The hot sauce market has exploded in recent years. From sriracha to Tabasco, Britons are consuming more and more spicy sauces.
Last year alone, Tesco sold 2.5 million more bottles of hot sauce – an increase of almost 20 percent – while sales of sriracha rose by nearly 65 percent. Today, the market is valued at over £200 million.
Health experts say that, compared to many other industrial sauces, hot sauces are often a better choice, but not all are created equal.
“Most hot sauces are relatively low in calories and can be a good nutritional supplement,” explains Jessica DeLuise, a culinary medicine specialist and dietitian.
“For those aiming for weight loss, we talk about 'flavor enhancers,' and hot sauces are ideal: lots of flavor, few calories.”
However, she warns that you should be careful with added salt and sugar, especially for people with cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, reflux or irritable bowel syndrome. For those taking anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids or aspirin, hot sauces can worsen digestive upset.
Are spicy foods good for health?
Various studies suggest that regularly consuming spicy foods may have modest health benefits. A 2021 analysis of over half a million adults found that those who regularly consumed spicy foods had a 12 percent lower risk of overall mortality and fewer deaths from heart disease.
Capsaicin – the active ingredient in chili peppers – has also been linked to a slight reduction in appetite, reducing about 70 calories per meal. However, experts stress that the benefits are limited and not for everyone.
Sauces that should be consumed with caution
Sriracha
Although much-loved, this fermented sauce can cause digestive problems in some people, due to preservatives, and its relatively high sugar and salt content.
Cloud23 Sweet Jalapeño (Brooklyn Beckham)
With 24g of sugar per 100g, this sauce behaves more like a sweet sauce than a classic hot sauce. Experts advise using it as a glaze or dip, not as an everyday condiment.
Lao Gan Ma (Chinese chili oil)
Although very popular, it is an oil-based sauce (mainly soybean oil) and very high in calories. A single serving can have around 190 calories. It is not recommended for frequent use.
Blue Dragon Sweet Chilli Sauce
Practically a sugar syrup with chili: about 55 g of sugar per 100 g. Should be reserved only for special occasions.
Extremely hot sauces (e.g. Psycho Juice Habanero)
With very high levels on the Scoville scale, these products can cause serious health problems, including severe vomiting, dehydration, and heart rhythm disturbances. They are not recommended for people with high blood pressure.
Better choices for health
Tabasco (Original Red)
A simple classic, very low in calories and sugar, with a minimal ingredient list. Salt is the main factor to consider, but it is usually used in small amounts.
Encona West Indian Original
Prepared with pepper puree, it contains little fiber and has a relatively good nutritional profile. Caution should be exercised by people with sensitive stomachs.
Frank's Red Hot
Based on vinegar and spices, it is low in calories and rich in flavor. It can be high in salt, so consumption should be moderate.
Nando's Peri-Peri (average)
A good compromise between taste and nutritional value: moderate calories, little sugar, but higher amounts of salt.
Tingly Ted's (Ed Sheeran)
Relatively low in calories, but with a significant sugar and salt content. Suitable in small quantities.
In conclusion, hot sauces can be a healthy choice to add flavor without too many calories – but only if you read the labels. Choose products with low sugar, simple ingredients, and use them in moderation. After all, even the best hot sauce loses its value when overdone. /GazetaExpress/
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