Best Sugar Free Ketchup for Diabetics: Tasty Low-Carb Alternatives
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Table of Contents
Looking for a diabetic-friendly ketchup that won’t spike your blood sugar? Discover the best sugar free ketchup options – from Heinz to niche brands – that deliver classic taste with no added sugars. Enjoy your favorite condiments guilt-free with these low-carb, keto-friendly ketchup brands.
Why Go Sugar-Free with Ketchup?
If you’re newly diagnosed with diabetes like I was, switching to a sugar free ketchup made a huge difference. That’s where sugar free ketchup comes in — it delivers the flavor you love without the sugar spike. Regular ketchup is often loaded with sugar – a 20 oz bottle can contain about ⅔ cup of sugar【10†L177-L185}. That’s ~4g of sugar per tablespoon【3†L75-L83}, which can be problematic if you’re managing diabetes.
I love ketchup, but I don’t love the hidden sugars that come with it. For context, traditional ketchup packs a surprising amount of sugar (it’s basically like sprinkling sugar on your fries!). For someone with diabetes (or anyone watching carbs), those extra sugars can wreak havoc on blood glucose levels. That’s why sugar-free ketchup is a game-changer – you get all the tangy tomato goodness without the sugar rush.
Switching to a no-sugar-added ketchup is one of the easiest health swaps I’ve made. It lets me enjoy burgers, hot dogs, and low-carb fries without the guilt. Plus, many of these sugar-free versions taste so close to the real thing that I hardly notice a difference. In fact, some reviewers note they “can barely tell the difference” in flavor compared to regular ketchup. It’s ketchup without the compromise.
How do they do it? Instead of corn syrup or sugar, these ketchups use alternative sweeteners or natural ingredients. Some use stevia or sucralose, others use monk fruit, xylitol, or even real vegetables for sweetness. The result: the familiar ketchup taste with a fraction of the carbs. (Pro tip: always check the label – ingredients can change. For example, Heinz’s no-sugar ketchup had versions with sucralose vs. stevia, so it pays to read the fine print.)
Below I’ve rounded up my favorite diabetic-friendly, no-sugar-added ketchups. I’ll share key features, pros, cons, and what each is “best for,” so you can find the perfect fit for your taste and diet. Let’s dive into the delicious world of sugar-free ketchup!
Quick Comparison Table: Top Sugar-Free Ketchup Brands
To help you decide at a glance, here’s a quick comparison of our top picks:
Product | Price Range | Rating (Amazon) | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Heinz No Sugar Added Ketchup (13 oz) | ~$3 – $4 | ★★★★☆ (4.7/5) | Classic ketchup flavor |
G Hughes Sugar Free Ketchup (13 oz) | ~$4 – $6 | ★★★★½ (4.5/5) | Low-carb/keto diets |
365 by Whole Foods Organic No Sugar (16.6 oz) | ~$3 – $4 | ★★★★☆ (4.0/5) | Organic & clean ingredients |
True Made Foods No Sugar Ketchup (18.5 oz) | ~$5 – $8 | ★★★★☆ (4.6/5) | Natural veggie-sweetened |
Nature’s Hollow Sugar Free Ketchup (12 oz) | ~$6 | ★★★★☆ (4.1/5) | Xylitol-sweetened (low glycemic) |
Mrs. Taste Sugar Free Ketchup (12 oz) | ~$6 – $7 | ★★★☆ (3.8/5) | Zero-calorie & zero-sodium needs |
Prices are approximate. Ratings are based on Amazon averages (as of writing). Best For is my take on each ketchup’s standout use case.
Best Sugar-Free Ketchup Options (Detailed Reviews)
1. HHeinz No Sugar Added – A Classic Sugar Free Ketchup
Heinz’s version of sugar free ketchup really nailed the classic taste. If you want a sugar free ketchup that fits keto macros, G Hughes is a top pick. Heinz is the classic ketchup brand we all grew up with, and their No Sugar Added version lives up to the name. It delivers that thick, rich tomato taste Heinz is known for, but with 75% less sugar than regular ketchup. Per tablespoon, it’s about 10 calories, 2g of carbs, and only 1g of sugar (from tomatoes) – a huge improvement over the 4g in the standard recipe.

