FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidpreparedCB OLD COUNTRY STORE· 1 FRIED** SLICE

CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON

CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**, alongside its ultra-processed nature.

  • This product scores 22/100, indicating it is best consumed infrequently.
  • A single serving contains 1758.82mg of sodium, a significant amount for daily intake.
  • With 23.53g of protein per 100g, it offers a notable protein contribution.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, differing from a home-cooked alternative.
  • Portion control is key, as even small amounts contribute substantially to saturated fat and sodium limits.
  • Scores -24 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
23.53g
47% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1758.82mg
76% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (23.5g)+10
What holds it back
Saturated fat (20.6g)-15
Sodium (1758.8mg)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 22

CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON earns a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score reflects several nutritional factors. While it receives a bonus of +10 points for its protein content (23.5g per 100g), this is significantly outweighed by penalties. The product is heavily penalized for its high saturated fat content, incurring -15 points for 20.6g per 100g. Its substantial sodium level, at 1758.82mg per 100g, leads to a -10 point deduction. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 4 food, it is classified as ultra-processed, resulting in another -10 point penalty. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat adds an additional -3 points. Ingredients like sodium nitrite and sodium phosphates are indicative of its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and includes food additives not typically found in a simple preparation.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in cb old country store center cut bacon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON provides a notable amount of protein, with 23.53g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, hormone production, and enzyme function. Including protein in meals can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help manage appetite. This product can contribute to your daily protein intake, particularly if consumed as part of a balanced meal.

Convenient Meal Component

This product offers convenience as a quick-cooking component for meals. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, pre-packaged bacon can be a practical option to add flavor and protein to breakfast or other dishes. Its ease of preparation means it can be incorporated into various recipes without extensive cooking steps, making it a time-saving choice for busy schedules.

Flavor Enhancement

Bacon is often used for its distinctive savory flavor to enhance a variety of dishes. The rich taste of CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON can make meals more appealing, potentially encouraging consumption of other nutrient-dense foods when paired appropriately. Using small amounts to add flavor can be a way to enjoy its taste without significantly increasing the intake of less desirable nutrients.

How to eat it

Bacon is commonly consumed as a breakfast item, often alongside eggs, toast, or pancakes. It's also frequently used to add flavor and texture to sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for various dishes. Due to its high fat and sodium content, typical portions are small, usually one or two slices.

Pair bacon with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast and a generous serving of vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
Use bacon as a flavoring agent rather than a main component; crumble a small amount over salads or roasted vegetables.
Consider using a smaller portion size than what might be typically consumed to reduce saturated fat and sodium intake.
Blot cooked bacon with a paper towel to remove some of the rendered fat, which can slightly reduce its fat content.
Explore plant-based alternatives or leaner protein sources like turkey bacon for everyday consumption.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (1758.82mg per 100g) in CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON, as excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure in some individuals. The product also contains sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which has been a subject of discussion regarding its potential health effects. Individuals sensitive to food additives or those advised to limit sodium should consume this product sparingly. The high saturated fat content is another factor to consider for cardiovascular health. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this specific product.

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Reader questions
Is CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON healthy?
CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON receives a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy everyday food. Its high levels of saturated fat and sodium are the primary reasons for this score. While it provides protein, the overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation and as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
How does CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON compare to other bacon brands?
Compared to other conventional bacon brands like Oscar Mayer Original Bacon, CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON has a similar nutritional profile, often featuring comparable levels of saturated fat and sodium. Most traditional bacon products fall into the ultra-processed category due to curing and processing methods. For a lower fat and sodium option, consumers might consider turkey bacon alternatives.
What is sodium nitrite, and should I be concerned about it?
Sodium nitrite is a common food additive used in cured meats like bacon to preserve color, prevent bacterial growth, and enhance flavor. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some research suggests potential concerns when nitrites react with amines to form nitrosamines, particularly at high temperatures. Limiting intake of processed meats containing nitrites is a common dietary recommendation.
What is a recommended portion size for this bacon?
The serving size listed for CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON is one fried slice. Given its high saturated fat and sodium content, adhering to this small portion size is advisable. For context, one slice contributes significantly to daily limits for these nutrients, so moderation is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
Can I reduce the fat content of this bacon?
Yes, you can somewhat reduce the fat content of CB OLD COUNTRY STORE CENTER CUT BACON by draining the rendered fat after cooking. Blotting the cooked slices with a paper towel can also absorb some surface fat. However, these methods only remove a portion of the fat, and the inherent fat within the meat remains.

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Data & references