Diet Ratings
Standard ketchup contains 3-4g net carbs per tablespoon due to added sugars. Incompatible with strict keto carb limits.
Standard ketchup is plant-based (tomatoes, vinegar, spices). Most brands contain no animal products, though label verification is recommended.
Commercial ketchup contains refined sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and additives. Even sugar-free versions are processed condiments not available to ancestral humans.
High added sugar and processed ingredients. Minimal nutritional value. Contradicts Mediterranean emphasis on minimal processed foods and added sugars.
Made from tomatoes (plant), sugar, and additives. Violates carnivore diet on multiple levels: plant-derived, processed, high sugar content.
Standard ketchup contains added sugar, which is explicitly excluded on Whole30. Even 'no sugar added' versions often contain sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners.
Ketchup typically contains onion, garlic, and high-fructose corn syrup or excess sugar. Monash University confirms ketchup is high-FODMAP due to fructans (garlic/onion) and excess fructose.
Ketchup is high in added sugar (4g per tbsp) and sodium (160-190mg per tbsp). DASH limits added sugars and sodium. While tomatoes provide lycopene, the sugar and sodium content make it a condiment to use sparingly.
Ketchup is high-glycemic (added sugars) with minimal nutritional value. Incompatible with Zone's low-glycemic carb requirement. No meaningful protein or beneficial fat.
Most commercial ketchups contain high-fructose corn syrup or added sugars (4g per tablespoon), which are pro-inflammatory. They lack the antioxidant benefits of fresh tomatoes due to processing and added ingredients. Dr. Weil and anti-inflammatory guidance recommend avoiding added sugars.
Ketchup is low-fat and portion-friendly (1 tbsp = 15-20 cal), but contains 4g sugar per tablespoon with minimal nutritional value. GLP-1 patients should minimize added sugars to avoid blood sugar spikes and maintain satiety. Acceptable in very small amounts (1 tsp) as a condiment, but not recommended as a regular sauce.
Controversy Index
Score range: 1–8/10. Higher controversy = more disagreement between diets.