CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK earns a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and significant **added sugar** content.
FoodScore: 35/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional density.
Contains 15g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in added sugar (10.5g per 100g) and sodium (692.86mg per 100g).
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike a home-cooked alternative.
Best consumed in moderation and paired with whole, unprocessed foods.
Scores -11 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0.7g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
15g
30% of Daily Value
Added sugar
10.5g
21% of Daily Value
Sodium
692.86mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15g)+10
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (10.5g)-12
Sodium (692.9mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 35
CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK receives a FoodScore of 35/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factors driving this score are its classification as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), which incurs a -10 penalty, and its significant added sugar content of 10.5g per 100g, resulting in a -12 penalty. The product also contains 692.86mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -3 penalty. While CURLY'S provides a notable 15g of protein per 100g, earning a +10 bonus, this positive contribution is outweighed by the penalties. Ingredients like sugar and molasses in the BBQ sauce contribute to the high added sugar. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product contains more added sugars and sodium, and lacks the micronutrient diversity typically found in less processed foods, such as potassium, calcium, and zinc, all at 0% DV.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in curly's natural smoked pulled pork actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Protein Source
This product provides 15g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports various bodily functions, including enzyme production and immune response. Including protein in meals helps promote satiety, which can be beneficial for managing hunger throughout the day. This makes CURLY'S a convenient option for adding protein to a meal, especially when time for meal preparation is limited.
Convenient Meal Component
CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK offers convenience as a ready-to-eat protein source, requiring minimal preparation. For individuals with busy schedules, this product can serve as a quick component for meals, reducing the need for extensive cooking. Its pre-cooked nature allows for easy integration into various dishes, providing a time-saving solution for meal assembly. This can be particularly useful when a quick source of protein is needed.
Iron Contribution
The product contributes 1.29mg of iron per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body as part of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It also plays a role in energy metabolism. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily iron needs, especially when combined with other iron-rich foods. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency anemia.
CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK earns a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and significant added sugar content.
How to eat it
CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK is typically consumed as a main dish component, often served on buns or alongside side dishes. A common portion size is around 5 ounces (140g), which aligns with the serving size on the package. Be mindful of the added sugar and sodium when pairing with other foods.
To balance the meal, pair the pulled pork with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables, such as a side salad or steamed green beans, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider using a smaller portion of the pulled pork (e.g., 3-4 ounces) and supplementing with leaner protein sources like beans or lentils to reduce overall sodium and added sugar.
Serve the pulled pork without additional BBQ sauce, or use a low-sugar, low-sodium BBQ sauce to further reduce the intake of added sugars and sodium.
Use the pulled pork as a flavor component in dishes like wraps or bowls, ensuring the majority of the meal consists of whole, unprocessed ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK, which is 10.5g per 100g, primarily from sugar and molasses in the BBQ sauce. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or aiming for weight management, may need to consume this product in moderation. The sodium content of 692.86mg per 100g is also notable; those on sodium-restricted diets should consider this when planning meals. The ingredient list includes soybean oil, which is a common allergen for some individuals, though it is not listed as a major allergen on the label. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients that are not typically found in a home kitchen, such as cultured dextrose (with natural flavor) and caramel color.
CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK has a FoodScore of 35/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally dense food. While it provides 15g of protein per 100g, it is also high in added sugar (10.5g per 100g) and sodium (692.86mg per 100g). It is classified as ultra-processed, meaning it contains ingredients and additives not typically used in home cooking.
How does CURLY'S compare to other pulled pork products?
Compared to a generic home-cooked pulled pork made with whole ingredients, CURLY'S contains more added sugars and sodium due to its BBQ sauce formulation. For example, some brands like Lloyd's Pulled Pork may have similar nutritional profiles, often varying in their specific BBQ sauce ingredients and overall sodium and sugar levels. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What does 'natural hickory smoke flavor' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural hickory smoke flavor' refers to a flavoring agent derived from hickory wood smoke. It is used to impart a smoky taste without the traditional smoking process. While it's labeled 'natural,' it is a flavoring additive and not a whole food ingredient. Its presence contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for CURLY'S NATURAL SMOKED PULLED PORK?
The declared serving size is 5 ounces (approximately 140g). Given its high added sugar and sodium content, it is advisable to adhere to this portion size or even consume a smaller amount. Pairing it with a larger volume of fiber-rich vegetables can help create a more balanced meal and promote satiety without excessive intake of less desirable nutrients.
Can I reduce the sodium content of this product?
The sodium is integrated into the pork and BBQ sauce, making it difficult to significantly reduce. However, you can mitigate overall meal sodium by pairing it with low-sodium side dishes and avoiding additional salty condiments. Rinsing the pork might remove some surface sodium, but it could also affect flavor and texture.