Features:
- No added sugar (uses alternative sweetener)
- Thick & rich classic flavor
- 75% less sugar than regular
- 10 calories per serving
- Widely available in stores
Pros:
- Tastes almost identical to classic Heinz
- Family-friendly flavor (picky eaters won’t notice)
- Budget-friendly price
- Available in most grocery stores
- Diabetic- and keto-friendly (1g sugar per Tbsp)
Cons:
- Contains sucralose in some versions (check label)
- Small bottle (13 oz goes fast)
- Not organic (if that matters to you)
- Contains some sodium (130mg per Tbsp)
- Only comes in one flavor (no spicy variety)
Best For: Classic ketchup flavor. This is the go-to everyday ketchup for diabetics or low-carb eaters who want the same taste as “normal” ketchup. In my experience, you can put this on the table at a BBQ and no one will know the difference.
I personally love that Heinz kept the taste so true to the original. One Target reviewer (whose family has diabetics) said “the flavor is just as rich and tangy as the original, but without added sugar”. The only complaint you might have is the bottle could be bigger – I go through it quickly! (Wish Heinz would make a jumbo size, because this stuff is a staple in my kitchen.) On the upside, it’s affordable and easy to find. If you’re new to sugar-free ketchups, Heinz is a perfect starting point.
2. G Hughes Sugar Free Ketchup (13 oz)
G Hughes of sugar free ketchup really nailed the classic taste. G Hughes Sugar Free Ketchup has developed a bit of a cult following in the low-carb community – and I’m one of its fans. This ketchup is ultra low-carb: about 5 calories, 1g total carbs, and 0g sugar per tablespoon. It’s sweetened with sucralose and thickened with a touch of cornstarch, giving it a traditional ketchup consistency and taste without any sugar.

Features:
- 0g sugar, 1g net carb per serving
- Sweetened with sucralose (Splenda)
- Gluten-free and preservative-free
- Comes in bottles or multi-pack sets
- Guilt-free condiment (keto-approved)
Pros:
- Very low carb count (keto dieters rejoice)
- Taste is surprisingly close to regular ketchup
- No weird aftertaste (for most people)
- Readily available at Walmart and online
- Often sold in multi-packs for convenience
Cons:
- Contains sucralose (an artificial sweetener some avoid)
- Has cornstarch (minimal, but purists may care)
- Not organic
- Slightly thinner texture than Heinz
- A bit pricier than store-brand ketchup
Best For: Low-carb and keto diets. If you’re watching net carbs like a hawk, G Hughes is one of the lowest around (1g per serving).
I first heard about G Hughes from a fellow low-carb blogger who swore it was the best. In fact, Kalyn (of Kalyn’s Kitchen) said she switched from Heinz to G Hughes and loves that it has “only one gram of sugar per tablespoon… and the flavor is great”. I tend to agree – the flavor is a touch less tangy than Heinz, but still tomato-forward and satisfying. It doesn’t taste “diet” at all.
One thing to note: because it uses sucralose, some people on clean-eating plans might prefer more natural sweeteners. But in terms of blood sugar impact, this ketchup has never caused me any glucose spikes. It’s a solid choice for diabetics aiming to keep carbs low. I keep a bottle in my fridge for when I make almond flour chicken tenders or turnip “fries.” G Hughes lets me dunk and savor without a second thought.
3. 65 by Whole Foods Market Organic No Sugar Added Ketchup (16.6 oz)
If organic ingredients are your priority, the 365 by Whole Foods Market No Sugar Added Ketchup is a fantastic option. This ketchup contains no added sweeteners at all – it’s simply made with organic tomatoes, vinegar, spices, and a thickener (organic cornstarch). Any sweetness comes naturally from tomatoes. The nutrition is about 10 calories, 2g carbs per tablespoon (with 0g added sugar). The flavor is more tomato-pure and less sweet than typical ketchup, but still tasty.

Features:
- USDA Organic certified
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives
- No added sugar or sweetener (100% tomato sweetness)
- Non-GMO certified
- 16.6 oz squeeze bottle
Pros:
- Fully organic ingredient list
- No artificial sweetener taste (since none are used)
- Clean, simple flavor (tomato-forward)
- Great for clean-eating and whole-food diets
- Decent value (about $3–4 per bottle)
Cons:
- Less sweet taste – a bit more tangy/bland to some
- Only available at Whole Foods or Amazon
- Thicker consistency can be slightly pulpy
- Shorter shelf-life once opened (no preservatives)
- Limited size options (one bottle size)
Best For: Organic and clean-eating folks. It’s the top pick if you want simple ingredients and trust the Whole Foods 365 brand for quality.
I use 365 Organic ketchup when I’m making recipes where I’ll add my own sweetener or spices (like a BBQ sauce or marinade). It’s a great base since it’s essentially a lightly seasoned tomato puree without sugar. Some people say it tastes like a slightly less sweet Heinz – which is a good thing if you prefer to really taste the tomatoes. One Amazon review put it nicely: “The ingredients are healthy. No bad ingredients… tastes very good!”.
