BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast scores 47/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content, despite offering a good amount of protein.
FoodScore: 47/100 (Decent), indicating it's an ultra-processed food.
Provides 17.86g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in sodium at 732.14mg per 100g, a significant penalty.
Contains 2.5g of added sugar per 100g, which is a moderate amount.
Best used in moderation as part of a balanced meal, not as a primary protein source.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.86g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
732.14mg
32% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (732.1mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, classifying it as 'Decent'. The primary factors influencing this score are its nutritional composition and processing level. This product is categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While it offers a substantial 17.86g of protein per 100g, earning a +10 bonus, its sodium content is notably high at 732.14mg per 100g, resulting in a -3 penalty. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite and sodium phosphate, common preservatives and texturizers in processed meats that contribute to this high sodium level. Additionally, there are 2.5g of added sugar per 100g from honey and sugar. Compared to a home-cooked turkey breast using whole ingredients, the BIRCHBERRY BISTRO product contains numerous additives and a higher sodium level, reflecting its processed nature.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in birchberry bistro, premium turkey breast, mesquite smoked, honey roasted, mesquite smoked, honey roasted actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This BIRCHBERRY BISTRO turkey breast provides 17.86g of protein per 100g, making it a good source of dietary protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including adequate protein in meals can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help manage appetite. This can be a convenient option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially when time for meal preparation is limited.
Low in Total Fat
With only 0.89g of total fat per 100g, this product is very low in fat. It contains no saturated or trans fats, which are types of fats often recommended to be limited in the diet. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, particularly those aiming for lower saturated fat consumption, this turkey breast can be a suitable choice. Its lean profile means it contributes minimal dietary fat to a meal.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and sliced product, BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It can be quickly added to sandwiches, salads, or wraps without any cooking required, saving time. This makes it a practical option for busy individuals or those seeking quick, ready-to-eat protein sources to incorporate into their daily routine, supporting consistent meal planning.
BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast scores 47/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content, despite offering a good amount of protein.
How to eat it
Prepared turkey breast is commonly consumed in the US as a sandwich filling, a protein addition to salads, or as a quick snack. A typical serving size is 2 ounces, which can be easily incorporated into various meals for a protein boost. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially given its sodium content.
Pair with whole-grain bread and plenty of vegetables to create a balanced sandwich that adds fiber and micronutrients.
Dice and add to a large mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to increase protein without significant added fat.
Use smaller portions (e.g., 1 ounce) in egg white omelets or wraps to distribute the sodium intake across more meals.
Consider using it as a post-workout protein source alongside complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or quinoa.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several food additives, including carrageenan, sodium phosphate, sodium acetate, sodium diacetate, sodium erythorbate, and sodium nitrite. Carrageenan is a common thickener that some individuals report digestive sensitivities to, though it is generally recognized as safe. The various sodium compounds contribute to the product's high sodium content, which is a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Sodium nitrite is a preservative used in cured meats; while effective in preventing bacterial growth, some dietary guidelines suggest limiting intake of foods containing nitrites. Individuals with specific sensitivities to these additives should review the ingredient list carefully.
Is BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast healthy?
BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast scores 47/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It provides a good amount of protein and is low in fat. However, it is an ultra-processed food and high in sodium, which are factors to consider for overall dietary health. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does BIRCHBERRY BISTRO compare to other deli turkey brands?
Compared to other deli turkey brands like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh, BIRCHBERRY BISTRO's nutritional profile is generally similar in terms of protein and fat content for a mesquite smoked, honey roasted variety. The primary difference often lies in the specific additives and sodium levels, which can vary. Always check the nutrition label for direct comparisons, especially for sodium and added sugars.
What is carrageenan and why is it in this product?
Carrageenan is a common food additive derived from red seaweed, used as a thickener and stabilizer in many processed foods. In BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast, it likely helps improve the texture and moisture retention of the product. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals report gastrointestinal discomfort after consuming products with carrageenan.
What is a reasonable portion size for this turkey breast?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). This portion provides about 10g of protein and 410mg of sodium. For most adults, this is a reasonable portion to include in a sandwich or salad. However, due to the high sodium content, it's advisable to balance it with other low-sodium foods throughout the day.
Can I eat this turkey breast every day?
While BIRCHBERRY BISTRO Premium Turkey Breast offers protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content suggest that it may be best consumed in moderation rather than daily. Incorporating a variety of protein sources, including less processed options like fresh turkey, chicken, fish, or legumes, is generally recommended for a diverse and balanced diet.