APPLEGATE Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage scores 51/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its **moderate protein content** balanced against **elevated sodium and processing level**.
FoodScore for this product is 51/100 (Decent).
It offers 15.25g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
A serving contains 610.17mg of sodium, which is a notable concern.
This product is NOVA class 3 (processed), unlike a home-cooked alternative.
Consider pairing with fiber-rich foods to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +4 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
15.25g
31% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.4g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
610.17mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15.3g)+10
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.4g)-2
Sodium (610.2mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 51
APPLEGATE Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage receives a FoodScore of 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product provides a meaningful amount of protein, with 15.25g per 100g, which is a beneficial component for satiety and muscle maintenance. However, several factors contribute to penalties. The product contains 3.4g of added sugar per 100g, primarily from "HONEY" and "DRIED APPLES" which, while natural sources, still contribute to the added sugar total according to dietary guidelines. Additionally, the sodium content is 610.17mg per 100g, which is considered high and can be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake. As a NOVA class 3 food, it is categorized as processed, incurring a penalty due to its formulation with multiple ingredients and processing steps, distinguishing it from a home-cooked version using whole ingredients. While the product highlights "CHICKEN NEVER ADMINISTERED ANTIBIOTICS OR FED ANIMAL BY-PRODUCTS," this claim relates to animal welfare and production practices rather than direct nutritional content, and thus does not directly impact the FoodScore calculation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate naturals chicken & apple sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Protein Intake
This APPLEGATE chicken sausage is a good source of protein, providing 15.25g per 100g. Adequate protein intake is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including protein in meals can also contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. This makes it a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their daily protein consumption, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food item, this sausage offers convenience for quick meal preparation. Its pre-cooked nature means it can be heated and served rapidly, making it a practical choice for busy individuals or families. While convenience foods should be balanced with whole, unprocessed options, this product can fit into a varied diet as a time-saving protein source. It can be easily incorporated into breakfasts, lunches, or dinners.
Source of Leaner Protein
Compared to some traditional pork sausages, this chicken and apple variety generally offers a leaner protein profile. With 11.86g total fat and 3.39g saturated fat per 100g, it can be a suitable option for those monitoring their fat intake. Choosing leaner protein sources can be part of a heart-healthy dietary pattern. The use of chicken as the primary ingredient contributes to this characteristic.
APPLEGATE Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage scores 51/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its moderate protein content balanced against elevated sodium and processing level.
How to eat it
Applegate Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage is commonly consumed as a breakfast item, often alongside eggs or toast, or as a quick addition to lunch or dinner. A typical serving is three links (59g). Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other foods.
To create a more balanced meal, pair these sausages with fiber-rich vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.
Consider cutting the links into smaller pieces and adding them to a whole-grain pasta dish or a salad to distribute the protein across a larger meal.
If you are monitoring sodium, balance this product with low-sodium sides such as unsalted rice or fresh fruit.
Portion control is key; stick to the recommended serving size of three links to manage intake of sodium and added sugars.
Use these sausages as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily staple, prioritizing minimally processed protein sources for most meals.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals sensitive to sodium should be aware that this product contains 610.17mg of sodium per 100g. While the ingredient list is relatively straightforward, containing "CHICKEN, DRIED APPLES, WATER, HONEY, SALT, SPICES, PARSLEY," the presence of added sugar from honey and dried apples** should be noted by those managing blood sugar levels. There are no declared major allergens beyond the chicken itself, but always check the label for the most current information. The product is free from common artificial additives like colors or preservatives, which is a positive aspect for those avoiding such ingredients. However, as a processed meat product, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Is APPLEGATE Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage a healthy choice?
This APPLEGATE sausage scores 51/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It provides a good amount of protein, but also contains notable levels of sodium and some added sugar. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and how frequently it's consumed. It can fit into a balanced diet when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does APPLEGATE Naturals Chicken & Apple Sausage compare to other breakfast sausages?
Compared to some traditional pork breakfast sausages, this APPLEGATE product generally has a lower saturated fat content due to being chicken-based. However, its sodium content of 610.17mg per 100g is comparable to or higher than some alternatives, such as certain Jimmy Dean pork sausages. Always check the nutrition facts label for specific comparisons, as values can vary widely between brands and formulations.
What does 'Chicken Never Administered Antibiotics' mean?
This claim means the chickens used for the sausage were not given antibiotics during their lifetime. This is a production practice that many consumers value, but it does not directly alter the nutritional content of the chicken itself. It speaks to animal welfare and agricultural practices rather than the macronutrient or micronutrient profile of the final product.
How much of this sausage can I eat daily?
There isn't a strict daily limit, but due to its sodium content (610.17mg per 100g), it's best consumed in moderation. The recommended serving size is three links (59g). For a balanced diet, prioritize a variety of protein sources, including lean meats, poultry, fish, legumes, and plant-based options, rather than relying solely on processed meat products.
Are the 'DRIED APPLES' a significant source of added sugar?
Yes, "DRIED APPLES" contribute to the 3.4g of added sugar per 100g in this product, alongside "HONEY." While dried fruit contains natural sugars, when added to a product like sausage, they are counted as added sugars according to USDA guidelines. This is a factor to consider if you are monitoring your sugar intake.