ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE receives a FoodScore of 30/100 (Poor).
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
A 100g serving contains 946.43mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
It provides 10.7g of protein per 100g, which is a positive nutritional aspect.
Consider this product for occasional use due to its high sodium and saturated fat content.
Scores -16 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
10.7g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.25g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
946.43mg
41% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.7g)+6
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (8.9g)-11
Sodium (946.4mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 30
ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE receives a FoodScore of 30 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the product gains 6 points for its protein content of 10.7g per 100g and 2 points for providing 18% DV of Vitamin C. However, these bonuses are significantly outweighed by penalties. The product incurs an 11-point penalty for its saturated fat content of 8.93g per 100g, which is a considerable amount. A substantial penalty of 4 points is applied due to the high sodium content of 946.43mg per 100g, representing a significant portion of the daily recommended limit. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, results in a 10-point deduction. An additional 3 points are deducted for concentrated ultra-processed fat. Ingredients like corn syrup and monosodium glutamate contribute to its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked version made with whole ingredients, this ECKRICH product contains significantly higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and includes various food additives not typically found in a scratch-made meal.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in eckrich, 4 pepper smoked sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This ECKRICH product provides 10.7g of protein per 100g serving, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. Including protein in meals can help you feel fuller for longer. While not the primary source of protein in a balanced diet, it can supplement intake when consumed in moderation.
Contains Vitamin C
ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE offers 18% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. It also contributes to collagen formation, which is important for skin, cartilage, and bone health. While not a significant source, this contribution can be a minor part of overall Vitamin C intake.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and seasoned item, this smoked sausage offers convenience for quick meal preparation. It can be easily heated and added to dishes, reducing cooking time. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, convenient protein sources can be useful. However, its nutritional profile suggests it is best used as an occasional component rather than a dietary staple.
ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Smoked sausage is commonly consumed as part of a main meal, often pan-fried or grilled, and paired with side dishes. A typical serving size is 2 ounces, which is about 56g. Due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, moderation is key for this product.
Pair with a large portion of non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or leafy greens to add fiber and micronutrients.
Use smaller portions of the sausage and combine with leaner protein sources such as beans or lentils in dishes like stews or jambalaya.
Consider using this sausage as a flavor enhancer in dishes rather than the main protein, dicing it into small pieces for flavor distribution.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a high amount of sodium, with 946.43mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, particularly those with high blood pressure, should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrate, a common preservative in cured meats, which some individuals prefer to limit. It also contains mechanically separated turkey and mechanically separated chicken, which are common in processed meat products. While generally recognized as safe, consumers with specific dietary preferences or concerns about processed ingredients may wish to consider alternatives. The product is also high in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
ECKRICH, 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein and some Vitamin C, its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with its ultra-processed nature, mean it is not considered a healthy everyday food. It is best consumed in moderation.
How does ECKRICH 4 PEPPER SMOKED SAUSAGE compare to a generic smoked sausage?
Compared to many generic smoked sausages, the ECKRICH product's nutritional profile is similar in terms of high sodium and saturated fat. For example, a typical Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage also contains comparable levels of sodium and fat. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons, as values can vary by brand and formulation.
What is 'mechanically separated turkey' in the ingredients?
Mechanically separated turkey is a paste-like meat product made by forcing poultry bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in processed meat products like sausages and hot dogs, used to maximize the use of the animal and reduce costs. It contributes to the overall protein content of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this smoked sausage?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). Given its high sodium and saturated fat, sticking to this portion size is advisable. For a balanced meal, pair this portion with a generous amount of vegetables and a whole grain to dilute its impact on overall nutrient intake.
Can I eat this sausage if I am watching my sodium intake?
Due to its very high sodium content (946.43mg per 100g), this product is not ideal for individuals actively watching their sodium intake. A single serving contributes significantly to the daily recommended limit. If consumed, it should be a rare indulgence, and other meals throughout the day should be very low in sodium to compensate.