Ember Farms SAUS,PTY,FC,ORIG,EF,2OZ,CN,10#,Z scores 26/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
This Ember Farms product scores 26/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice on FoodScore.
A single serving contains 12.3g of saturated fat, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 859.65mg of sodium per 100g, this product is a high-sodium food.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, differing substantially from a home-cooked alternative.
Consider this product for occasional consumption, focusing on smaller portions and balancing with whole foods.
Scores -20 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.3g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.22g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
859.65mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.3g)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (12.3g)-15
Sodium (859.6mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 26
Ember Farms SAUS,PTY,FC,ORIG,EF,2OZ,CN,10#,Z receives a FoodScore of 26 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile and processing level. The product incurs significant penalties for its high saturated fat content, which is 12.3g per 100g, and its substantial sodium level of 859.65mg per 100g. Both of these values exceed recommended daily limits when consumed in typical serving sizes. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, meaning it contains multiple ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as corn syrup solids, dextrose, and various spice extractives and preservatives like BHT and propyl gallate. While it does receive a bonus for its protein content of 12.3g per 100g, this is outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a home-cooked sausage made with whole ingredients, this Ember Farms product contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat and includes several food additives.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ember farms saus,pty,fc,orig,ef,2oz,cn,10#,z actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This Ember Farms sausage provides 12.3g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. Including protein in meals can help you feel full and satisfied, potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. For individuals looking to meet protein targets, this product can be a component of a meal, though its overall nutritional profile should be considered.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, Ember Farms sausage patties offer convenience for quick meal preparation. This can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking an easy addition to breakfast or other meals. Its pre-portioned nature can simplify meal planning. While convenience is a practical benefit, it's important to balance such items with less processed foods to ensure a diverse and nutrient-rich diet. The product's ease of use can help in situations where time is a constraint.
Energy Contribution
With 385.96 calories per 100g, this product provides a concentrated source of energy. For individuals with higher energy needs, such as athletes or those with physically demanding jobs, this can be a quick way to contribute to caloric requirements. The energy primarily comes from its fat content. While it provides calories, it is important to consider the source of these calories and prioritize nutrient-dense options for sustained energy and overall health.
Ember Farms SAUS,PTY,FC,ORIG,EF,2OZ,CN,10#,Z scores 26/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, alongside its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Sausage patties like Ember Farms are commonly consumed as part of a breakfast, often alongside eggs, toast, or pancakes. They can also be incorporated into sandwiches or wraps. A typical serving is one patty, but due to its dense caloric and fat content, mindful portion control is important.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast or a side of vegetables to add nutrients and balance the meal.
Consider cutting a patty in half to reduce saturated fat and sodium intake per meal, especially if consuming other high-sodium items.
Use as an occasional protein source, prioritizing leaner protein options like chicken breast or fish for regular meals.
When making breakfast sandwiches, opt for whole-wheat English muffins and add spinach or tomato for extra nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of BHT and propyl gallate are synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives, which some consumers may prefer to limit in their diet. The inclusion of corn syrup solids and dextrose contributes to the added sugar content, albeit a small amount (1.22g per 100g). Individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars should be aware of these ingredients. The high sodium content (859.65mg per 100g) is a significant factor for those managing blood pressure or following a low-sodium diet. Children and individuals with hypertension should consume this product sparingly due to its sodium levels. There are no common allergens declared on the label beyond the pork itself.
Is Ember Farms SAUS,PTY,FC,ORIG,EF,2OZ,CN,10#,Z healthy?
This Ember Farms product scores 26/100 on FoodScore, categorized as 'Avoid.' This is primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation rather than as a regular dietary staple.
How does Ember Farms sausage compare to other breakfast sausages?
Compared to many other prepared breakfast sausages, this Ember Farms product's nutritional profile, particularly its saturated fat and sodium levels, is similar to others in the category. For example, some brands like Jimmy Dean's regular pork sausage patties also contain comparable amounts of saturated fat and sodium. Opting for leaner turkey or chicken sausages, or making your own from scratch, would generally offer a more favorable nutritional profile.
What are 'corn syrup solids' in the ingredient list?
Corn syrup solids are a dried form of corn syrup, a sweetener derived from corn starch. They are used in this product to add sweetness and can also function as a binder or texturizer. While the added sugar content from ingredients like corn syrup solids and dextrose is relatively low in this specific product (1.22g per 100g), it still contributes to overall sugar intake.
What is a reasonable portion size for this sausage?
A reasonable portion size for this Ember Farms sausage is typically one patty. However, given its high saturated fat and sodium content, even a single patty contributes significantly to daily limits. For those aiming to reduce intake of these nutrients, consuming half a patty or pairing it with lower-sodium, lower-fat foods would be a practical approach.
Can I freeze these sausage patties?
Yes, these sausage patties are typically suitable for freezing if they are not already frozen. Freezing can help extend their shelf life and allow for convenient portioning. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. Always follow the manufacturer's storage instructions on the packaging.