The APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **processed nature** and **sodium content**, despite offering a good amount of protein.
This APPLEGATE hot dog scores 47/100, indicating it's a decent choice but not optimal for regular consumption.
It provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
A significant concern is the 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it contains more processing than a home-cooked hot dog.
Consider pairing with whole grains and vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.3g)-6
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
The APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG receives a FoodScore of 47/100, 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 good source of protein, contributing 12.5g per 100g, which earned an 8-point bonus. It also provides a modest amount of Vitamin A, adding 2 points to its score. However, several factors reduce its overall score. The hot dog contains 6.25g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a 6-point penalty. Its sodium content is notably high at 642.86mg per 100g, resulting in a 2-point penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a 5-point penalty for its level of processing. Ingredients like celery powder are used as a curing agent, contributing to the sodium content. Compared to a home-cooked hot dog made with whole ingredients, this APPLEGATE product has a higher degree of processing and sodium, which impacts its score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate uncured big apple hot dog actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This APPLEGATE hot dog provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair. Protein is an essential macronutrient that also plays a role in satiety, helping you feel full and potentially reducing overall calorie intake. Including adequate protein in meals can support a balanced diet, especially for individuals with higher protein needs.
Contains Vitamin A
The product offers 20% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, an important micronutrient. Vitamin A is crucial for vision health, immune function, and cell growth. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily requirements when consumed as part of a varied diet. It's a beneficial addition to the nutritional profile of this processed meat product.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, this hot dog offers convenience for quick meals. It can be a practical option for busy individuals or families looking for a fast protein source. While convenience foods should be balanced with less processed options, having readily available protein can help ensure consistent nutrient intake, especially when time is limited.
The APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its processed nature and sodium content, despite offering a good amount of protein.
How to eat it
Hot dogs are typically consumed as a quick meal or snack, often grilled or boiled and served in a bun with condiments. A common portion is one hot dog, which can be part of a larger meal.
Pair with a whole-grain bun and a generous serving of vegetables, like sauerkraut or a side salad, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider cutting the hot dog into smaller pieces and adding it to a vegetable-rich stir-fry or pasta dish to extend the protein.
To manage sodium intake, choose low-sodium condiments and avoid adding extra salt to your meal.
Balance consumption with other protein sources throughout the week, such as lean meats, fish, beans, and lentils, to ensure a diverse nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
The APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG contains celery powder, which is often used as a natural source of nitrates for curing. While 'uncured' implies no added synthetic nitrates, the naturally occurring nitrates in celery powder can still convert to nitrites in the body. Individuals sensitive to processed meats or those monitoring their intake of nitrates and nitrites may wish to consider this. The product is also high in sodium, which could be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those on a sodium-restricted diet. There are no declared common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg in the ingredient list.
The APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG scores 47/100, which is 'Decent' on FoodScore. It provides a good amount of protein and some Vitamin A. However, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food (NOVA class 3) mean it's not an optimal choice for daily consumption. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does APPLEGATE hot dog compare to Oscar Mayer hot dogs?
Compared to many conventional hot dogs, such as those from Oscar Mayer, the APPLEGATE UNCURED BIG APPLE HOT DOG may offer a different ingredient profile, often emphasizing 'uncured' and 'no antibiotics ever' claims. Nutritionally, specific comparisons would require evaluating the exact SKU, but both are generally processed meat products high in sodium and saturated fat. Always check the nutrition label for direct comparison.
What does 'uncured' mean for this APPLEGATE hot dog?
For this APPLEGATE hot dog, 'uncured' means that no synthetic nitrates or nitrites were added during processing. Instead, the product uses celery powder, which naturally contains nitrates that convert to nitrites. This is a common practice in products marketed as 'uncured' or 'no added nitrates/nitrites'.
What is a reasonable portion size for this hot dog?
A reasonable portion size is typically one hot dog. Given its sodium content of 642.86mg per 100g, consuming multiple hot dogs in one sitting would significantly increase your daily sodium intake. It's best to enjoy it as part of a meal that includes plenty of vegetables and whole grains to balance the nutritional profile.
Can I eat this hot dog if I'm trying to reduce saturated fat?
This hot dog contains 6.25g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a notable amount. If you are actively trying to reduce your saturated fat intake, it would be advisable to consume this product in moderation. Consider balancing it with meals rich in unsaturated fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil, and prioritize lean protein sources.