That bottle of Heinz in your fridge might seem harmless, but nutritionists are sounding the alarm. Most commercial ketchups start with tomato concentrate rather than fresh tomatoes, then get pumped with two teaspoons of sugar per serving—often from both high-fructose corn syrup and regular corn syrup. Do the math: a single bottle can contain over 30 tablespoons of hidden sugar.
The Sneaky Stuff:
Ever noticed vague terms like “natural flavors” or “spices” on the label? These umbrella terms can mask questionable additives. While the FDA considers them safe, health experts warn that daily ketchup use—especially for kids—may fuel sugar cravings, weight gain, and even blood pressure issues over time.
Healthier Swaps:
-
Opt for low-sugar or no-added-sugar versions
-
Use ketchup as a condiment, not a sauce flood
-
Whip up a quick homemade batch with real tomatoes, vinegar, and spices
Fun fact: In the 1800s, ketchup was actually a fermented fish sauce. Today’s sugar-loaded version might make you wish we’d stuck with the original. 🍅🚨