Baken-ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins 1.5 Ounces
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins 1.5 Ounces receives a FoodScore of 20/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **very high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 20/100 (Avoid) for this Baken-Ets product.
Contains 50g of protein per 100g, a notable amount for a snack.
Very high in sodium, with 2707.14mg per 100g, exceeding daily recommendations.
This product is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, unlike whole-food snack alternatives.
Best consumed infrequently and in small portions due to its nutritional profile.
Scores -21 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
50g
100% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
2707.14mg
118% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (50g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (2707.1mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 20
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins 1.5 Ounces scores 20 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary drivers for this low score are its high sodium content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 2707.14mg of sodium per 100g, this product significantly contributes to daily sodium intake, far exceeding the recommended limits. It also contains 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a snack. The product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, a factor that incurs a significant penalty in the FoodScore system. While it does offer a substantial 50g of protein per 100g, earning a bonus, this is outweighed by the penalties from saturated fat, sodium, and its processing level. Ingredients like maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate, and artificial colors further contribute to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, which would typically be minimally processed and lower in sodium and saturated fat, this Baken-Ets product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in baken-ets hot 'n' spicy fried pork skins 1.5 ounces actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product provides a significant 50g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, particularly in a snack format, this product offers a concentrated source. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on this product for protein.
Zero Added Sugar
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins contain 0g of added sugar per 100g. This can be a beneficial aspect for individuals monitoring their added sugar intake, which is often a concern in many processed snacks. Avoiding added sugars aligns with dietary guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of chronic diseases. While the absence of added sugar is positive, other nutritional factors in this product warrant consideration.
Convenient Snack Option
As a packaged snack, this product offers convenience and portability, making it an easy option for on-the-go consumption. For those seeking a quick snack that is ready to eat, Baken-Ets provides a readily available choice. Its shelf-stability also adds to its convenience, allowing for easy storage and access without refrigeration. This can be useful in specific situations where other snack options are not available.
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins 1.5 Ounces receives a FoodScore of 20/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its very high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins are typically consumed directly from the bag as a savory snack. They are often eaten between meals or as part of a casual gathering. Due to their intense flavor and high sodium content, they are usually eaten in smaller portions than a full meal.
To mitigate the high sodium, pair with unsalted foods like fresh fruit or plain vegetables to balance your overall intake.
Consider portioning out a small amount into a bowl to avoid overconsumption directly from the bag.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack to limit intake of saturated fat and sodium.
For a more balanced snack, combine a small serving with a source of fiber, such as baby carrots or cucumber slices.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a very high amount of sodium, 2707.14mg per 100g, which is a significant concern for individuals managing blood pressure or at risk for cardiovascular disease. The presence of artificial colors like Red 40 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, and Blue 1 Lake may be a consideration for some consumers, particularly parents of children sensitive to food dyes. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is also listed, which some individuals report sensitivity to, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing. As a fried product, it contains a notable amount of saturated fat. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities to these ingredients should review the label carefully.
Is Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins healthy?
Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins received a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. This is largely due to its very high sodium content (2707.14mg per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides a substantial amount of protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a health-promoting food for regular consumption.
How does Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins compare to other savory snacks?
Compared to many other savory snacks like potato chips (e.g., Lay's Classic Potato Chips), Baken-Ets pork skins are significantly higher in protein (50g vs. ~4g per 100g) and have 0g of added sugar. However, they are also very high in sodium and saturated fat, often exceeding levels found in typical potato chips. Both are considered ultra-processed snacks, but their macronutrient profiles differ notably.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. In Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins, it likely functions as a flavor carrier or bulking agent for the spices and seasonings. While generally recognized as safe, it is a processed ingredient that can contribute to the overall ultra-processed nature of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins?
Given the high sodium (2707.14mg per 100g) and saturated fat content, a reasonable portion size would be significantly smaller than the entire 1.5-ounce bag. For most individuals, consuming only a small handful occasionally would be appropriate to minimize the intake of these nutrients. It is best to consider this product an infrequent treat rather than a regular snack.
Are there any allergens in Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins?
The ingredient list for Baken-Ets Hot 'n' Spicy Fried Pork Skins does not explicitly declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg. The primary ingredient is fried pork skins. However, individuals with severe allergies should always be cautious and may wish to contact the manufacturer for information regarding cross-contamination risks during processing.