ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH receives a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent). Its **high sodium content** is the primary factor limiting a higher score.
FoodScore: 46/100 (Decent) due to high sodium and ultra-processing.
Provides 17.86g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
Contains 910.71mg of sodium per 100g, which is a significant amount.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Can be a convenient protein source, but consider its high sodium when planning meals.
Scores +0 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.86g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
910.71mg
40% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (910.7mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The product receives a significant bonus of +10 points for its protein content, providing 17.86g per 100g, which is a notable amount for a deli meat. However, this positive is offset by several factors. A penalty of -4 points is applied due to its high sodium content, which stands at 910.71mg per 100g. This amount is substantial and contributes significantly to daily sodium intake recommendations. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point penalty. Ingredients like maltodextrin, sugar, and natural flavors contribute to this classification. While it contains 2.5g of added sugar per 100g, this amount is not high enough to incur a specific penalty. Compared to a home-cooked chicken breast, this ECKRICH DELI product contains considerably more sodium and added ingredients, reflecting its processed nature.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in eckrich deli buffalo style chicken breast, ranch actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This product is a good source of protein, offering 17.86g per 100g. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, and adequate intake can help maintain muscle mass, especially important for active individuals or as we age. The protein content also contributes to feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite throughout the day. Incorporating protein-rich foods into meals can help reduce overall calorie intake by promoting satiety.
Convenient Protein Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy protein source, ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH offers convenience and accessibility. As a pre-cooked and sliced deli meat, it requires no additional preparation, making it a practical choice for busy schedules. This can be particularly useful for adding protein to lunches, snacks, or light dinners without the need for extensive cooking. Its ready-to-eat format supports efficient meal preparation.
Low in Saturated and Trans Fats
This chicken breast product contains 0g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g. Maintaining a diet low in saturated and trans fats is important for cardiovascular health. These types of fats, when consumed in excess, can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels. The absence of these fats in this product means it can be included in a diet focused on heart-healthy eating patterns, provided other nutritional aspects like sodium are considered.
ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH receives a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent). Its high sodium content is the primary factor limiting a higher score.
How to eat it
ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH is typically consumed as a cold cut in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Its convenience makes it a popular choice for quick meals and snacks. A common portion size is around 2 ounces, or 56 grams.
Pair with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber in a sandwich to add fiber and micronutrients.
Use smaller portions in salads or wraps to help manage sodium intake while still getting protein.
Combine with whole-grain bread or crackers to increase dietary fiber and promote sustained energy.
Consider using it as a protein topping for a homemade pizza with plenty of vegetables.
Balance its high sodium by consuming with foods naturally low in sodium, such as unsalted fruits and vegetables.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH is its high sodium content, at 910.71mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in moderation or choose lower-sodium alternatives. The presence of sodium phosphates as an additive also contributes to the overall sodium load. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may be sensitive to food additives. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a higher degree of industrial processing and a formulation that often includes added sugars, fats, and flavorings, which may not align with dietary preferences for minimally processed foods.
Is ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH considered healthy?
With a FoodScore of 46/100, this product is rated 'Decent'. It offers a good amount of protein but is high in sodium and is an ultra-processed food. While it can be part of a balanced diet, it's important to consider portion sizes and balance it with other whole, unprocessed foods.
How does ECKRICH DELI compare to other deli meats?
Compared to some other deli meats, such as Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, ECKRICH DELI BUFFALO STYLE CHICKEN BREAST, RANCH has a similar protein content but may have varying sodium levels depending on the specific product. Many deli meats are high in sodium and fall into the ultra-processed category, so always check the nutrition label for direct comparison.
What is 'maltodextrin' in the ingredient list?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative. It is a carbohydrate that can contribute to the overall calorie count and is considered a processed ingredient, contributing to the product's NOVA class 4 classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and other components. For reference, 2 ounces provides about 10g of protein and approximately 510mg of sodium, which is still a significant contribution to daily sodium limits.
Can this product be used in a low-sodium diet?
Due to its high sodium content of 910.71mg per 100g, this product is not suitable for a low-sodium diet. Individuals on sodium-restricted diets should seek out deli meats specifically labeled as 'low sodium' or 'very low sodium' to meet their dietary needs.