PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product scores 22/100 on FoodScore, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 1710.71mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g, this SKU is high in saturated fat.
Classified as NOVA 4, PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI is an ultra-processed food.
Consider this product for occasional use in small portions due to its nutrient profile.
Scores -20 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.89g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
1710.71mg
74% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (1710.7mg)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 22
PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI earns a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its unfavorable fat and sodium profile, alongside its processing level. Per 100g, it contains 14.29g of saturated fat, which incurs a significant penalty of -15 points. The sodium content is also notably high at 1710.71mg per 100g, leading to a -10 point deduction. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional -10 point penalty. Furthermore, the product is penalized -3 points for being a concentrated source of ultra-processed fat. While it does offer 17.89g of protein per 100g, earning a +10 point bonus, this is not enough to offset the other nutritional drawbacks. The presence of ingredients like sodium nitrite and BHA/BHT further contributes to its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic hard salami, PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI's nutritional profile is similar, reflecting the typical composition of this food category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in patrick cudahy hard salami actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI provides 17.89g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger, which may be beneficial for overall dietary balance. This product can contribute to daily protein intake when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Convenient Food Option
This hard salami offers a convenient and ready-to-eat protein source that requires no preparation. Its shelf-stable nature makes it a practical option for quick snacks or additions to meals, especially when time is limited. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its convenience can be a factor for individuals seeking easy food solutions.
Flavor Contribution
Hard salami, including PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI, is known for its distinctive savory and umami flavor. When used in small quantities, it can enhance the taste of dishes, potentially making more nutrient-dense foods, such as salads or vegetable platters, more appealing. This can be a strategy to encourage consumption of other beneficial foods.
PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 22/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Hard salami is typically consumed as a cold cut, often in sandwiches, on charcuterie boards, or as a snack. Given its high sodium and fat content, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. A common serving is 6 slices, which is equivalent to about 28 grams.
Pair with fresh vegetables: Combine a small portion of salami with a large serving of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance the meal with fiber and micronutrients.
Use as a flavor accent: Instead of making it the main protein, use a few slices of salami to add flavor to dishes like pasta sauces or scrambled eggs.
Mindful portioning: Adhere to the recommended serving size of 6 slices or less to control sodium and saturated fat intake.
Combine with whole grains: If used in a sandwich, opt for 100% whole grain bread to increase fiber and nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI, which is 1710.71mg per 100g. High sodium intake can contribute to elevated blood pressure in some individuals. The product also contains sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, and antioxidants BHA and BHT. While approved for use, some individuals prefer to limit intake of these additives. Due to its high sodium and saturated fat, individuals with cardiovascular concerns or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. There are no common allergens declared on the label for this specific SKU.
PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI receives a FoodScore of 22/100, categorized as 'Avoid.' This is primarily due to its high levels of sodium and saturated fat, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a food to be consumed regularly for health benefits.
How does PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI compare to other brands?
Compared to other hard salami brands like Hormel or Oscar Mayer, PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI has a similar nutritional profile typical for this category of cured meats. Most hard salamis are high in sodium and saturated fat. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons, as values can vary slightly between products.
What is the role of sodium nitrite in this product?
Sodium nitrite is an ingredient used in PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI as a preservative and for color fixation. It helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly Clostridium botulinum, and contributes to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured meats. It is a common additive in many processed meat products.
What is a reasonable portion size for hard salami?
A reasonable portion size for PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI, as indicated on the label, is 6 slices (about 28g). Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, it is advisable to stick to this portion or even smaller amounts. Using it as a flavor enhancer rather than a primary protein source can help manage intake.
Can I eat hard salami if I am trying to reduce my sodium intake?
If you are trying to reduce your sodium intake, consuming PATRICK CUDAHY HARD SALAMI should be done with caution and very sparingly. With 1710.71mg of sodium per 100g, even a small serving contributes significantly to daily sodium limits. Consider lower-sodium protein alternatives if you are monitoring your sodium intake.