Memphis Style Bar-B-Q Sauce

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Memphis Style Bar-B-Q Sauce scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Chemical Preservatives (Sodium Benzoate): Synthetic preservatives are UPF indicators.
• Artificial Colors (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 6): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Smoke Flavor, Natural Flavors): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Xanthan Gum): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Within Ketchup & Mustard, this product is more processed than about 77% of the 6,563 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Memphis Style Bar-B-Q Sauce's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Ketchup (Tomato Concentrat Made From Red Ripe Tomatoes, Distilled Vinegar, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Corn Syrup, Salt Spice, Onion Powder, Natural Flavoring), Brown Sugar, Sugar.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Citric Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: Ascorbic Acid.

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Citrus Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.