Do keep in mind, since there’s no added sugar or sweet substitute, it’s not as sweet as typical ketchup. For me, that’s fine – especially when I pair it with something like a bunless cheeseburger, I appreciate the more natural tomato flavor. And if you need a bit of sweetness, you can always mix a pinch of stevia or monk fruit to your serving (I’ve done that!). Overall, 365’s ketchup proves you can have organic, sugar-free ketchup that still hits the spot.
4. True Made Foods No Sugar Added Ketchup (18.5 oz)
True Made Foods “Veggie Ketchup” gets its natural sweetness from real fruits and veggies (tomatoes, apples, carrots, squash, spinach) instead of added sugar.
True Made Foods took a totally different approach to sugar-free ketchup. Instead of using any artificial sweeteners, they pack their ketchup with real vegetables and fruits to add sweetness and depth. The ingredient list includes things like tomato puree, carrots, butternut squash, spinach, and apple – all adding natural sugars but no cane sugar or corn syrup at all. The result is a ketchup that has a bit of a veggie boost (you can feel slightly virtuous eating it) while still tasting very much like ketchup.
Each tablespoon is about 10 calories, 3g carbs, 2g natural sugar (from the apples and veggies). So it’s a tad higher in carbs than the others, but remember, it’s all natural sugar and still far less than regular ketchup.

Features:
- Sweetened naturally with apples and veggies (no added sugar)
- Ingredients like carrots, squash, spinach for vitamins****
- No artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols
- Thick, hearty texture
- Kid-approved taste (veggies well-hidden!)
Pros:
- All-natural ingredients (you recognize every item on the label)
- No artificial or high-intensity sweeteners
- Contains vegetable purees – adds a bit of nutrients/fiber
- Tastes close to regular ketchup, with a subtle earthy sweetness
- Paleo and Whole30 friendly (no added sugar at all)
Cons:
- Higher natural sugar (2g) and carbs (3g) per serving than some others
- Flavor slightly sweeter/fruitier (due to apples) – some notice a difference
- Pricier than Heinz (usually ~$5-7 per bottle)
- May be harder to find in local stores (often online or specialty stores)
- Shorter shelf life after opening (no preservatives, use within a couple months)
Best For: Those who want natural sweetness and sneaky veggies. It’s arguably the “healthiest” ketchup in terms of whole-food ingredients.
I was skeptical of a ketchup with carrots and squash in it, but True Made proved me wrong. The taste is remarkably close to a tangy tomato ketchup, maybe with a tiny hint of “something extra” – if I concentrate, I can pick up a whisper of the apple or carrot, but it’s very subtle. My friend’s kids devour it happily (and these kids normally run from veggies). As one reviewer noted, it’s a great way to get a ketchup that “even picky eaters will want to pour on”.
For diabetics, the total carb count is still low, but do remember those 2g sugars are real (fructose from fruit). I use True Made ketchup when I want that farm-to-table feeling – like on a turkey meatloaf or as a dip for sweet potato fries. It feels like a slightly more gourmet ketchup. And knowing I’m getting a few extra veggies in my sauce is a nice bonus! If you value real food ingredients and don’t mind a touch of natural sugar, True Made Foods is a stellar choice.
5. Nature’s Hollow HealthSmart Sugar Free Ketchup (12 oz)
Nature’s Hollow makes a HealthSmart Sugar Free Ketchup that is beloved by many low-carb folks, especially those who prefer more natural sweeteners. This ketchup is sweetened with xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol that has a low glycemic impact (diabetic-friendly). It contains no sugar, no high fructose corn syrup, and no artificial sweeteners like sucralose – so it’s a nice middle ground between “no added sugar” and “no artificial ingredients.” Xylitol gives it a pretty authentic sweetness without the glucose spike.
Nutritionally, it’s about 10 calories per tablespoon. The label might show ~6g carbs per Tbsp, but those are mostly from the xylitol (which doesn’t fully count towards net carbs for most people). The net carbs are roughly 1–2g after subtracting sugar alcohols. Importantly, it’s very low sodium as well – a rare feature for ketchup.

