FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidpreparedGWALTNEY· 2 FRIED SLICES

GWALTNEY, BEEF BACON

GWALTNEY Beef Bacon scores 28/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium and saturated fat content.

  • GWALTNEY Beef Bacon has a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid).
  • It provides a notable 40g of protein per 100g serving.
  • A significant concern is the 1533.33mg of sodium per 100g.
  • This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
  • Consider this product for occasional use in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
  • Scores -18 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
40g
80% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1533.33mg
67% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (40g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
What holds it back
Saturated fat (13.3g)-15
Sodium (1533.3mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 28

GWALTNEY Beef Bacon receives a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is heavily influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it offers a substantial 40g of protein per 100g, contributing a +10 bonus. It also provides some micronutrients, specifically 10% DV for calcium and 27% DV for iron, adding +4 to its score. However, significant penalties impact the overall rating. The product contains 13.33g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -15 penalty. Its high sodium content of 1533.33mg per 100g leads to an -8 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food incurs a -10 penalty, reflecting its formulation with industrial ingredients and processes. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat adds another -3 penalty. Ingredients like sodium nitrite are common in processed meats and contribute to the ultra-processed classification. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this GWALTNEY product contains significantly higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and lacks the beneficial compounds often found in less processed foods.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in gwaltney, beef bacon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

GWALTNEY Beef Bacon is a significant source of protein, providing 40g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger and support metabolic functions. While this product delivers protein, it is important to consider the accompanying fat and sodium content when incorporating it into a balanced diet.

Iron Contribution

This product contributes 4.8mg of iron per 100g, which is 27% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness. While GWALTNEY Beef Bacon provides iron, it should be consumed as part of a varied diet that includes other iron-rich foods.

Calcium Content

GWALTNEY Beef Bacon provides 133.33mg of calcium per 100g, meeting 10% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can contribute to your daily calcium intake. It is important to balance this contribution with other calcium sources that may have a more favorable nutrient profile.

How to eat it

Beef bacon is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often alongside eggs, toast, or pancakes, or as an addition to sandwiches and salads. A common portion is two fried slices, which is the declared serving size. Due to its high sodium and fat content, it's best enjoyed in moderation.

Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-wheat toast or a side of vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Use small amounts to add flavor to dishes, rather than making it the main component, to help manage sodium intake.
Consider using beef bacon as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to align with dietary guidelines.
Blot excess fat after cooking to reduce the total fat content per serving.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content in GWALTNEY Beef Bacon, which is 1533.33mg per 100g. High sodium intake can contribute to elevated blood pressure in some individuals. The product also contains sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which has been a subject of discussion regarding its potential health effects when consumed in large quantities. Individuals with existing cardiovascular concerns or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. As an ultra-processed food, it may contain ingredients that some individuals prefer to limit in their diet.

Swap suggestions
Very good
POLAR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE
Score85
Very good
365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET ORGANIC RED LENTILS
Score84
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SOYBEAN OIL
Score84
Very good
GREAT VALUE GARBANZOS CHICK PEAS
Score84
Very good
O ORGANICS ORGANIC GARBANZO BEANS
Score84
Very good
ONE DEGREE ORGANIC FOODS ORGANIC GREEN LENTILS
Score84
Reader questions
Is GWALTNEY Beef Bacon healthy?
GWALTNEY Beef Bacon has a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in sodium and saturated fat, and classified as ultra-processed. While it provides protein and some iron, its overall nutrient profile suggests moderation.
How does GWALTNEY Beef Bacon compare to other bacon brands?
Compared to traditional pork bacon brands like Oscar Mayer, GWALTNEY Beef Bacon shares similar concerns regarding high sodium and saturated fat. While the protein content is notable, both types of bacon are typically high in processed ingredients and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is sodium nitrite in GWALTNEY Beef Bacon?
Sodium nitrite is an ingredient used in GWALTNEY Beef Bacon as a preservative and to give cured meats their characteristic color and flavor. It helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. While approved for use, some individuals choose to limit their intake of foods containing nitrites.
What is a reasonable portion size for GWALTNEY Beef Bacon?
The declared serving size for GWALTNEY Beef Bacon is 2 fried slices. This portion helps manage the intake of sodium and saturated fat. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase your intake of these nutrients, making it harder to adhere to dietary guidelines.
Can GWALTNEY Beef Bacon be part of a low-carb diet?
Yes, GWALTNEY Beef Bacon is naturally low in carbohydrates, with 0g of fiber and 0g of added sugar per 100g. This makes it suitable for individuals following low-carb or ketogenic diets. However, its high sodium and saturated fat content should still be considered within the context of overall dietary health.

Explore more

CategoryAll prepared foods BrandAll GWALTNEY SKUs Competitor · 85/100POLAR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE Competitor · 84/100365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET ORGANIC RED LENTILS Head-to-headGWALTNEY, BEEF BACON vs. POLAR SARDINES IN TOMATO SAUCE Head-to-headGWALTNEY, BEEF BACON vs. 365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET ORGANIC RED LENTILS Head-to-headGWALTNEY, BEEF BACON vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SOYBEAN OIL Head-to-headGWALTNEY, BEEF BACON vs. GREAT VALUE GARBANZOS CHICK PEAS Fits dietKeto diet →

Data & references