APPLEGATE THE SUPER NATURAL UNCURED BEEF HOT DOG receives a FoodScore of 49/100 (Decent). Its primary nutritional driver is its protein content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
This APPLEGATE hot dog scores 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 14.31g of protein per 100g, a positive nutritional contribution.
A significant concern is the 785.71mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it differs from a home-cooked beef hot dog.
Consider portion control, as one hot dog contributes substantially to daily sodium intake.
Scores +3 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.31g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
785.71mg
34% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.3g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.8g)-3
Sodium (785.7mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 49
The APPLEGATE THE SUPER NATURAL UNCURED BEEF HOT DOG achieves a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of its nutritional components. On the positive side, it earns a bonus for its protein content, providing 14.31g per 100g, which contributes to satiety and muscle maintenance. However, several factors reduce its overall score. It incurs penalties for its saturated fat content, at 4.76g per 100g, which is a nutrient to monitor for heart health. The product also receives a penalty for its sodium level, at 785.71mg per 100g, a significant amount that can contribute to high blood pressure. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it is categorized as 'processed', which results in a penalty due to the degree of processing. Ingredients like celery powder are used for curing. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this APPLEGATE product contains higher sodium and is more processed, impacting its overall nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate the super natural uncured beef hot dog actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This APPLEGATE hot dog provides 14.31g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals can also help with satiety, making you feel fuller for longer. For example, pairing this hot dog with a whole-grain bun and vegetables can create a more balanced meal that leverages its protein content.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, this hot dog offers convenience for quick meals. It requires minimal preparation, making it a practical option for busy individuals or families. While it is a processed food, its ease of use can help in situations where time for cooking from scratch is limited. It can serve as a base for a meal, allowing you to add fresh ingredients around it to enhance its nutritional value, such as a large salad or roasted vegetables, to create a more complete meal structure.
Iron Contribution
This product contributes 1.71mg of iron per 100g, which is 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily iron requirements, particularly for individuals who may need to increase their intake. Combining it with vitamin C-rich foods, such as bell peppers or tomatoes, can enhance iron absorption.
APPLEGATE THE SUPER NATURAL UNCURED BEEF HOT DOG receives a FoodScore of 49/100 (Decent). Its primary nutritional driver is its protein content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
Hot dogs are commonly consumed as a quick meal or snack, often grilled or pan-fried. A typical serving is one hot dog, frequently served in a bun with condiments. Be mindful of portion sizes and the nutritional impact of added toppings.
Pair with a whole-grain bun and a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like sauerkraut, onions, or bell peppers to add fiber and micronutrients.
To manage sodium intake, consider using low-sodium condiments and limiting other high-sodium foods in the same meal.
Slice and add to a salad or stir-fry to incorporate protein into a vegetable-heavy dish, reducing the overall hot dog portion per meal.
Consider this as an occasional meal component rather than a daily staple, due to its processed nature and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
This APPLEGATE hot dog contains sea salt and celery powder, which contribute to its sodium content. While 'uncured' hot dogs often use celery powder as a natural source of nitrates, it still functions similarly to traditional curing agents. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should be mindful of the 785.71mg of sodium per 100g. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list beyond beef itself. This product is generally suitable for most healthy adults in moderation, but its processed nature and sodium level mean it should not be a primary protein source.
Is APPLEGATE THE SUPER NATURAL UNCURED BEEF HOT DOG healthy?
This APPLEGATE hot dog has a FoodScore of 49/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It offers a good amount of protein (14.31g per 100g) but is also high in sodium (785.71mg per 100g) and contains saturated fat. Its NOVA class 3 designation means it is a processed food. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does APPLEGATE compare to other hot dog brands?
Compared to many conventional hot dog brands like Oscar Mayer, APPLEGATE often emphasizes ingredients like 'uncured beef' and the absence of artificial ingredients. However, nutritionally, many hot dogs, including this APPLEGATE SKU, share common characteristics such as being sources of protein, but also being higher in sodium and saturated fat. Always check the specific nutrition label for direct comparisons.
What does 'uncured' mean for this hot dog?
The term 'uncured' on this APPLEGATE hot dog means that synthetic nitrates or nitrites were not added. Instead, the product uses natural sources of nitrates, such as celery powder, which are converted to nitrites during processing. From a nutritional and food safety perspective, these naturally derived nitrites function similarly to synthetic ones in preserving the meat and contributing to its flavor and color.
What is a reasonable portion size for this hot dog?
The serving size is one hot dog. Given its sodium content of 785.71mg per 100g, consuming just one hot dog can contribute significantly to your daily sodium intake. For most adults, it's advisable to limit consumption to one hot dog per meal and balance it with low-sodium foods throughout the day to stay within recommended daily limits.
Can children eat this APPLEGATE hot dog?
Children can generally eat this APPLEGATE hot dog in moderation. However, due to its sodium content, it's important to consider their smaller body size and lower daily sodium recommendations. Ensure it is cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking hazards. Pairing it with plenty of fruits and vegetables is recommended to balance the meal.