Americans’ Hot Sauce Preferences: A State-by-State Analysis

Hot sauce has become an integral part of American cuisine, with preferences varying significantly across different states. A recent report by Instacart, released in January 2025, provides detailed insights into the most popular hot sauces nationwide, highlighting regional favorites and consumption patterns.

National Hot Sauce Leaders

According to Instacart’s purchasing data from 2024, the top hot sauce brands in the United States are:

  1. Frank’s RedHot: Leading the nation in popularity, Frank’s RedHot was the top choice for hot sauce enthusiasts across the U.S.
  2. Huy Fong Foods’ Sriracha: This iconic sauce secured the second spot, reflecting its widespread appeal.
  3. Cholula: Known for its balanced flavor, Cholula ranked third among consumers.
  4. Burman’s Hot Sauce: This brand claimed the fourth position, indicating a strong following.
  5. Taco Bell’s Hot Sauce: In a notable rise, Taco Bell’s branded sauce secured the fifth spot, showcasing the influence of fast-food chains on condiment preferences.

Regional Preferences

While national trends provide an overarching view, diving into state-specific data reveals unique preferences:

  • Frank’s RedHot: Dominated in 29 states, including Georgia, New York, Illinois, and Washington, showcasing its broad appeal.
  • 505 Southwestern: Topped the charts in New Mexico, reflecting the state’s inclination towards local flavors.
  • Tapatio: Reigned supreme in California, indicating a preference for sauces with a Mexican influence.
  • Tabasco: Led in Hawaii, suggesting a taste for traditional, vinegar-based hot sauces.
  • Texas Pete: Favored in the Carolinas and Virginia, highlighting regional brand loyalty.
  • Louisiana Brand: Preferred in Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Arkansas, underscoring the South’s penchant for its own distinctive flavors.

Consumption Patterns

The report also shed light on the spiciest states based on per capita consumption:

  • New Mexico: Led the nation with an average of 31.9 ounces of hot sauce consumed per customer.
  • Alaska: Followed closely with 29.2 ounces per customer.
  • Colorado: Ranked third with 27.2 ounces per customer.

In contrast, Alabama reported the lowest consumption, averaging 16.6 ounces per customer.

Factors Influencing Preferences

Several elements contribute to these regional differences:

  • Culinary Traditions: Local cuisines heavily influence hot sauce choices. For instance, California’s preference for Tapatio aligns with its rich Mexican culinary heritage.
  • Brand Origin: States often favor brands that originate locally or regionally, fostering a sense of pride and loyalty.
  • Heat Tolerance: Cultural factors and exposure to spicy foods can affect a region’s average hot sauce consumption.

Conclusion

The diverse hot sauce preferences across the United States reflect the country’s rich tapestry of culinary traditions and regional tastes. As Americans continue to explore and embrace a variety of flavors, hot sauce remains a dynamic and integral component of the nation’s food culture. Whether it’s the tangy kick of Frank’s RedHot or the robust flavor of Tapatio, these condiments tell a story of local tastes and national trends.

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