PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This PATRICK CUDAHY ham steak has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a Decent nutritional profile.
A 100g serving provides 16.67g of protein, a notable strength for satiety.
The product contains 1059.52mg of sodium per 100g, a significant concern for daily intake.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike plain water or unsweetened beverages.
Consider portion control and pairing with low-sodium foods to balance its nutritional impact.
Scores +13 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
16.67g
33% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
1059.52mg
46% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Protein (16.7g)+10
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What holds it back
Sodium (1059.5mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
The PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by both positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product provides a substantial amount of protein, with 16.67g per 100g, which contributes a +10 bonus to its score. However, several factors significantly reduce its overall score. The most impactful is its high sodium content, at 1059.52mg per 100g, resulting in a -5 penalty. This amount represents a considerable portion of the daily recommended sodium intake. Additionally, the presence of ingredients like sodium nitrite and sodium phosphate, along with its overall formulation, classifies this product as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed. This classification incurs a -10 penalty, reflecting the general dietary guidelines to limit such foods. While it contains a small amount of added sugar (1.67g per 100g), this amount is not high enough to trigger a significant penalty. Compared to a baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this ham steak offers protein but also introduces high levels of sodium and processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in patrick cudahy sweet apple-wood smoke flavor ham off the bone ham steak, sweet apple-wood smoke actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This PATRICK CUDAHY ham steak is a good source of protein, providing 16.67g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for building and repairing tissues, including muscle. Including adequate protein in meals can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help manage overall calorie intake. For individuals looking to increase their protein consumption, this product can be a convenient option, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
Convenient Protein Source for Quick Meals
As a pre-cooked ham steak, this product offers convenience for meal preparation. Its ready-to-eat format makes it a quick addition to breakfast, lunch, or dinner, reducing cooking time. For busy individuals or those seeking easy protein options, it can serve as a base for a meal. The ease of preparation can help ensure consistent protein intake, which is beneficial for various dietary goals.
Provides Essential Iron
The ham steak contributes a modest amount of iron, with 0.86mg per 100g, accounting for 5% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet rich in other iron-containing foods. It's important to combine it with vitamin C sources to enhance iron absorption.
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK is typically consumed as a main protein component of a meal, often for breakfast or lunch. Common portion sizes are around 3 ounces (85g), which is the declared serving size. A common pitfall is consuming it frequently without balancing its high sodium content with other low-sodium foods.
To mitigate the high sodium content, pair this ham steak with fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains that are naturally low in sodium.
Consider using a smaller portion of the ham steak and supplementing your protein with eggs or beans to reduce overall sodium intake per meal.
Chop and add to a salad with a light, homemade vinaigrette to distribute the flavor and sodium across a larger volume of food.
Instead of frying, try baking or grilling the ham steak to avoid adding extra fats and to complement its sweet apple-wood smoke flavor.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK is its high sodium content, at over 1000mg per 100g. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to limit sodium intake should consume this product sparingly and be mindful of other sodium sources in their diet. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, which some individuals may choose to limit. The product also contains dextrose and brown sugar, contributing to its added sugar content, though in a relatively small amount. As a processed meat, it is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing. There are no declared allergens on the label that would typically trigger common sensitivities like milk, soy, or nuts.
Is PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKE FLAVOR HAM OFF THE BONE HAM STEAK healthy?
With a FoodScore of 45/100, this ham steak is considered 'Decent.' It offers a good amount of protein, but its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a primary source of vitamins or minerals beyond protein and a small amount of iron.
How does PATRICK CUDAHY ham steak compare to other ham products?
Compared to other cured ham products, the PATRICK CUDAHY ham steak's nutritional profile is similar in terms of protein and sodium. For instance, a brand like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Smoked Ham also contains significant sodium. Opting for fresh, uncured pork or poultry would generally provide a lower sodium and less processed alternative.
What is 'sodium nitrite' in the ingredient list?
Sodium nitrite is a common food additive used in cured meats like this ham steak. It serves as a preservative to prevent bacterial growth, particularly *Clostridium botulinum*, and also contributes to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured meats. Some individuals choose to limit their intake of foods containing sodium nitrite due to health concerns, though it is approved for use by regulatory bodies.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ham steak?
The declared serving size for this PATRICK CUDAHY ham steak is 3 ounces (approximately 85g). This portion provides about 14g of protein and 900mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion size, or even smaller, is advisable to manage sodium intake effectively, especially if you consume other sodium-containing foods throughout the day.
Can this ham steak be part of a low-carb diet?
Yes, this ham steak is naturally low in carbohydrates with 0g of fiber and only 1.67g of added sugar per 100g. It can fit into a low-carb eating plan as a protein source. However, individuals on a low-carb diet should still be mindful of the high sodium content and balance it with other low-sodium foods.