ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY, HAM WITH NATURAL JUICES, HONEY, HONEY
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey scores 46/100 (Decent). Its high sodium content is the primary factor limiting a higher score.
This product has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a notable 17.86g of protein per 100g serving.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 1050mg per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from whole, unprocessed options.
Consider this product for occasional use due to its sodium levels.
Scores +14 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.86g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
1050mg
46% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (1050mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent.' The score is positively influenced by its protein content, providing 17.86g per 100g, which contributes a +10 bonus. Additionally, the presence of 1.93mg of iron, meeting 11% of the Daily Value, adds a minor +2 bonus. However, several factors significantly reduce the score. The product contains 3.57g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -1 penalty. A more substantial penalty of -5 is incurred due to its high sodium content of 1050mg per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food leads to a -10 penalty. Ingredients like sodium nitrite and carrageenan are indicative of its ultra-processed nature. Compared to a baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY product offers protein but also introduces considerable sodium and processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in essential everyday, ham with natural juices, honey, honey actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This ham product is a good source of protein, providing 17.86g per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for the repair and building of muscle tissue, as well as for producing enzymes and hormones. Including adequate protein in your diet can help with satiety and support overall body function. For individuals looking to meet their daily protein requirements, this product can contribute to that goal.
Contributes to Iron Intake
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey provides 1.93mg of iron per 100g, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body as part of hemoglobin in red blood cells. It also plays a role in energy production and immune function. While not a primary source, this product can help contribute to your daily iron needs, particularly for those who may need to increase their intake.
Convenient Protein Source
As a pre-cooked and packaged ham, this product offers a convenient option for quick meals or snacks. Its ready-to-eat format can be beneficial for busy individuals seeking a protein source without extensive preparation. This convenience can help ensure consistent protein intake, especially when time is limited, making it a practical choice for certain dietary needs.
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey scores 46/100 (Decent). Its high sodium content is the primary factor limiting a higher score.
How to eat it
Ham with natural juices is commonly consumed as a sandwich filling, added to salads, or incorporated into cooked dishes like omelets or casseroles. A typical portion might be 2-3 ounces, often served cold or lightly warmed. The primary pitfall is often the high sodium content when consumed regularly or in large amounts.
Pair with fresh vegetables and whole-grain bread to create a balanced sandwich, adding fiber and micronutrients.
Use smaller portions of ham and supplement with other protein sources like eggs or beans to manage sodium intake.
Incorporate into a salad with a variety of greens, fruits, and a light vinaigrette to enhance nutrient density.
Consider using it as a flavor enhancer in dishes rather than the main protein, such as in a small dice for a soup or stir-fry.
Be mindful of other high-sodium foods in the same meal to avoid exceeding daily recommended limits for sodium consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey, which is 1050mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list also includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, and carrageenan, a thickener. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to carrageenan. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label for this product, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
Is ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey healthy?
This ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY ham product scores 46/100, indicating it's a 'Decent' choice. It offers a good amount of protein (17.86g per 100g) and some iron. However, its high sodium content (1050mg per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food are factors to consider for overall dietary health. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham compare to other deli hams?
Compared to many other deli hams, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey's sodium level of 1050mg per 100g is on the higher side. For example, some brands like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Honey Ham may offer slightly lower sodium options. Always check the nutrition label, especially for sodium and saturated fat, when comparing different brands of deli meat to make an informed choice.
What is the role of 'sodium nitrite' in this product?
Sodium nitrite is a common ingredient in cured meats like ham. Its primary roles are to preserve the meat, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, and to contribute to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured ham. It acts as a preservative and is a standard component in many processed meat products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ham?
A reasonable portion size for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY Ham with Natural Juices, Honey, Honey is typically around 2-3 ounces (approximately 56-85g). This amount would provide a good source of protein while helping to manage the sodium intake. Consuming larger portions regularly could lead to exceeding daily sodium recommendations.
Can this ham be frozen for later use?
Yes, this ham can typically be frozen for later use to extend its shelf life. For best quality, it's recommended to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging or an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator before use and consume within a few days after thawing. Freezing can help reduce food waste.