JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives a bonus for its protein content, providing 14.3g per 100g, which contributes to satiety and muscle maintenance. However, several factors significantly penalize its score. The most impactful penalty comes from its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which detracts 10 points. This classification is due to the presence of multiple industrial ingredients and additives like potassium lactate, carrageenan, and sodium nitrite. Additionally, the high sodium content of 910.71mg per 100g incurs a 4-point penalty, a substantial amount that can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake. While the product contains a small amount of added sugar (1.25g per 100g), this is not a major scoring factor here. Compared to a home-cooked turkey ham made with whole ingredients, the JENNIE-O product contains more additives and significantly higher sodium.
What the nutrients in jennie-o, lean turkey ham actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM provides 14.3g of protein per 100g, making it a good source of dietary protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including protein in meals can help promote feelings of fullness and contribute to muscle maintenance, especially important for active individuals or those managing their weight. This product can be a convenient way to add protein to a meal or snack.
This product is relatively low in saturated fat, with only 1.79g per 100g. Diets lower in saturated fat are generally recommended for cardiovascular health. Choosing leaner protein sources like turkey ham, when compared to some higher-fat processed meats, can be a strategy to manage overall intake of saturated fats. This makes JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM a suitable option for those monitoring their fat intake.
As a pre-cooked and sliced product, JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It can be quickly added to sandwiches, salads, or wraps without additional cooking, saving time. For individuals with busy schedules, having readily available protein sources can help in assembling balanced meals, potentially reducing reliance on less nutritious fast food options. Its ease of use makes it a practical choice for quick meals.
JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM is typically consumed as a cold cut in sandwiches, wraps, or diced into salads. A common portion size is around 2 ounces (56g), which aligns with the declared serving size. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other salty foods.
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in JENNIE-O LEAN TURKEY HAM, which is 910.71mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to limit sodium intake should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which contributes to the product's shelf stability and color but is also a source of sodium. The presence of carrageenan, a food additive, may be a concern for some individuals sensitive to it, though it is generally recognized as safe. This product is not a significant source of allergens like milk, soy, or wheat based on the ingredient list provided.