FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorpreparedCOLEMAN NATURAL· 1 LINK

COLEMAN NATURAL SAUSAGE, SMOKED KIELBASA

COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**.

  • This COLEMAN NATURAL product scores 44/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
  • A single link contains 694.12mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
  • It provides 14.12g of protein per 100g, a notable positive nutritional aspect.
  • Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it contains ingredients not typically found in a home-cooked version.
  • Portion control is important due to the calorie and fat density.
  • Scores -2 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.12g
28% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.65g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
694.12mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.1g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
What holds it back
Saturated fat (8.2g)-10
Sodium (694.1mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 44

COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa earns a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a combination of nutritional factors. On the positive side, the product provides a good amount of protein, with 14.12g per 100g, which contributes a bonus to its score. It also contains 55% DV of Vitamin C, adding a small micronutrient bonus. However, several factors significantly penalize its score. The saturated fat content is high at 8.24g per 100g, which is a notable detractor. Furthermore, the sodium level is substantial at 694.12mg per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty. The presence of added sugar, specifically 'evaporated cane syrup' and 'honey', though in smaller amounts (1.65g per 100g), is also considered. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for its level of processing, indicating it contains ingredients and processing steps beyond what would be used in a simple home preparation. Compared to a home-cooked kielbasa made with whole ingredients, this product contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and includes ingredients like celery powder and cherry powder for preservation and color, which are not typically used in basic home cooking.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in coleman natural sausage, smoked kielbasa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa provides 14.12g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as the production of enzymes and hormones. Including adequate protein in meals can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help manage overall calorie intake. This makes the product a viable option for contributing to daily protein goals, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.

Contains Vitamin C

This product offers 55% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that supports the immune system and is necessary for the production of collagen, which is crucial for skin, cartilage, and bone health. While not typically a primary source of Vitamin C, its presence in a meat product is a notable nutritional contribution, helping to meet daily micronutrient needs.

Convenient Meal Component

As a pre-cooked and smoked product, COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa offers convenience in meal preparation. It can be quickly heated and added to various dishes, reducing cooking time. This convenience can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules who are looking for quick protein sources to incorporate into their meals, provided other nutritional considerations like sodium and fat are managed.

How to eat it

Smoked kielbasa is typically consumed as part of a main meal, often pan-fried or grilled and served with side dishes. A common portion is one link, which is the serving size. Due to its flavor intensity and nutrient density, it's often paired with simpler, less seasoned foods. A common pitfall is consuming multiple links without accounting for the cumulative sodium and fat.

Pair with fiber-rich vegetables like sauerkraut, roasted cabbage, or bell peppers to balance the meal and add essential nutrients.
Consider cutting the kielbasa into smaller pieces and using it as a flavorful accent in dishes like soups, stews, or pasta, rather than the main component.
To reduce overall sodium intake, prepare side dishes with minimal added salt when consuming this product.
When pan-frying, consider dry-frying or using a small amount of a heart-healthy oil to avoid adding extra fat.
Things to keep in mind

This COLEMAN NATURAL product contains a notable amount of sodium (694.12mg per 100g), which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those with sodium-sensitive conditions. The ingredient list includes 'celery powder' and 'cherry powder', which are often used as natural sources of nitrates/nitrites for curing and preservation, similar to synthetic versions. While the product is 'raised without antibiotics', it is still a processed meat product. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities to seasonings should review the 'seasoning (evaporated cane syrup, spice, natural flavor)' carefully. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label.

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Reader questions
Is COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa healthy?
COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers a good source of protein (14.12g per 100g) and some Vitamin C, its high saturated fat (8.24g per 100g) and sodium (694.12mg per 100g) content contribute to its lower score. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa compare to other kielbasa brands?
Compared to some other popular kielbasa brands like Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage, COLEMAN NATURAL may have similar or slightly lower sodium levels depending on the specific product. However, many processed kielbasa products tend to be high in sodium and saturated fat. Always check the nutrition facts label for specific comparisons, as formulations vary significantly between brands.
What does 'raised without antibiotics' mean for this product?
The 'raised without antibiotics' claim indicates that the pigs used for COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa were not given antibiotics during their lifetime. This addresses consumer concerns about antibiotic resistance in the food supply. However, this claim primarily relates to animal husbandry practices and does not directly alter the nutritional profile of the finished product, such as its fat, sodium, or protein content.
What is a reasonable portion size for COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa?
The declared serving size is 1 link, which provides 294.12 calories, 24.71g total fat, and 694.12mg sodium. For most individuals, sticking to the single-link serving is advisable to manage intake of saturated fat and sodium. Pairing it with a large portion of vegetables can help create a more balanced meal.
Can COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa be part of a low-carb diet?
Yes, COLEMAN NATURAL Smoked Kielbasa is relatively low in carbohydrates, with 0g of fiber and minimal added sugar (1.65g per 100g). This makes it suitable for individuals following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, its high fat content, particularly saturated fat, should still be considered within the context of overall dietary goals.

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