JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage receives a FoodScore of 48/100 (Decent), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 48/100 (Decent) for JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage.
Provides 15.6g of protein per 100g serving, contributing to satiety.
Contains 817.43mg of sodium per 100g, which is a significant amount.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider pairing with vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Scores +1 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
15.6g
31% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
817.43mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
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What holds it back
Sodium (817.4mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 48
JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage earned a FoodScore of 48 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product provides a substantial 15.6g of protein per 100g, which contributes 10 bonus points to its score. It also offers 10% DV of Vitamin A, adding 2 bonus points. However, the product faces significant penalties. Its sodium content is high at 817.43mg per 100g, resulting in a 4-point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food incurs a 10-point penalty. Ingredients like BHA and BHT are preservatives often found in ultra-processed items. Compared to a home-cooked Italian turkey sausage made with whole ingredients, this JENNIE-O product would likely contain more sodium and less fiber, and would not be classified as ultra-processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in jennie-o italian style turkey sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This JENNIE-O turkey sausage provides 15.6g of protein per 100g serving, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair. Protein is also known to promote satiety, helping individuals feel full and potentially manage overall calorie intake. Incorporating adequate protein into meals can support various bodily functions and energy levels throughout the day.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-seasoned and prepared product, this turkey sausage offers a convenient option for quick meal preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking from scratch, it can serve as a base for various dishes. Its ease of use means less time spent on seasoning and preparation, making it a practical choice for busy schedules.
Contains Vitamin A
The product contributes 10% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g serving. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source, this contribution can be part of a varied diet that includes other Vitamin A-rich foods.
JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage receives a FoodScore of 48/100 (Decent), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage is typically consumed as a main protein in breakfast dishes, pasta sauces, or as part of a sandwich. A common serving size is around 3.9 ounces, which is approximately 110 grams. Be mindful of its sodium content when pairing with other ingredients.
To create a more balanced meal, pair the sausage with a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
Consider using a smaller portion of the sausage and supplementing with plant-based proteins like beans or lentils to reduce overall sodium intake.
When preparing, drain any excess fat to potentially reduce the total fat content of your meal.
Use this sausage as a flavor base for homemade pasta sauces, allowing you to control the amount of added salt in the overall dish.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains BHA and BHT, which are synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies in small amounts, some individuals prefer to limit their intake of such additives. The high sodium content of 817.43mg per 100g is a consideration, particularly for individuals monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label beyond the turkey itself, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage receives a FoodScore of 48/100 (Decent). It offers a good amount of protein but is high in sodium and classified as ultra-processed. Its healthfulness depends on overall dietary context and portion control.
How does JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage compare to pork sausage?
Compared to many traditional pork sausages, JENNIE-O Italian Style Turkey Sausage often has lower saturated fat content and similar or slightly lower calorie counts. For example, a brand like Jimmy Dean's pork sausage might have higher fat. However, both can be high in sodium and may be ultra-processed.
What is the role of 'Spice Extractives' in this product?
Spice Extractives are concentrated forms of spices, used to provide flavor without adding the bulk of whole spices. They contribute to the Italian flavor profile of the sausage. This allows for consistent flavor delivery in processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this turkey sausage?
The declared serving size is 3.9 ounces (approximately 110g). This portion provides 15.6g of protein and 817.43mg of sodium. It's advisable to adhere to serving sizes to manage sodium intake, especially if consuming other high-sodium foods.
Can this sausage be frozen after purchase?
Yes, if not already frozen, this JENNIE-O turkey sausage can typically be frozen for later use. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain quality and prevent freezer burn. Always check the product packaging for specific freezing and thawing instructions.