steak, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
7. Kraft Steak Sauce
Kraft Steak Sauce is another popular choice for dressing up steaks, but it’s high in sodium and contains added sugars. One tablespoon of Kraft Steak Sauce contains 280 milligrams of sodium and 2 grams of sugar, along with caramel color and preservatives. If you’re watching your sodium intake or trying to cut back on sugar, it’s best to steer clear of this sauce.
8. Moore’s Original Marinade
While marinades can add flavor and tenderness to your steak, many store-bought varieties are packed with unhealthy ingredients. Moore’s Original Marinade, for example, contains 310 milligrams of sodium per tablespoon, along with high fructose corn syrup and caramel color. It’s best to opt for homemade marinades made with fresh ingredients to avoid these unnecessary additives.
9. Peter Luger Old Fashioned Sauce
Peter Luger Old Fashioned Sauce is a popular choice for steak lovers, but it’s not the healthiest option. This sauce contains 230 milligrams of sodium per tablespoon, along with added sugars and preservatives. While it may add a savory flavor to your steak, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
In conclusion, while store-bought steak sauces may add flavor and excitement to your steak dinner, it’s important to be mindful of their ingredients and nutritional content. Many of these sauces are high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy additives, which can undermine the health benefits of your meal. When possible, opt for homemade sauces made with fresh ingredients, or choose store-bought options with lower sodium and sugar content. By making more informed choices, you can enjoy your steak dinner without compromising your health.
