Your Ketchup Addiction Just Got A Whole Lot Healthier

Ketchup makes pretty much everything taste better. Lackluster fries? Ketchup. Scrambled eggs? Ketchup. Breakfast potatoes? Ketchup.

Just how healthy is everyone's favorite condiment, though? Sadly, many go-to brands probably aren't the most nutritious thing to drown your green beans in. The stuff contains high-fructose corn syrup (and regular corn syrup), which has similar problems to table sugar when consumed in excess. Some research has also linked HFCS specifically to diabetes and obesity.

Relax; it's not all bad news: "Classic ketchup has a lot of added sugar, which is something I recommend avoiding," says nutritionist Amanda Baker Lemein, RDN. "However, it does provide the antioxidant lycopene."

If you can't imagine Sunday brunch without diner ketchup and home fries, go for it, says Kelsie Knerr, RD. But if you want to keep your condiment game squeaky-clean at home, you might consider a new go-to.

Luckily, there are all sorts of options out there to satisfy your tomato-y cravings.

Lemein and Knerr both recommend looking carefully at labels to see which condiments and seasonings might contain hidden added sugar. If you crave a little sweetness, look for a bottle that uses natural sweeteners (like honey or dates) instead of the ultra-processed stuff.

One thing to look out for, though: artificial sweeteners like sucralose. Although these zero-calorie sweeteners may technically be considered safe in moderation, many nutritionists recommend proceeding with caution.

The next time you're craving a ketchup-covered omelet or overcooked your chicken breast (again...), opt for one of these nutritionist-approved ketchup brands.