Features:
- Sweetened with xylitol (natural birch sweetener)
- No sugar added & no HFCS
- Low calorie (about 5–10 kcal per serving)
- Low sodium recipe
- Contains Vitamin C added
Pros:
- No artificial sweeteners (xylitol is naturally derived)
- Taste is very close to real ketchup (minimal aftertaste)
- Low sodium and low calorie
- Xylitol has a very low glycemic index (good for blood sugar control)
- Keto-friendly (net carbs about 1g per serving)
Cons:
- More expensive per ounce (often ~$6 for a 12 oz bottle)
- Xylitol can cause digestive upset if you consume a lot
- Toxic to pets – be careful, xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs (don’t let pups lick the plate)
- Bottles are small and glass (handle with care – some reports of breakage in shipping)
- Availability is mostly online or health stores
Best For: People who want a naturally sweetened ketchup with no aftertaste – great for diabetics and keto folks who dislike artificial sweeteners. Also a good fit if you’re watching sodium.
I really enjoy Nature’s Hollow ketchup because it genuinely tastes like classic ketchup without any odd “diet” flavor. The xylitol gives pure sweetness just like sugar would. One reviewer said “it’s the closest to the real deal in my opinion” and has no strong aftertaste. I concur – if you served this to me blind, I might not know it’s sugar-free. It’s also nice that it’s lower in salt, so if you’re managing blood pressure along with blood sugar, this ketchup fits the bill.
The main downsides are the price and the pet safety issue. I have a dog at home, so I’m extra cautious not to spill or leave any ketchup where she could sneak a taste, since xylitol is extremely poisonous to dogs. As long as you’re mindful of that, Nature’s Hollow is a fantastic healthy ketchup. It’s my pick when I’m doing a clean eating day and want to avoid any artificial ingredients. (Plus, the added Vitamin C is a tiny immune system bonus.)
6. Mrs. Taste Sugar Free Ketchup (12 oz)
Mrs. Taste Sugar Free Ketchup is like the overachiever of healthy ketchups: it’s zero calories, zero sugar, and even zero sodium! This Brazilian import has been making waves in the health food world because it manages to pull off tasting pretty close to regular ketchup while literally cutting all the usual bad stuff. It’s sweetened with a blend of natural fibers and possibly a bit of sucralose (and/or other sweeteners – the exact formula is proprietary), and thickened with fiber, which is why it boasts high fiber content. Essentially, they took out the sugar and salt and replaced them with ingredients that add flavor and body without calories or carbs.

Features:
- Zero calories per serving
- Zero sugar and zero sodium
- High in fiber (for a condiment)
- Gluten-free, Keto-friendly, Paleo-friendly
- Comes in a standard 12 oz squeeze bottle
Pros:
- Absolutely guilt-free (no sugar, no salt, no calories)
- Great option for those on strict diets (keto, paleo, even sodium-restricted diets)
- Surprisingly good taste for having no salt or sugar – “exactly like ketchup” according to some
- Thick, ketchup-like consistency
- Uses trusted ingredients (no HFCS, no artificial colors)
Cons:
- Flavor can be a bit different to sensitive palates (some detect a slight aftertaste or a less tangy profile)
- More expensive (~$6-7 a bottle, sometimes more online)
- Not widely available in grocery stores (often must buy online)
- Some reviewers say it’s not as “tomato-y” or that it tastes a bit artificial (opinion varies)
- The bottle branding is only in English/Portuguese – not an issue, but quirky
Best For: Strict dietary needs – If you need zero sugar and zero sodium, Mrs. Taste is hands-down the best. It’s ideal for diabetics who also watch salt intake, or anyone pursuing weight loss where every calorie counts.
I was genuinely impressed by Mrs. Taste ketchup. Given it has no salt or sugar, I expected it to taste like bland tomato paste, but it’s actually quite flavorful. The makers somehow achieved a good sweet-salty balance using alternative ingredients. It’s not identical to Heinz, but it’s close enough that on a bun with a burger, I doubt you’d notice much difference. A keto friend of mine said “you try it and you can’t tell it’s zero-calorie and zero-sugar!” – she puts it on everything now.
However, not everyone is a fan – I’ve seen a few reviews where people didn’t love the taste (one bluntly said “YUCK!!!”). Taste is subjective, especially with something as personal as ketchup. My take: if you require zero sugar/salt, this is a godsend product. If you don’t need that level of restriction, you might prefer one of the other options which have a more traditional flavor.
For me, I keep a bottle of Mrs. Taste around for when I’m hitting my nutrition goals hard. It feels amazing to slather on as much ketchup as I want, knowing it’s not adding any carbs, calories, or sodium. Think of it as the ultimate guilt-free ketchup. Just manage your expectations and you might be pleasantly surprised by how good it is given what’s (not) in it.
FAQ – Sugar-Free Ketchup & Diabetes
Q1: Is regular ketchup bad for diabetics?
