FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorpreparedPATRICK CUDAHY· 2 PAN FRIED SLICES

PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON, SWEET APPLE-WOOD

PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • A serving contains 2071.43mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
  • It provides 28.57g of protein per 100g, a notable strength.
  • Compared to home-cooked bacon, this processed version has higher sodium and saturated fat.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption due to its nutrient density.
  • Scores -3 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
28.57g
57% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
2071.43mg
90% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (28.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.3g)-15
Sodium (2071.4mg)-12

Why it scores 43

PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factors driving this score are its high levels of sodium and saturated fat. Per 100g, this product contains 2071.43mg of sodium, which is a significant amount and led to a -12 penalty in the scoring. Additionally, the 14.29g of saturated fat per 100g resulted in a -15 penalty. On the positive side, PATRICK CUDAHY bacon provides a substantial 28.57g of protein per 100g, earning a +10 bonus. It also received a +2 bonus for its iron content (2.57mg, 14% DV). The product is classified as NOVA 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, which contributed an +8 bonus for being minimally processed. While the label states 'uncured,' it still contains sea salt and natural flavoring, common in processed meats. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, this product's higher sodium and saturated fat content are notable.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in patrick cudahy sweet apple-wood smoked uncured bacon, sweet apple-wood actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

This bacon provides a substantial amount of protein, with 28.57g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in various bodily functions. Including protein in meals can contribute to satiety, which may help manage overall food intake. For individuals looking to increase their protein consumption, this product can contribute to daily protein goals when consumed in moderation.

Iron Contribution

PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON contributes 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency. While not a primary source, this product can help supplement iron intake as part of a varied diet.

Minimally Processed Classification

This product is classified as NOVA 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient. This classification means it has undergone minimal processing, primarily for preservation or to make it suitable for cooking, rather than extensive industrial alteration. While still processed, it is less so than ultra-processed foods, which often contain many additives and artificial ingredients. This can be a consideration for those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed items.

How to eat it

Bacon is commonly consumed as part of breakfast, often alongside eggs or pancakes, or as an ingredient in sandwiches and salads. A typical serving is two slices, which is a relatively small portion. Due to its high sodium and fat content, it is generally considered an occasional food.

Pair bacon with fiber-rich foods like whole-wheat toast or a large vegetable-based salad to balance the meal.
Use bacon as a flavor enhancer in dishes, rather than the main protein, to control portion sizes and overall intake.
Drain excess fat after cooking to reduce the saturated fat content per serving.
Consider using smaller portions, such as one slice, to reduce sodium and fat intake while still enjoying the flavor.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON is its high sodium content, at 2071.43mg per 100g. Individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The significant amount of saturated fat (14.29g per 100g) is also a consideration for individuals monitoring their cardiovascular health. While 'uncured' implies no added nitrates or nitrites, the presence of sea salt and natural flavoring means it still contains naturally occurring nitrates. There are no declared allergens in the ingredient list.

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Reader questions
Is PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON healthy?
PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers a good source of protein and some iron, its high sodium and saturated fat content contribute to a less favorable nutritional profile. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does PATRICK CUDAHY bacon compare to other brands?
Compared to other brands of bacon like Oscar Mayer, the nutritional profile can vary. Many bacon products in the US market share similar challenges with high sodium and saturated fat. Always check the nutrition facts panel, as some brands may offer lower sodium or leaner options, though these are less common for traditional bacon.
What does 'uncured' mean for this bacon?
For PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON, 'uncured' means that no synthetic nitrates or nitrites were added during processing. Instead, the product uses natural sources, such as sea salt and natural flavoring, which contain naturally occurring nitrates that convert to nitrites. This distinction primarily relates to processing methods rather than a significant nutritional difference.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bacon?
The declared serving size is 2 pan-fried slices, which is a practical portion for most consumers. Given its high sodium and saturated fat, limiting intake to this portion size, or even one slice, is advisable for those monitoring these nutrients. Incorporating it into meals where it's not the primary focus can also help manage consumption.
Can I eat this bacon every day?
Due to its high sodium (2071.43mg per 100g) and saturated fat (14.29g per 100g) content, consuming PATRICK CUDAHY SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED UNCURED BACON daily is not recommended. Regular intake of foods high in these nutrients can contribute to exceeding daily dietary guidelines. It is more suitable for occasional enjoyment.

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Data & references