APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its significant protein content balanced against its high sodium and saturated fat levels.
This product received a FoodScore of 45/100 (Decent).
It provides a substantial 42.86g of protein per 100g serving.
A single serving contains 2000mg of sodium, which is a significant concern.
The NOVA class 2 rating indicates it is a processed culinary ingredient, similar to a home-cooked version.
Consider portion control due to the high sodium and saturated fat content.
Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
42.86g
86% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
2000mg
87% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (42.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Potassium, Iron)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (2000mg)-12
Why it scores 45
APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon achieves a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product is a strong source of protein, contributing 42.86g per 100g, which earned a +10 bonus. It also received a +4 bonus for notable micronutrient content, specifically 750mg of potassium (16% DV) and 2.14mg of iron (12% DV). Furthermore, its NOVA class 2 rating, indicating it's a processed culinary ingredient, contributed an +8 bonus for being minimally processed compared to ultra-processed foods. However, these benefits are offset by significant penalties. The product contains 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -15 penalty. The most substantial penalty, -12, comes from its high sodium content of 2000mg per 100g. While the product contains cane sugar, it is listed as less than 2% and contributes 0g of added sugar per 100g, avoiding an added sugar penalty. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product's convenience comes with a higher sodium load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate naturals sunday bacon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Protein
APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon is an excellent source of protein, providing 42.86g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, helping you feel full longer. Including adequate protein in your diet can support various bodily functions and contribute to maintaining a healthy body composition. This makes it a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Source of Essential Minerals
This product contributes to your intake of essential minerals, notably potassium and iron. With 750mg of potassium (16% DV) and 2.14mg of iron (12% DV) per 100g, it helps meet daily requirements for these vital nutrients. Potassium plays a role in maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure, while iron is crucial for oxygen transport and energy production. Incorporating foods rich in these minerals supports overall physiological health.
Minimally Processed Option
Classified as NOVA class 2, APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon is considered a processed culinary ingredient. This means it has undergone minimal processing, similar to how bacon would be prepared at home. The ingredient list is relatively short, featuring pork, water, sea salt, cane sugar, and cultured celery powder. This level of processing is generally preferred over highly ultra-processed foods, aligning with dietary guidelines that emphasize whole or minimally processed options.
APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its significant protein content balanced against its high sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
Bacon is commonly consumed as part of breakfast, often alongside eggs or pancakes, or incorporated into sandwiches and salads. A typical serving size is two pan-fried slices. Due to its flavor intensity, it can enhance meals, but its nutritional profile warrants mindful consumption.
Pair bacon with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast, avocado, or a large vegetable salad to balance the meal.
Use bacon as a flavor enhancer in dishes rather than the main protein source; crumble a small amount over roasted vegetables or soups.
Consider using a smaller portion than the suggested two slices to reduce intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Blot cooked bacon with a paper towel to remove some of the excess fat, which can slightly reduce its fat content.
Things to keep in mind
The primary nutritional concern with APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon is its high sodium content of 2000mg per 100g, which is a significant portion of the daily recommended limit. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The saturated fat content, at 14.29g per 100g, is also notable and should be considered within the context of your overall daily fat intake. The ingredient cultured celery powder is used as a natural source of nitrates for curing, which can be a point of consideration for some consumers, though it functions similarly to synthetic nitrates in terms of food preservation. No major allergens are declared on the label.
APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. While it is an excellent source of protein and provides some essential minerals, its high sodium and saturated fat content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a food to be eaten in large quantities daily.
How does APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon compare to other bacon brands?
Compared to many conventional bacon brands, APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon often has a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and sodium, but it emphasizes "natural" ingredients and the absence of artificial preservatives. For example, while Oscar Mayer Classic Bacon might have comparable sodium, APPLEGATE NATURALS uses cultured celery powder instead of synthetic nitrites. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is 'cultured celery powder' in the ingredients?
Cultured celery powder is a natural source of nitrates that is used in curing processes, similar to how synthetic nitrates are used in conventional bacon. It acts as a preservative and contributes to the characteristic color and flavor of cured meats. While natural, its function in the body is similar to that of synthetic nitrates.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bacon?
The suggested serving size is two pan-fried slices. However, given the high sodium (2000mg per 100g) and saturated fat (14.29g per 100g), it is advisable to consider consuming smaller portions or less frequently, especially if you are monitoring your intake of these nutrients. One slice might be a more appropriate portion for some individuals.
Can I eat this bacon if I'm trying to reduce processed foods?
APPLEGATE NATURALS Sunday Bacon is classified as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This category includes foods like oils, butter, sugar, and salt, which are used in cooking. While it is processed, it is less so than ultra-processed foods (NOVA class 4). If you are aiming to reduce ultra-processed foods, this product fits into a diet that includes minimally processed ingredients.