BRIDGFORD HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BEEF JERKY scores 19/100 (Avoid) due to its **high sodium and added sugar content**, despite providing a significant amount of protein.
This product received a FoodScore of 19/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It provides 42.86g of protein per 100g, a notable amount for a snack.
A primary concern is the 17.5g of added sugar and 1789.29mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from whole-food snack alternatives.
Consider this jerky as an occasional item rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -22 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
42.86g
86% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.5g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
1789.29mg
78% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (42.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.5g)-23
Sodium (1789.3mg)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 19
BRIDGFORD HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BEEF JERKY received a FoodScore of 19 out of 100, primarily driven by its ultra-processed nature and high levels of added sugar and sodium. The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. A substantial amount of added sugar, listed as 'brown sugar' and 'sugar' early in the ingredient list, contributes 17.5g per 100g, leading to a -23 point penalty. Furthermore, the sodium content is very high at 1789.29mg per 100g, resulting in a -10 point penalty. On the positive side, the product does offer a considerable amount of protein, with 42.86g per 100g, which earned a +10 point bonus. It also received a minor bonus of +2 points for its iron content (18% DV). When compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this BRIDGFORD jerky contains significantly more added sugar and sodium, and lacks the fiber and diverse micronutrients typically found in less processed options.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bridgford hickory & brown sugar beef jerky actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This beef jerky is a concentrated source of protein, providing 42.86g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and consuming adequate amounts can contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially helping with appetite management. For individuals seeking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity, this product can serve as a convenient option.
Convenient On-the-Go Protein Source
The format of beef jerky makes it an exceptionally convenient snack for busy lifestyles or situations where refrigeration is not available. Its portability and long shelf-life mean it can be easily carried in a bag or kept in a desk drawer, offering a quick source of protein when other options are limited. This can be particularly useful for travelers or those with unpredictable schedules.
Contributes to Iron Intake
BRIDGFORD HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BEEF JERKY provides 3.21mg of iron per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, this product can contribute to meeting daily iron requirements, especially for individuals who may need to boost their intake.
BRIDGFORD HICKORY & BROWN SUGAR BEEF JERKY scores 19/100 (Avoid) due to its high sodium and added sugar content, despite providing a significant amount of protein.
How to eat it
Beef jerky is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack between meals, often when on the go or needing a quick protein boost. A common serving size is 1 ounce, which is significantly less than the 100g used for nutritional analysis. Be mindful of portion sizes to manage sodium and added sugar intake.
Pair with fresh fruit or vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients, balancing the nutrient profile of the snack.
Use as a small, occasional protein supplement rather than a primary meal component due to its high sodium and added sugar.
Consider cutting the jerky into smaller pieces to make a single serving last longer, promoting mindful eating.
Hydrate with water when consuming jerky to help manage the high sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a high amount of sodium (1789.29mg per 100g) and added sugar (17.5g per 100g). Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or blood sugar levels, such as those with hypertension or diabetes, should consume this product in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes monosodium glutamate, which some individuals may prefer to avoid. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. Children should consume this product sparingly due to the high sodium content.
Is BRIDGFORD Hickory & Brown Sugar Beef Jerky a healthy snack option?
BRIDGFORD Hickory & Brown Sugar Beef Jerky received a FoodScore of 19/100 (Avoid). While it offers a good amount of protein (42.86g per 100g), its high levels of added sugar (17.5g per 100g) and sodium (1789.29mg per 100g) contribute to its low score. It is best considered an occasional item rather than a regular part of a balanced diet.
How does BRIDGFORD jerky compare to other beef jerky brands?
Compared to some other popular beef jerky brands like Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky, BRIDGFORD Hickory & Brown Sugar Beef Jerky may have similar or higher levels of sodium and added sugar, depending on the specific flavor and formulation. Many jerky products in the snack category share a common challenge of high sodium and sugar content. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons.
What is 'SWEET BABY RAY'S JERKY BASE' in the ingredients?
SWEET BABY RAY'S JERKY BASE is a proprietary blend of ingredients used to flavor the jerky. The label indicates it contains components like vinegar powder, tomato powder, pineapple juice powder, and Worcestershire sauce powder, among others. These ingredients contribute to the overall flavor profile and the product's classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a recommended portion size for this jerky?
The manufacturer's stated serving size is 1 ounce. This is significantly less than the 100g used for the nutritional analysis. Sticking to the 1-ounce serving size will help manage the intake of sodium and added sugar, which are substantial when consuming larger quantities.
Can this jerky be part of a low-carb diet?
While beef jerky is often perceived as a low-carb snack due to its protein content, this specific BRIDGFORD product contains 17.5g of added sugar per 100g. Individuals following a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet should carefully consider this sugar content and choose products with minimal or no added sugars.