APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE scores a very good 75/100, primarily due to its **favorable protein content** and **minimal processing**.
This product earns a FoodScore of 75/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile.
A notable strength is its 15.2g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
The primary nutritional concern is the 661.02mg of sodium per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA 2, meaning it is minimally processed, similar to home-cooked versions.
Consider pairing with fiber-rich foods to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +29 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
15.2g
30% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
661.02mg
29% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15.2g)+10
Healthy fat profile+10
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Sodium (661.0mg)-3
Why it scores 75
APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE achieves a FoodScore of 75/100, placing it in the 'very good' category. This score is largely driven by its strong protein contribution of 15.2g per 100g, which is a significant positive factor. The product also benefits from a healthy fat profile, with 13.59g total fat and only 3.39g saturated fat per 100g, and importantly, 0g trans fat. Its classification as NOVA 2 indicates it is a processed culinary ingredient, meaning it is less processed than many other breakfast sausage options, aligning closely with a home-cooked baseline. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily chicken and water, with cane sugar and spices making up less than 2%. The main deduction in its score comes from its sodium content, which is 661.02mg per 100g. While this is a common characteristic of many prepared meat products, it is a factor to consider for overall dietary sodium intake. Compared to a home-cooked version, this product offers convenience with a similar level of processing and a comparable nutrient profile, though home preparation allows for precise control over sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate naturals chicken & sage breakfast sausage, chicken & sage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This APPLEGATE NATURALS product provides 15.2g of protein per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a breakfast item. Protein is essential for the maintenance and repair of muscle tissue, and it also plays a key role in satiety, helping you feel full and potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. Including a good source of protein at breakfast can contribute to stable energy levels and support a balanced diet.
Lower in Saturated Fat Compared to Some Alternatives
With 3.39g of saturated fat per 100g, this chicken sausage offers a more favorable fat profile than many traditional pork or beef sausages. Reducing saturated fat intake is often recommended for cardiovascular health. Choosing leaner protein sources like chicken can be a simple way to manage dietary fat quality without sacrificing flavor or convenience, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Minimally Processed Formulation
The APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE is classified as NOVA 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient. This means it undergoes less processing than many highly processed breakfast meats, often containing fewer additives and more recognizable ingredients. Opting for minimally processed foods can be a beneficial strategy for overall dietary quality, as these products tend to retain more of their inherent nutritional value.
APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE scores a very good 75/100, primarily due to its favorable protein content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
Breakfast sausage is typically consumed as part of a morning meal, often alongside eggs, toast, or pancakes. A common portion is 3 links, providing a convenient source of protein to start the day. Be mindful of pairings to ensure a balanced nutritional intake.
Pair with fiber-rich vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or a side of whole-grain toast to add dietary fiber.
Combine with eggs and a piece of fruit for a well-rounded breakfast that includes protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Consider using these links in a breakfast burrito or scramble to incorporate more vegetables and reduce reliance on high-sodium condiments.
To manage sodium intake, balance this product with low-sodium foods throughout the rest of your day.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains 661.02mg of sodium per 100g. While not excessively high for a prepared meat product, individuals monitoring their sodium intake, particularly those with hypertension or other cardiovascular concerns, should be mindful of portion sizes and balance with low-sodium foods throughout the day. The ingredient list is relatively clean, with cane sugar present in small amounts (less than 2%), which is unlikely to significantly impact blood sugar levels for most individuals. There are no common allergens explicitly declared beyond the chicken itself, and no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are listed. Overall, for most healthy adults, this product presents few significant cautions when consumed in moderation.
Is APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE healthy?
This product scores a very good 75/100 on FoodScore. It provides a good source of protein (15.2g per 100g) and has a favorable fat profile. While its sodium content is a consideration, its overall nutritional composition and minimal processing make it a nutritionally sound choice when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does APPLEGATE NATURALS compare to other breakfast sausages?
Compared to many traditional pork breakfast sausages, APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE often has lower saturated fat content due to being made from chicken. For example, some brands like Jimmy Dean pork sausage links may have higher saturated fat and sodium. This product also benefits from a simpler ingredient list and NOVA 2 classification, indicating less processing than many alternatives.
What is 'cane sugar' doing in this product?
The cane sugar in APPLEGATE NATURALS CHICKEN & SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE is listed as less than 2% of the ingredients. In savory products like sausage, small amounts of sugar are often used to enhance flavor balance and can contribute to browning during cooking. It is not present in an amount that contributes to added sugar penalties on FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sausage?
The declared serving size is 3 links, which provides a good amount of protein. For most individuals, sticking to this recommended serving size is appropriate. If you are monitoring sodium intake, you might consider consuming fewer links or balancing with very low-sodium foods for the rest of your meal or day.
Can I eat this sausage if I am trying to reduce my fat intake?
Yes, with 13.59g total fat and 3.39g saturated fat per 100g, this chicken sausage is a leaner option compared to many pork-based breakfast sausages. It can fit into a diet focused on reducing fat intake, especially saturated fat, when consumed in appropriate portions and as part of a balanced meal plan.