DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor) indicates this product is not a strong nutritional choice.
Contains 612% DV of Vitamin A, a notable micronutrient contribution.
High sodium content at 475.77mg per 100g is a significant concern.
This prepared salad is ultra-processed (NOVA 4), unlike a home-cooked version.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a daily staple.
Scores -4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.3g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
5.73g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
475.77mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.7g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Sodium (475.8mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
The DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD scores 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. The product also contains a high amount of sodium, with 475.77mg per 100g, leading to a -1 point penalty. While it does offer some protein at 5.73g per 100g, earning a +1 bonus, and a notable +2 bonus for its high Vitamin A content (612% DV), these positive aspects are outweighed by the processing and sodium. Ingredients like canola oil and maltodextrin in the dressing, and soy protein isolate in the turkey, are common in ultra-processed foods. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this DEL CAFE salad contains more added components and a higher sodium level, which detracts from its overall nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in del cafe turkey and bacon cobb salad actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This DEL CAFE salad provides a substantial amount of Vitamin A, delivering 612% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The carrots and romaine lettuce are likely contributors to this high level. Including foods rich in Vitamin A can support overall well-being, especially for individuals who may have lower dietary intake of this vitamin from other sources. It's a key micronutrient highlight in this product.
Provides Protein
The DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD offers 5.73g of protein per 100g. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and various bodily functions. The turkey and hard-cooked eggs are primary sources of protein in this salad. While not exceptionally high, this protein content can contribute to feeling fuller and more satisfied after a meal, which can be beneficial for managing appetite and energy levels throughout the day. It helps make the meal more substantial.
Convenient Meal Option
This prepared salad offers a convenient and ready-to-eat meal solution for busy individuals. Its pre-portioned nature means no preparation is required, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner when time is limited. While its nutritional profile has drawbacks, its convenience can help prevent skipping meals or opting for less nutritious fast-food alternatives in a pinch. It serves as a practical choice for those seeking a grab-and-go meal.
DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Prepared salads like the DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD are typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. They are designed for convenience, often eaten directly from the container. Common pitfalls include consuming the entire package without considering the nutrient density.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding extra fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to increase fiber and micronutrients.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, use only a portion of the dressing provided or opt for a lighter, homemade vinaigrette.
Pair this salad with a piece of fruit or a small handful of unsalted nuts to add additional fiber and healthy fats, improving overall meal balance.
Be mindful of the serving size; consuming the entire container means ingesting the full sodium load, so consider splitting it if you are sensitive to sodium levels.
For a more balanced meal, combine with a whole-grain roll or crackers to add complex carbohydrates and further increase satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The Big Bleu Dressing includes canola oil and egg yolk, which contribute to the total fat content, including saturated fat. Individuals with egg or milk allergies should note that this product contains both, as indicated by the blue cheese and hard-cooked eggs. The turkey component lists soy protein isolate, which is a common allergen and a marker of processing. The overall ultra-processed nature (NOVA 4) of the salad, with ingredients like maltodextrin and various gums, means it contains components that may not be present in a home-cooked equivalent. While generally safe for consumption, those with sensitivities to highly processed foods or specific additives might experience digestive discomfort.
The DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD has a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it provides Vitamin A and some protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content mean it is not a strong choice for regular consumption. It's best viewed as an occasional convenience item rather than a cornerstone of a healthy diet.
How does DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD compare to a generic cobb salad?
Compared to a generic, freshly prepared cobb salad from a deli, the DEL CAFE version is likely to be more ultra-processed due to its shelf-stable ingredients and additives like carrageenan gum and soy protein isolate. A generic deli salad might offer fresher ingredients and potentially lower sodium if the dressing is applied sparingly or chosen carefully. For example, a freshly made salad from a brand like Sweetgreen would likely use fewer processed ingredients.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. While derived from nature, these flavors are often highly concentrated and processed to achieve a specific taste profile. They contribute to the overall palatability of the product but do not typically provide nutritional benefits.
How much of this salad should I eat?
The serving size is one container. However, given its high sodium content, if you are monitoring your sodium intake, you might consider consuming only half the container and supplementing with fresh, unprocessed foods. For general consumption, enjoying the full container occasionally is acceptable, but it should not be a daily staple.
Can I store this salad after opening?
Once opened, it is generally recommended to consume the DEL CAFE TURKEY AND BACON COBB SALAD promptly. The fresh ingredients, especially the lettuce and dressing, can degrade quickly. For food safety and quality, it's best to finish the salad within a few hours of opening or refrigerate immediately and consume within 24 hours.