Farmland BACN,VAC,TRAYPAK,FL,12/48OZ receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**.
This product scores 22/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 1727.27mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
With 27.27g of protein per 100g, it offers a notable protein contribution.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to generic bacon, this Farmland product has a similar nutritional profile.
Scores -20 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
27.27g
55% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1727.27mg
75% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (27.3g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (18.2g)-15
Sodium (1727.3mg)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 22
Farmland BACN,VAC,TRAYPAK,FL,12/48OZ earns a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by several factors. While it receives a bonus of +10 points for its protein content, providing 27.3g per 100g, this is significantly offset by penalties. The product incurs a -15 point penalty due to its high saturated fat content of 18.2g per 100g. Additionally, its elevated sodium level of 1727.3mg per 100g results in a -10 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is classified as ultra-processed, leading to another -10 point deduction. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat further contributes a -3 point penalty. Ingredients like sodium nitrite and sodium erythorbate are common preservatives in cured meats, contributing to its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic unbranded version of bacon, this Farmland product presents a very similar nutritional profile and score, indicating it aligns with typical bacon characteristics rather than offering a distinct nutritional advantage.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in farmland bacn,vac,traypak,fl,12/48oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This Farmland product provides 27.27g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and plays a role in various bodily functions. Including protein in meals can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day. For individuals looking to increase their protein consumption, a serving of this product can be a convenient option, though other nutritional aspects should be considered.
Energy Contribution
With 818.18 calories per 100g, this product is energy-dense, providing a substantial amount of calories in a small serving. This can be beneficial for individuals with high energy demands, such as athletes or those requiring additional caloric intake. However, for most individuals, the high caloric density, primarily from fat, means that portion control is crucial to avoid excessive calorie consumption that could lead to weight gain. The energy provided is primarily from fat and protein.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
Bacon, including this Farmland SKU, is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavor of many dishes. While not a health benefit in itself, its strong flavor profile means a small amount can significantly impact the taste of a meal, potentially making healthier dishes more appealing. It can be used to add savory notes to vegetables, salads, or lean protein dishes, encouraging consumption of other nutrient-dense foods. This product's role as a flavor enhancer can be a practical benefit in meal preparation.
Farmland BACN,VAC,TRAYPAK,FL,12/48OZ receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content.
How to eat it
Bacon is commonly consumed as a breakfast item, often alongside eggs or pancakes, or as an addition to sandwiches, salads, and other dishes. A typical serving size is one pan-fried slice. Due to its high fat and sodium content, moderation is key.
Pair bacon with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast or a large portion of vegetables to balance the meal.
Use bacon as a flavor accent rather than the main protein; a small amount can add significant taste to dishes like salads or roasted vegetables.
Consider draining excess fat after cooking to reduce the overall fat content of your meal.
When incorporating bacon into a meal, be mindful of other high-sodium ingredients to avoid exceeding daily sodium recommendations.
Things to keep in mind
This product is cured with sodium nitrite and sodium erythorbate, common preservatives in processed meats. Sodium nitrite, while effective in preventing bacterial growth and preserving color, has been a subject of discussion regarding its potential to form nitrosamines under certain conditions, which are compounds of concern. The high sodium content of 1727.27mg per 100g is a significant consideration, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The product is also classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which is generally associated with diets that may have negative health implications when consumed regularly. There are no declared allergens on the label.
Farmland BACN,VAC,TRAYPAK,FL,12/48OZ receives a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption. Its high saturated fat and sodium content are the primary reasons for this score. While it offers protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a 'healthy' food for frequent inclusion in a balanced diet.
How does Farmland BACN,VAC,TRAYPAK,FL,12/48OZ compare to other bacon brands?
Compared to a generic unbranded version of bacon, this Farmland product has a very similar nutritional profile and FoodScore. When considering other popular brands like Oscar Mayer bacon, the nutritional content, particularly in terms of saturated fat and sodium, tends to be comparable across the category. Differences are often minor and relate to specific curing processes or slice thickness.
What is the role of sodium nitrite in this product?
Sodium nitrite is used in Farmland bacon as a curing agent. Its primary functions are to preserve the meat, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, and contribute to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured meats. It is a common ingredient in many processed meat products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bacon?
The declared serving size is one pan-fried slice. Given the high calorie, fat, and sodium content per 100g, adhering to this portion size is important for moderation. Consuming multiple slices can quickly lead to a significant intake of saturated fat and sodium, exceeding daily recommendations.
Can I eat this bacon if I am on a low-sodium diet?
Due to its very high sodium content of 1727.27mg per 100g, this Farmland bacon is not suitable for individuals on a low-sodium diet. Even a single slice will contribute a substantial amount of sodium to your daily intake. It would be best to choose very low-sodium alternatives or avoid bacon altogether if you are strictly limiting sodium.