PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content.
FoodScore: 44/100 (Poor).
Contains 26.3g of protein per 100g serving.
High sodium content at 1180.7mg per 100g is a significant concern.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike generic smoked fish.
Best consumed in small portions to manage sodium intake.
Scores +2 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
26.32g
53% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.22g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
1180.7mg
51% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (26.3g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (1180.7mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead achieved a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary positive contribution to its score is its protein content, providing 26.3g per 100g, which earned a bonus of 10 points. However, this product faces significant deductions. A major penalty of 6 points was applied due to its high sodium content, measuring 1180.7mg per 100g, which is well above recommended daily limits for a single serving. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is an ultra-processed food, leading to a substantial 10-point penalty. This classification is influenced by ingredients such as brown sugar and maple sugar, which are added for flavor and preservation beyond simple smoking. Compared to a generic, unbranded version of smoked steelhead, which would typically be less processed and have lower added sugars and potentially lower sodium, this PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD product's processing level and specific ingredient additions contribute to its lower FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific sustainable seafood, hot smoked steelhead actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Protein
This PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD product is an excellent source of protein, providing 26.3g per 100g serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety. Including adequate protein in your diet can help manage hunger and support a healthy metabolism. This makes it a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, particularly when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Meal Component
The hot smoked steelhead offers a convenient and ready-to-eat protein source that requires no additional cooking. This can be beneficial for busy individuals seeking quick meal solutions. Its preparation makes it easy to incorporate into various dishes, reducing meal preparation time. While convenient, it is important to balance this convenience with other less processed food choices throughout the day.
Flavorful Addition to Meals
The smoking process and added seasonings like salt, brown sugar, and maple sugar give this steelhead a distinct and savory flavor profile. This can enhance the palatability of meals and encourage consumption of fish, which can be a valuable part of a balanced diet. Using it as a flavor accent rather than a primary component can help manage intake of less desirable nutrients.
PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Hot smoked steelhead is typically eaten as a ready-to-eat protein, often flaked into salads, served on crackers, or incorporated into sandwiches. A common portion size is around 2 ounces (56g), which is less than the 100g used for nutrient calculations.
Pair with fresh vegetables and whole grains to create a more balanced meal and dilute the sodium content.
Use as a flavorful topping for salads or grain bowls, rather than the sole protein source, to control portion size.
Consider using smaller amounts, such as half a serving, to reduce sodium intake per meal.
Combine with unsalted ingredients like plain rice cakes or cucumber slices to balance the overall saltiness.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content in PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead, which is 1180.7mg per 100g. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly or in very small portions. The presence of brown sugar and maple sugar contributes to the added sugar content, though it is relatively low at 1.22g per 100g. As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it contains ingredients that have undergone significant industrial processing, which is a general consideration for overall dietary health. While steelhead is a fish, the processing and added ingredients differentiate it from a simply cooked fish fillet.
Is PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead healthy?
PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor). While it is a good source of protein, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food are significant nutritional drawbacks. It can be part of a diet in moderation, but it's not a primary healthy food choice.
How does PACIFIC SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD Hot Smoked Steelhead compare to other smoked fish products?
Compared to a generic, unbranded smoked steelhead, this product is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed) due to its ingredient list including brown sugar and maple sugar. Many generic smoked fish options may have fewer added ingredients and potentially lower sodium. For example, some brands like Ducktrap River of Maine offer smoked salmon with simpler ingredient lists.
What does 'FARM-RAISED, COLOR ADDED' mean in the ingredient list?
The 'FARM-RAISED' designation indicates the steelhead was raised in aquaculture rather than caught in the wild. 'COLOR ADDED' means that a substance, often astaxanthin, was added to the fish's feed to enhance the pinkish-orange color of its flesh, mimicking the color of wild salmonids.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). Given the high sodium content of 1180.7mg per 100g, sticking to this smaller portion size is advisable to manage your daily sodium intake. Even at 2 ounces, it contributes a notable amount of sodium.
Can I eat this product if I am trying to reduce my sugar intake?
This product contains 1.22g of added sugar per 100g, from ingredients like brown sugar and maple sugar. While this amount is relatively low compared to many other processed foods, individuals strictly monitoring sugar intake should be aware of its presence. For a truly no-sugar option, look for smoked fish prepared without any added sweeteners.