GWALTNEY TRADITIONAL CHICKEN BOLOGNA, PORK & BEEF ADDED
GWALTNEY TRADITIONAL CHICKEN BOLOGNA, PORK & BEEF ADDED scores 34/100 (Poor). Its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content are the primary factors driving this low score.
This GWALTNEY bologna has a FoodScore of 34/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
A single serving contains 1059.38mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains much higher levels of sodium and saturated fat.
Consider this product for occasional consumption due to its high sodium and saturated fat content.
Scores -12 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1059.38mg
46% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.5g)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.3g)-6
Sodium (1059.4mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 34
GWALTNEY TRADITIONAL CHICKEN BOLOGNA, PORK & BEEF ADDED receives a FoodScore of 34 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. The product's high sodium content is another major detractor, with 1059.38mg per 100g leading to a -5 point penalty. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 6.25g per 100g results in a -6 point penalty, further compounded by a -3 point penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While the product does provide 12.5g of protein per 100g, earning a +8 point bonus, this is not enough to offset the substantial penalties. Ingredients like mechanically separated chicken and sodium nitrite are indicative of its highly processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked bologna made with whole ingredients, this GWALTNEY product contains significantly more sodium and saturated fat, and lacks the beneficial micronutrients often found in less processed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in gwaltney traditional chicken bologna, pork & beef added actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This GWALTNEY bologna provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals can contribute to satiety, helping to manage hunger throughout the day. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, this product can contribute to daily protein goals, especially when combined with other protein sources.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and sliced product, this bologna offers convenience for quick meal preparation. It can be easily incorporated into sandwiches, wraps, or as a component of a larger meal without requiring extensive cooking. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, having readily available protein sources like this can help ensure consistent food intake, fitting into a busy schedule.
Provides Iron
This product contains 1.12mg of iron per 100g, which is 6% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body as part of hemoglobin, and it plays a role in energy metabolism. While not a primary source, this contribution can be part of a varied diet to help meet daily iron needs, particularly for those who may struggle to consume enough iron from other sources.
GWALTNEY TRADITIONAL CHICKEN BOLOGNA, PORK & BEEF ADDED scores 34/100 (Poor). Its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content are the primary factors driving this low score.
How to eat it
Bologna is commonly consumed in the US as a lunch meat, typically in sandwiches or fried. A common portion size is 1-2 slices. It is often paired with bread and condiments, which can add to the overall sodium and calorie content. Moderation is key due to its high sodium and saturated fat.
Pair GWALTNEY bologna with whole-grain bread and plenty of vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber to add fiber and micronutrients.
Consider using only one slice of bologna per sandwich to manage sodium intake, and supplement with lean protein like turkey or chicken breast.
Instead of frying, try heating slices in a dry pan or air fryer for a few minutes to achieve a crisp texture without adding extra fat.
Use bologna as an occasional ingredient in a diverse diet, rather than a daily staple, to limit exposure to ultra-processed components.
Things to keep in mind
This GWALTNEY bologna contains several ingredients common in ultra-processed meats. The presence of sodium nitrite is a preservative used to prevent bacterial growth and maintain color, but its consumption has been a subject of ongoing research regarding potential health implications. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should be particularly mindful of this product's high sodium content (1059.38mg per 100g). The ingredient list also includes mechanically separated chicken, which is a common component in processed poultry products. While generally recognized as safe, consumers seeking less processed options may prefer products made with whole muscle meats.
GWALTNEY TRADITIONAL CHICKEN BOLOGNA, PORK & BEEF ADDED has a FoodScore of 34/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile. It is an ultra-processed food high in sodium and saturated fat. While it provides some protein, it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does GWALTNEY bologna compare to other brands?
Compared to other processed bologna brands like Oscar Mayer Classic Bologna, GWALTNEY bologna shares similar nutritional characteristics, including high sodium and saturated fat. For a less processed option, consider deli-sliced turkey or chicken breast, which typically have lower sodium and fat content.
What is 'mechanically separated chicken' in the ingredient list?
Mechanically separated chicken is a paste-like poultry product produced by forcing bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in many processed meat products like bologna and hot dogs, contributing to the product's texture and protein content.
What is a recommended portion size for this bologna?
The declared serving size is 1 slice. Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, limiting consumption to this portion size or even less, and not consuming it daily, would be a prudent approach to manage intake of these nutrients.
Does this bologna contain added sugar?
The ingredient list includes dextrose, which is a type of sugar. However, the nutrition facts panel states 0g of added sugar per 100g. This suggests that while a sugar is present, the amount is nutritionally insignificant per serving, or it is fully consumed during processing.
Can I eat this bologna if I am on a low-sodium diet?
No, this GWALTNEY bologna is very high in sodium, with over 1000mg per 100g. It would not be suitable for individuals following a low-sodium diet. It is important to check the nutrition label for sodium content when managing dietary sodium intake.