NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE ITALIAN SAUSAGE, MILD from NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content.
FoodScore for this product is 40/100 (Poor).
Contains 23.9g of protein per 100g serving.
High in sodium with 929.58mg per 100g.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Consider pairing with vegetables to balance the meal.
Scores -6 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
23.94g
48% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
929.58mg
40% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (23.9g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.9g)-3
Sodium (929.6mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 40
NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE ITALIAN SAUSAGE, MILD from NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY receives a FoodScore of 40/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. Additionally, the product is penalized for its high sodium content, providing 929.58mg per 100g, resulting in a -4 point deduction. The saturated fat content, at 4.93g per 100g, also contributes a -3 point penalty. A further -3 points are applied due to its nature as a concentrated ultra-processed fat source. On the positive side, the product gains +10 points for its substantial protein content of 23.94g per 100g. However, the presence of ingredients like dextrose and sodium lactate further indicates its processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked Italian sausage made with whole ingredients, this product contains significantly more sodium and is less nutrient-dense overall.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in new york style sausage italian sausage, mild actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This Italian sausage provides a notable 23.94g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and growth, and contributes to satiety. Including a good source of protein in meals can help manage hunger throughout the day. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, this product can contribute to daily protein goals.
Convenient Meal Component
As a prepared food, this sausage offers convenience for quick meal preparation. It can be a practical option for busy individuals seeking a protein source without extensive cooking time. While it is an ultra-processed item, its ease of use can help in assembling meals when time is limited, provided other components of the meal are nutrient-dense.
Minimal Added Sugar
The product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive aspect given the prevalence of added sugars in many processed foods. This means it does not contribute to the intake of empty calories from added sugars. Consumers aiming to reduce their overall sugar consumption may find this characteristic beneficial, though other nutritional aspects should also be considered.
NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE ITALIAN SAUSAGE, MILD from NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Italian sausage is commonly pan-fried, grilled, or baked and incorporated into various dishes like pasta, sandwiches, or stews. A typical portion size is around 2.5 ounces, which is the declared serving size. A common pitfall is consuming it as the sole component of a meal, which can lead to a high intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Pair this sausage with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to enhance fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider using half the recommended serving size and supplementing with leaner protein sources such as beans or lentils to reduce sodium and saturated fat.
Incorporate into dishes like a vegetable frittata or a whole-wheat pasta primavera to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Drain any excess fat after cooking to slightly reduce the total fat content of your meal.
Use this sausage as a flavor enhancer in dishes rather than the main component, focusing on whole grains and fresh produce for bulk.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients like dextrose and sodium lactate, which are common in highly processed items. The high sodium content (929.58mg per 100g) is a significant concern, particularly for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. While the product does not list common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, or nuts, individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list. The concentrated fat content also warrants consideration for those managing fat intake.
Is NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY Italian Sausage, Mild healthy?
NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY Italian Sausage, Mild scores 40/100, which is considered Poor. While it offers a good amount of protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is best consumed in moderation and balanced with nutrient-dense, whole foods.
How does NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY Italian Sausage compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic fresh Italian sausage from a butcher, NEW YORK STYLE SAUSAGE COMPANY's product is likely to be more processed and contain higher levels of sodium and additives like sodium lactate. For example, brands like Johnsonville also offer Italian sausages, and their nutritional profiles would need to be compared directly to assess differences in sodium, fat, and processing levels.
What is dextrose in this product?
Dextrose is a simple sugar derived from corn, chemically identical to glucose. In this product, it is listed as part of the 'Seasonings' and likely functions as a flavor enhancer or a curing agent. While it contributes to the overall carbohydrate content, this product has 0g of added sugar, meaning the amount of dextrose is not significant enough to be classified as added sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this Italian sausage?
The declared serving size is 2.5 ounces (approximately 71g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium and saturated fat. For a balanced meal, consider pairing this portion with larger quantities of vegetables and a whole grain.
Can I eat this sausage if I am trying to reduce my saturated fat intake?
This product contains 4.93g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a moderate amount. If you are trying to reduce your saturated fat intake, it is advisable to consume this sausage in smaller portions or less frequently. Opting for leaner protein sources or plant-based alternatives more often would be beneficial for managing saturated fat.