ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**, alongside being an ultra-processed food.
This ECKRICH product scores 24/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 12.5g of protein per 100g, which contributes positively to its nutritional profile.
A significant concern is its 875mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to high daily intake.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, differing significantly from a home-cooked alternative.
Consider this product for occasional use, focusing on small portions to manage intake of less desirable nutrients.
Scores -22 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.75g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
875mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.5g)+8
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.8g)-2
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (875mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 24
ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED earns a FoodScore of 24/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by several factors. The product contains 10.7g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -15 points, reflecting its contribution to a diet high in saturated fats. Additionally, its sodium content of 875mg per 100g leads to a -4 point penalty, highlighting a significant amount of sodium. The presence of 3.75g of added sugar, including corn syrup and dextrose, contributes a -2 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point penalty. The formulation also includes concentrated ultra-processed fat, leading to a further -3 point deduction. While it does provide 12.5g of protein per 100g, earning +8 points, this positive contribution is outweighed by the numerous penalties. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this ECKRICH product contains significantly more sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars, and is far more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in eckrich smoked deli sausage, smoked actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This ECKRICH smoked deli sausage offers 12.5g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily functions. Including protein in meals can contribute to satiety, helping manage hunger between meals. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, this product can serve as a component of a meal, though it should be balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and packaged item, this product offers significant convenience for quick meal preparation. It requires minimal effort to incorporate into dishes, making it a practical option for busy individuals or those with limited cooking time. Its ready-to-eat format can be useful for assembling meals rapidly, such as adding to sandwiches or salads, when time is a constraint.
Source of Iron
ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED provides 1.29mg of iron per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for those who may need to boost their levels. It's important to consume a variety of iron-rich foods for optimal intake.
ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, alongside being an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This smoked deli sausage is typically consumed as a quick meal component, often sliced and added to sandwiches, served alongside eggs, or incorporated into casseroles. Its savory flavor profile makes it a versatile addition to various dishes, but its high sodium and fat content mean portion control is key.
To balance the meal, pair a small portion of this sausage with plenty of vegetables and a whole grain bread or bun.
Consider using it as a flavor enhancer in dishes rather than the main protein source, for example, by dicing a small amount into a vegetable stir-fry.
Be mindful of other high-sodium ingredients in your meal when consuming this product to manage overall sodium intake.
If using in a sandwich, load up on fresh greens, tomatoes, and other vegetables to add fiber and nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED, at 875mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which helps prevent bacterial growth but is a point of consideration for some consumers. The product also contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer, which can cause sensitivity in some individuals. Given its NOVA class 4 classification, it is an ultra-processed food, meaning it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens.
This product receives a FoodScore of 24/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it offers protein, its high saturated fat and sodium content, along with being an ultra-processed food, mean it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional item.
How does ECKRICH SMOKED DELI SAUSAGE, SMOKED compare to other deli meats?
Compared to some other deli meats, such as Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Turkey Breast, this ECKRICH product generally has higher saturated fat and sodium. Many deli meats are ultra-processed, but nutritional profiles can vary significantly. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons, especially regarding sodium and fat content.
What is 'mechanically separated turkey' in the ingredient list?
Mechanically separated turkey is a paste-like meat product produced by forcing poultry bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in processed meat products and contributes to the overall meat content, but it is distinct from whole muscle meat.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sausage?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of saturated fat (6g per serving) and sodium (490mg per serving). For a balanced diet, it's recommended to limit high-sodium and high-saturated fat foods and focus on smaller portions of this product.
Can I eat this product if I'm trying to reduce my intake of processed foods?
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed. If your goal is to reduce processed foods, this item would not align with that objective. Opting for whole, unprocessed meats and preparing them at home would be a more suitable alternative for a less processed diet.