ORGANIC VALLEY UNCURED ORGANIC PEPPERONI, UNCURED scores 33/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and significant saturated fat, despite providing a good amount of protein.
This product has a FoodScore of 33/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A serving provides 21.4g of protein, contributing to satiety.
The primary concern is the high sodium content at 1678.57mg per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), similar to most pepperoni products.
Consume in small portions due to its concentrated calorie and fat content.
Scores -9 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
21.39g
43% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1678.57mg
73% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (1678.6mg)-9
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 33
ORGANIC VALLEY UNCURED ORGANIC PEPPERONI, UNCURED receives a FoodScore of 33 out of 100, classifying it as 'Poor'. This score is primarily driven by its nutritional composition, which includes significant penalties. The product is penalized for its high saturated fat content, contributing 10.71g per 100g, and its very high sodium level at 1678.57mg per 100g. Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 food, it incurs a penalty for being processed. On the positive side, ORGANIC VALLEY pepperoni receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 21.39g per 100g, and for its Vitamin A content, which is 79% of the Daily Value. The ingredient list includes organic pork and organic beef as primary components, along with sea salt and organic cane sugar. While the product is uncured, the overall nutrient density, particularly the high sodium, significantly impacts its FoodScore compared to a generic unbranded pepperoni.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in organic valley uncured organic pepperoni, uncured actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This pepperoni provides 21.39g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair. Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a role in numerous bodily functions, including enzyme production and immune support. Incorporating protein-rich foods into meals can also help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially aiding in weight management when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Provides Vitamin A
ORGANIC VALLEY UNCURED ORGANIC PEPPERONI, UNCURED contains 79% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and cellular communication. It supports the health of the skin and mucous membranes. While pepperoni is not typically considered a primary source of vitamins, the amount present in this product can contribute to daily intake, especially when consumed alongside other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Organic Option
For individuals seeking organic meat products, this pepperoni offers a convenient choice made with organic pork and organic beef. The 'organic' certification means the animals were raised without synthetic hormones or antibiotics, and fed organic feed. While the nutritional profile still warrants moderation due to its fat and sodium content, it provides an option for those prioritizing organic ingredients in their diet for specific dietary preferences or environmental considerations.
ORGANIC VALLEY UNCURED ORGANIC PEPPERONI, UNCURED scores 33/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium content and significant saturated fat, despite providing a good amount of protein.
How to eat it
Pepperoni is typically consumed as a topping for pizza, in sandwiches, or as a snack. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient density, small portions are usually sufficient. A common serving size is about 1 ounce, which is significantly less than the 100g reference amount.
Pair with fresh vegetables: Combine a small amount of pepperoni with a large salad or vegetable sticks to balance the meal with fiber and micronutrients.
Use as a flavor enhancer: Instead of making pepperoni the main component, use a few slices to add a savory flavor boost to dishes like omelets or pasta sauces.
Portion control: Be mindful of serving sizes; a few slices can quickly add up in terms of sodium and saturated fat. Consider using a food scale to understand a 1-ounce portion.
Balance with whole grains: If using in sandwiches or on crackers, opt for whole-grain bread or crackers to increase fiber intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product is high in sodium, with 1678.57mg per 100g, which is a significant amount. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes cultured celery powder, which is a common way to provide nitrates in uncured meats, acting as a preservative. While it is organic, the overall processing (NOVA 3) means it is not a whole food. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with sensitivities to pork or beef should be aware of the primary ingredients.
Is ORGANIC VALLEY UNCURED ORGANIC PEPPERONI, UNCURED healthy?
With a FoodScore of 33/100, this pepperoni is considered 'Poor' nutritionally. While it offers protein and some Vitamin A, its high saturated fat and sodium content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. It is not a food to rely on for significant nutritional benefits.
How does ORGANIC VALLEY pepperoni compare to other brands like Hormel?
Compared to many conventional pepperoni brands like Hormel, ORGANIC VALLEY's product is made with organic pork and organic beef and uses organic spices. Nutritionally, it shares similar challenges with high saturated fat and sodium, which are common characteristics of most pepperoni products across brands. The 'uncured' aspect means it uses natural sources of nitrates like cultured celery powder.
What is 'cultured celery powder' in the ingredients?
Cultured celery powder is a natural ingredient used in 'uncured' meat products like this pepperoni. It contains naturally occurring nitrates that, through the culturing process, are converted to nitrites. These nitrites act as a preservative and contribute to the characteristic color and flavor of cured meats, without adding synthetic nitrates or nitrites.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pepperoni?
A reasonable portion size is typically around 1 ounce (28g), which is much smaller than the 100g reference used for the nutritional data. This smaller portion would still contribute a notable amount of sodium and saturated fat, so mindful consumption is key. Consider it a flavor accent rather than a primary food source.
Can I eat this pepperoni if I'm trying to reduce processed foods?
This product is classified as NOVA 3, meaning it is a processed food. While it uses organic ingredients and is 'uncured,' it still undergoes significant processing. If your goal is to strictly reduce processed foods, this pepperoni would not align with that objective. Focus on whole, minimally processed foods instead.