FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidpreparedJOHN MORRELL· 2 ONZ

JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE

JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**, alongside being an ultra-processed food.

  • This JOHN MORRELL product received a FoodScore of 24/100, indicating it should be avoided.
  • It contains 1180.36mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 8.93g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds recommended daily limits.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food with minimal nutritional benefits.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
  • Scores -22 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
10.7g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.75g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
1180.36mg
51% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.7g)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.8g)-2
Saturated fat (8.9g)-11
Sodium (1180.4mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 24

The JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE receives a FoodScore of 24 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by several nutritional factors. A significant penalty of -11 points is incurred due to its high saturated fat content of 8.93g per 100g, which is a substantial portion of daily recommended limits. The product also contains 1180.36mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -6 point penalty, highlighting its high sodium level. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, results in a -10 point penalty. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat adds another -3 penalty. While it does offer 10.7g of protein per 100g, contributing a +6 bonus, this is outweighed by the numerous penalties. The inclusion of ingredients like corn syrup and dextrose contributes to 3.75g of added sugar, resulting in a -2 penalty. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product contains significantly higher levels of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars, and lacks fiber and many micronutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in john morrell polish sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE provides 10.7g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in various bodily functions. While this product is not a primary source of protein for a balanced diet, it can help meet protein needs when consumed as part of a meal. The protein content comes from mechanically separated chicken and pork, along with pork hearts and beef hearts.

Convenient Meal Component

This product offers convenience as a quick meal component. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, it can be easily heated and added to dishes. Its ready-to-eat format makes it a practical option for busy schedules, allowing for rapid assembly of a meal. However, it is important to balance this convenience with other nutrient-dense foods to ensure a well-rounded dietary intake.

Energy Contribution

With 321.43 calories per 100g, JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE provides a significant energy boost. This can be useful for individuals with higher energy requirements, such as those engaging in strenuous physical activity. The calories primarily come from its fat content. It's important to consider the overall energy balance in your diet to avoid excessive calorie intake, especially given the high saturated fat and sodium levels.

How to eat it

JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE is typically consumed as part of a main meal, often grilled, pan-fried, or boiled. Common portion sizes are around 2 ounces. Due to its high sodium and fat content, moderation is key to avoid overconsumption of these nutrients.

Pair with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cabbage to add fiber and micronutrients.
Cut the sausage into smaller pieces and use it as a flavorful accent in dishes like soups or stews, rather than the main protein.
Consider using half a serving and supplementing with a leaner protein source to reduce overall fat and sodium intake.
Serve with whole grain bread or a side of brown rice to add complex carbohydrates and fiber to your meal.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (1180.36mg per 100g) in JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE, which can be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to limit sodium intake. The product also contains sodium nitrite, a common preservative in processed meats, which some individuals choose to limit in their diet. The ingredient list includes mechanically separated chicken, which is a processed meat component. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives like modified food starch or those monitoring their intake of added sugars (from corn syrup and dextrose) should review the ingredient list carefully. There are no declared common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the label, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities.

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Reader questions
Is JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE healthy?
JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE received a FoodScore of 24/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' food. This is primarily due to its high levels of saturated fat and sodium, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed infrequently and in small portions.
How does JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE compare to other brands?
Compared to a less processed alternative like Applegate Organics Uncured Beef Hot Dogs, JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE generally contains higher sodium and saturated fat. Many other brands in the processed sausage category share similar nutritional challenges, often being high in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is 'mechanically separated chicken' in this product?
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 and contributes to the overall protein content, but it is a highly processed component.
What is a reasonable portion size for JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces. Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to this portion size or even less is advisable. Pairing it with nutrient-dense foods like vegetables can help balance the meal and reduce the impact of less desirable nutrients.
Can I eat JOHN MORRELL POLISH SAUSAGE if I'm trying to lose weight?
While it can fit into a weight loss diet in very small, infrequent portions, its high calorie and fat density (321.43 calories per 100g) makes it less ideal for regular consumption. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods that are lower in calories and higher in nutrients is generally more effective for weight management.

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