A: Regular ketchup isn’t “bad” in small amounts, but it is high in sugar. A tablespoon of traditional ketchup has around 4 grams of sugar (often from added high-fructose corn syrup). This can add up quickly and spike blood sugar if you use a lot. For example, a standard 20 oz bottle contains about ⅔ cup of sugar in total. For someone with diabetes, that extra sugar is best avoided. Sugar-free ketchup, on the other hand, has 0–1 gram of sugar and is a much safer choice to keep blood glucose stable.
Q2: What is the best sugar free ketchup for diabetics?
A: The “best” sugar-free ketchup really depends on your taste and dietary needs. Heinz No Sugar Added is a top pick for most people – it tastes almost identical to regular ketchup and is very affordable. If you prefer an organic option, 365 by Whole Foods (Organic No Sugar Added) is great. For the absolute lowest carbs, G Hughes Sugar Free ketchup has only 1g carb. True Made Foods ketchup is fantastic if you value natural ingredients (sweetened with fruit & veggies). Nature’s Hollow is best if you want a natural sweetener like xylitol, and Mrs. Taste is ideal if you need zero sugar and zero sodium. In short, there’s no one-size-fits-all, but the six we covered are all among the best – it comes down to whether you prioritize taste, organic ingredients, ultra low carbs, etc. (I personally keep Heinz and True Made in my pantry at all times.)
Q3: Do sugar-free ketchups taste different?
A: They’ve gotten really good in recent years. Most sugar-free ketchups taste very close to the real thing. Heinz’s version, for instance, has been praised because you can “barely tell the difference” – it maintains that classic tangy-sweet balance. Some others have minor differences: ketchups with no sweetener (like 365 Organic) can be less sweet and more tomato-forward. Ones with alternative sweeteners like stevia or sucralose might have a slight aftertaste to some sensitive tasters, but it’s usually mild. Ketchups using veggies/fruits (True Made) might have a subtle richer or earthier note, but again, it’s still very ketchup-y. Overall, if you did a blind taste test, most people would find these sugar-free versions just as tasty on burgers or fries. In fact, many diabetics say they prefer the no-sugar versions now because they can enjoy it without worry.
Q4: What do they use instead of sugar in these ketchups?
A: It varies by brand:
- Artificial sweeteners: Heinz uses sucralose (Splenda) in some formulas, and G Hughes uses sucralose as well. These provide sweetness with no sugar or carbs.
- Natural zero-calorie sweeteners: Some use stevia or monk fruit extracts. For example, one version of Heinz was reported to use stevia. These are plant-derived sweeteners with no sugar.
- Sugar alcohols: Nature’s Hollow uses xylitol, which is a sugar alcohol – it tastes like sugar but has a negligible blood sugar impact (just be careful with pets and overeating it).
- No sweetener at all: 365 Organic relies on just the tomatoes (and perhaps a bit of apple cider vinegar) for natural sweetness, without adding any sweetening agent.
- Fruit and veggie purees: True Made Foods adds apple, carrot, and other veggie purees. These contribute natural sugars (fructose), but they’re “no added sugar” in the sense of no refined sugar.
- Fiber and spice blends: Mrs. Taste uses a clever blend of fibers and flavors, possibly with a tiny bit of sucralose or stevia, to mimic the sweet-salty taste without sugar or salt.
Each brand has its recipe, but the goal is the same: give that sweet tangy punch of ketchup without cane sugar.
Q5: Can I make my own sugar-free ketchup at home?
A: Absolutely! If you’re a DIY type, making keto or diabetic-friendly ketchup at home is quite easy and cost-effective. You basically simmer tomato paste or purée with vinegar, a sugar substitute (like stevia, erythritol, or allulose), plus spices (onion powder, garlic powder, salt, etc.). There are lots of recipes online – for example, some use allulose or monk fruit as the sweetener to get that classic taste. Homemade lets you control the sweetness and use ingredients you trust (like organic tomatoes, etc.). The only downside is it might not be as silky-smooth as store-bought, but an immersion blender can help with that. If you have the time, it’s worth trying – but with so many good commercial options now, you also can’t go wrong picking up one of the bottles we discussed!
Enjoy your favorite meals with these sugar-free ketchups – I know I am! As a diabetic foodie, discovering these alternatives has been a game changer. You get all the flavor and fun of ketchup, without sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. 🍅🎉 Happy dipping!
Sources: Heinz, G Hughes, and other product details from manufacturer labels and Amazon; nutritional stats and quotes from reviews; sugar content stats from Business Insider; Mrs. Taste info from official Q&A.
I always keep at least one bottle of sugar free ketchup in my fridge. With today’s options, enjoying sugar free ketchup is easy and delicious.