FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentpreparedAPPLEGATE· 2 LINKS

APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE, CHICKEN & MAPLE

APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its protein content is a positive, but the sodium level and processed nature contribute to a moderate score.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 51/100, indicating a Decent nutritional profile.
  • It provides 15.6g of protein per 100g, a notable strength for satiety.
  • A significant concern is the 600mg of sodium per 100g, which is relatively high.
  • As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it differs from a home-cooked, whole-ingredient version.
  • Consider pairing with fiber-rich foods to balance the meal's nutritional impact.
  • Scores +5 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
15.6g
31% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.55g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
600mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15.6g)+10
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.4g)-2
Sodium (600mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 51

APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE achieves a FoodScore of 51/100, categorized as Decent. This score reflects a balance of positive and less favorable nutritional aspects. On the positive side, the product offers a substantial 15.6g of protein per 100g, contributing a bonus to its score and supporting satiety. However, several factors reduce its overall rating. The product contains 4.44g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a penalty. More significantly, the sodium content is 600mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount and incurs another penalty. While the added sugar content is relatively low at 1.55g per 100g, the presence of evaporated cane syrup and maple syrup as sweeteners contributes to its processed nature. As a NOVA class 3 food, it is considered processed, which results in a penalty compared to a home-cooked breakfast sausage made from whole ingredients. This classification reflects the extent of industrial processing involved in its production, moving it further from its minimally processed counterparts.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in applegate chicken & maple breakfast sausage, chicken & maple actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Protein Intake

This APPLEGATE product provides 15.6g of protein per 100g, which can be a valuable contribution to daily protein needs. Adequate protein intake is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it also plays a key role in satiety, helping individuals feel full and satisfied after a meal. Including a protein source like this sausage can help create a more balanced breakfast, especially when combined with other nutrient-dense foods.

Convenient Meal Component

For individuals seeking a quick and easy breakfast option, these pre-cooked sausages offer convenience and time-saving benefits. They can be prepared rapidly, making them suitable for busy mornings. While a home-cooked version might offer a different nutritional profile, this product serves as a practical choice when time is limited, allowing for a warm meal without extensive preparation.

Source of Iron

The APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE contains 0.8mg of iron per 100g, contributing 4% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to overall iron intake, particularly when consumed as part of a varied diet that includes other iron-rich foods.

How to eat it

APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE is typically consumed as part of a breakfast meal. A common portion is 2 links, which is 72g. It can be quickly heated and served, offering a convenient protein component to start the day. Be mindful of pairings to create a nutritionally complete meal.

Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast, oatmeal, or a side of fruit to add dietary fiber, which is absent in the sausage.
Combine with vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers in an omelet to boost vitamin and mineral intake and add volume to the meal.
Consider using these sausages in moderation due to their sodium content, especially if you are monitoring your sodium intake.
To balance the meal, include a source of healthy fats, such as avocado or a small handful of nuts, alongside your sausage.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains evaporated cane syrup and maple syrup, which are sources of added sugars. While the overall added sugar content is low at 1.55g per 100g, individuals managing blood sugar levels should be aware of these ingredients. The sodium content of 600mg per 100g is relatively high, which could be a concern for individuals with hypertension or those advised to limit sodium intake. There are no major allergens explicitly declared beyond the chicken itself, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list. The product is also classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing minimally processed options.

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Reader questions
Is APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE healthy?
This product scores 51/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers a good amount of protein (15.6g per 100g) but also contains 600mg of sodium per 100g and is classified as a processed food. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and how it fits into your daily nutrient goals.
How does APPLEGATE CHICKEN & MAPLE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE compare to other breakfast sausages?
Compared to some other breakfast sausages on the market, such as Jimmy Dean's, APPLEGATE often emphasizes fewer artificial ingredients. However, specific nutritional comparisons would require checking individual product labels for metrics like sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar, as these can vary significantly across brands and formulations.
What is 'evaporated cane syrup' in the ingredients?
Evaporated cane syrup is a less-processed form of sugar derived from sugarcane. Nutritionally, it functions similarly to table sugar, providing calories and contributing to the product's overall sugar content. Its presence here, along with maple syrup, contributes to the product's flavor profile.
What is a recommended portion size for this sausage?
The declared serving size is 2 links, which is 72g. This portion provides 11.2g of protein and 432mg of sodium. Adhering to this portion size can help manage intake of sodium and saturated fat, especially when balancing with other foods in your meal.
Can I eat this product every day?
While this product can fit into a balanced diet, consuming it daily would mean a consistent intake of 600mg of sodium per 100g. For individuals monitoring sodium, it might be advisable to rotate protein sources and include options with lower sodium content to maintain a varied and balanced diet over time.

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Data & references