HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite providing a good amount of protein.
This HORMEL ham has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the Decent category.
It provides 16.67g of protein per 100g serving, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 940.48mg per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike a home-cooked ham.
Consider serving smaller portions to manage sodium intake.
Scores +0 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
16.67g
33% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
940.48mg
41% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (16.7g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (940.5mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
The HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent.' This score reflects a balance of its nutritional contributions and processing level. On the positive side, the product offers a notable 16.67g of protein per 100g, which contributes a bonus of 10 points to its score. However, several factors lead to penalties. The ham contains 940.48mg of sodium per 100g, which is a high amount and results in a 4-point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, leading to a significant 10-point penalty. Ingredients like sodium nitrite and sodium phosphates are indicative of its processed nature. While it contains a small amount of added sugar (1.67g per 100g), this does not significantly impact the score. Compared to a home-cooked ham made with whole ingredients, this HORMEL product contains more additives and a higher sodium level, which are key differentiators in its FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hormel, cure 81, classic dinner ham actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This HORMEL ham provides 16.67g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, immune function, and the production of enzymes and hormones. Including adequate protein in meals can contribute to satiety, helping to manage appetite and support overall dietary goals. This makes it a useful component for meals where protein intake is a priority.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and cured product, this ham offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It requires minimal effort to serve, making it a practical option for busy individuals or families. Its ready-to-eat format can help in quickly assembling meals, which can be beneficial in situations where time for cooking from scratch is limited. This convenience can support consistent meal planning.
Versatile for Culinary Use
The classic flavor profile of this ham makes it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. It can be served as a main course, sliced for sandwiches, diced into salads, or incorporated into casseroles and breakfast items. Its ability to be used in multiple culinary applications means it can fit into diverse meal plans, offering flexibility for consumers looking for a ready-to-use protein source.
HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing a good amount of protein.
How to eat it
HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham is typically consumed as a main dish, often during holidays or family meals, or as a component in sandwiches and other recipes. A common portion size is around 3 ounces (85g). Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other salty foods.
To balance the high sodium, pair ham with fresh vegetables and whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.
Consider using smaller portions of ham and supplementing with leaner protein sources in mixed dishes.
Incorporate into a balanced meal with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Use as a flavor enhancer in dishes like split pea soup, rather than as the primary protein source, to manage sodium.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham, which is 940.48mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list also includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which some individuals prefer to limit. Modified potato starch and sodium phosphates are present as stabilizers and processing aids. While generally recognized as safe, the presence of multiple additives contributes to its ultra-processed classification.
HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham scores 46/100 on FoodScore, classifying it as 'Decent.' It offers a good amount of protein (16.67g per 100g) but is high in sodium (940.48mg per 100g) and is an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). While it can fit into a varied diet, it's best consumed in moderation, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake.
How does HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham compare to other hams?
Compared to a home-cooked ham prepared with whole ingredients, HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham is more processed and contains a higher sodium level due to curing agents like sodium nitrite. When compared to other pre-packaged hams like a Boar's Head deli ham, the nutritional profile can vary, but many processed hams will share similar characteristics regarding sodium and additives. Always check the specific nutrition label for direct comparisons.
What is sodium nitrite and why is it in this ham?
Sodium nitrite is a curing agent and preservative used in many processed meats, including this HORMEL ham. It helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum, and contributes to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured meats. While effective for food safety, some consumers choose to limit their intake of nitrites.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ham?
The declared serving size is 3 ounces (approximately 85g). Given the high sodium content, sticking to this portion size or even slightly less can help manage your intake. Pairing it with low-sodium foods and plenty of vegetables can create a more balanced meal without excessive sodium.
Can this ham be frozen for later use?
Yes, HORMEL CURE 81 Classic Dinner Ham can typically be frozen. For best quality, it's recommended to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging or an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Freezing can help extend its shelf life, allowing you to use it over a longer period while maintaining its flavor and texture.