Mustard is a popular condiment that adds flavor to sandwiches, hot dogs, pretzels, and various other foods. However, traditional yellow mustard can be high in sodium. For people watching their salt intake, choosing a low-sodium mustard is important.
In this article, we will compare the sodium content of various mustards to determine which has the least amount of sodium per serving. We will look at popular yellow mustards, Dijon mustards, honey mustards, and whole grain mustards. Understanding the sodium content will help you choose the healthiest mustard option for your diet.
Yellow Mustard
Yellow mustard is the most common and popular type of mustard in the United States. It has a mild flavor and bright yellow color. The ingredients typically include mustard seeds, vinegar, water, turmeric, and salt. Here is a comparison of the sodium content in popular yellow mustard brands:
| Brand | Sodium Per Serving |
|---|---|
| French’s Classic Yellow | 190mg |
| Heinz Yellow | 150mg |
| Great Value Yellow | 160mg |
| Plochman’s Yellow | 170mg |
As you can see, most popular yellow mustards contain between 150-190mg sodium per serving (about 1 tablespoon). Heinz has the lowest at 150mg per serving.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon mustard originated in Dijon, France. It has a pale yellow color and a tangy, spicy flavor from white wine and additional seasonings. Dijon contains less sodium than traditional yellow mustard:
| Brand | Sodium Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Grey Poupon Dijon | 150mg |
| Maille Dijon | 170mg |
| Stonewall Kitchen Dijon | 150mg |
Grey Poupon and Stonewall Kitchen Dijon are the lowest at 150mg sodium per serving.
Honey Mustard
Honey mustard combines yellow mustard with honey for a sweet flavor. It is commonly used as a sandwich spread or dipping sauce. Here are the sodium levels:
| Brand | Sodium Per Serving |
|---|---|
| French’s Honey | 160mg |
| Ken’s Honey | 140mg |
| Great Value Honey | 160mg |
| Stonewall Kitchen Honey | 140mg |
Ken’s Honey Mustard and Stonewall Kitchen Honey Mustard have the least sodium at 140mg per serving.
Whole Grain Mustard
Whole grain mustard contains visible mustard seeds and has a coarse, spicy flavor. It also tends to be lower in sodium:
| Brand | Sodium Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Grey Poupon Whole Grain | 160mg |
| Maille Whole Grain | 125mg |
| Stonewall Kitchen Whole Grain | 140mg |
Maille has the lowest amount of sodium per serving at 125mg.
Spicy Brown Mustard
Spicy brown mustard has a sharper, more pungent flavor. It contains less sodium than yellow mustard:
| Brand | Sodium Per Serving |
|---|---|
| French’s Spicy Brown | 130mg |
| Gulden’s Spicy Brown | 150mg |
French’s Spicy Brown has the lowest sodium at 130mg per serving.
Conclusion
After comparing the sodium content of popular mustard varieties and brands, Maille Whole Grain Dijon Mustard contains the least amount of sodium per serving at 125mg.
Ken’s Honey Mustard and Stonewall Kitchen Honey Mustard are also low at 140mg per serving. For yellow mustard, Heinz and French’s Spicy Brown have among the lowest sodium levels.
Tips for Choosing a Low Sodium Mustard
– Opt for whole grain Dijon mustard, which tends to be lower in sodium than yellow mustard. Maille is the lowest.
– Honey mustard and spicy brown mustard also tend to have less sodium than regular yellow mustard. Look for options from Ken’s, Stonewall Kitchen, or French’s.
– Read nutrition labels and compare sodium content. Choose brands with 140mg of sodium or less per serving.
– Look for low sodium or reduced sodium options within major mustard brands.
– Use mustard sparingly or dilute with water to reduce sodium intake.
– Make your own mustard at home with just mustard powder, water, vinegar, and seasonings to control sodium.
Choosing a low sodium mustard allows you to add flavor without excessive salt. Consider the sodium content and opt for whole grain Dijon, honey mustard, or specific low sodium brands to reduce your intake.