PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON scores 17/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**, along with being an ultra-processed food.
This PATRICK CUDAHY bacon receives a FoodScore of 17/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A serving contains 1769.23mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to home-cooked bacon, this product has higher sodium and includes several additives.
Consider this product for occasional use in small portions to manage sodium and fat intake.
Scores -29 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
23.08g
46% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.38g
11% of Daily Value
Sodium
1769.23mg
77% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (23.1g)+10
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.4g)-5
Saturated fat (15.4g)-15
Sodium (1769.2mg)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 17
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON receives a FoodScore of 17/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its unfavorable nutrient profile and processing level. A 100g serving contains 1769.23mg of sodium, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. The product also has a high saturated fat content at 15.38g per 100g, leading to a -15 point deduction. While it provides 23.08g of protein, earning a +10 bonus, this is offset by the penalties. The presence of 5.38g of added sugar, listed as 'sugar' in the ingredients, also contributes a -5 point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, results in a -10 point deduction, with an additional -3 for being a concentrated ultra-processed fat. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this PATRICK CUDAHY product contains several food additives like sodium phosphate and sodium erythorbate, which are not typically found in a simple home preparation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in patrick cudahy sweet apple-wood smoked fully cooked bacon, sweet apple-wood smoked actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON offers 23.08g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including enzyme production and tissue repair. While this product is not a primary source of protein for a balanced diet, it can supplement protein intake when consumed in moderation as part of a meal.
Convenient Meal Component
As a fully cooked product, this PATRICK CUDAHY bacon offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It requires minimal effort to heat and serve, making it a quick addition to breakfast, sandwiches, or salads. This can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking, providing a readily available protein and flavor component without extensive culinary steps.
Flavorful Addition to Dishes
The sweet apple-wood smoked flavor of this bacon can enhance the palatability of various dishes. Its distinct taste can make meals more enjoyable, which can be a factor in dietary adherence for some individuals. When used sparingly as a flavor accent rather than a main component, it can add richness to vegetables, eggs, or lean protein sources.
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON scores 17/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with being an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Bacon is typically consumed as a breakfast item, a sandwich component, or as a flavoring agent in various dishes. Given its high sodium and fat content, portion control is key. A common serving size is 3 slices, which should be considered when incorporating it into your diet.
Pair PATRICK CUDAHY bacon with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast and a large serving of vegetables to help balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Use bacon as a flavoring ingredient rather than a main protein source; crumble a small amount over salads or roasted vegetables.
Consider using a single slice or half a slice to reduce the intake of sodium and saturated fat per meal.
Explore leaner alternatives like turkey bacon or plant-based bacon substitutes if you consume bacon frequently.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains sodium nitrite, a common curing agent in processed meats. While approved for use, some individuals choose to limit their intake of nitrites. The high sodium content (1769.23mg per 100g) is a significant concern, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those with sodium-sensitive conditions. The ingredient list also includes sodium phosphate, an additive that can contribute to overall phosphate intake, which some populations, such as those with kidney conditions, may need to monitor. Due to its ultra-processed nature and high levels of sodium and saturated fat, frequent consumption should be approached with caution.
Is PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON healthy?
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON scores 17/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in sodium and saturated fat, and classified as an ultra-processed food. While it provides protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests moderation.
How does PATRICK CUDAHY bacon compare to other bacon brands?
Compared to many other conventional bacon brands like Oscar Mayer, PATRICK CUDAHY bacon's nutritional profile is generally similar in terms of high sodium and saturated fat. Most conventional bacons are ultra-processed and share similar curing ingredients. Always check the specific nutrition label for variations in sodium, fat, and added sugars between brands.
What is 'natural smoke flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural smoke flavor' refers to a flavoring agent derived from smoke, often used to impart a smoky taste without traditional smoking methods. It is considered a food additive and contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the product. Its inclusion allows for consistent flavor without extensive processing time.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bacon?
The declared serving size is 3 slices, which provides a significant amount of sodium and fat. For most individuals, especially those monitoring their intake, a smaller portion of 1-2 slices would be more appropriate. Consider using it as an occasional flavor enhancer rather than a primary protein source.
Can I eat this bacon if I'm on a low-sodium diet?
Due to its very high sodium content (1769.23mg per 100g), PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED FULLY COOKED BACON is not suitable for a low-sodium diet. Even a small serving would contribute significantly to your daily sodium limit. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should avoid this product or consume it extremely rarely and in very small quantities.