PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED
PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED earns a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **high protein content** and classification as a minimally processed food, balanced against its **significant sodium level**.
This product has a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good).
It provides 21.43g of protein per 100g, a notable strength.
A serving contains 1069.64mg of sodium, which is a significant amount.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is less processed than many other prepared meats.
Consider pairing with low-sodium foods to balance overall intake.
Scores +17 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
21.43g
43% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.25g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
1069.64mg
47% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Sodium (1069.6mg)-5
Why it scores 63
PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED achieves a FoodScore of 63/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of positive nutritional attributes and areas for moderation. A key positive factor is its high protein content, providing 21.43g per 100g, which contributes significantly to satiety and muscle maintenance. The product is also classified as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient rather than an ultra-processed food, earning a bonus for its relatively minimal processing. However, a major detractor is the elevated sodium content at 1069.64mg per 100g. While the ingredient list includes "SEA SALT" rather than standard table salt, the quantity still contributes substantially to daily sodium intake recommendations. The presence of "SUGAR" and "NATURAL FLAVOR" are common in cured meats but do not significantly impact the score in this quantity. Compared to a home-cooked ham using whole ingredients, this product's sodium level is considerably higher, making portion control important.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in patrick cudahy uncured ham, sweet apple-wood smoked actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Protein
PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM is an excellent source of protein, delivering 21.43g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including adequate protein in meals can help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. This makes it a useful component for meals where you are looking to boost your protein intake.
Minimally Processed Option
This ham is classified as a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This indicates it undergoes less processing than many other prepared meat products, which often fall into NOVA class 4 (ultra-processed). Choosing foods that are less processed can be a step towards a more whole-food-focused diet, as they typically contain fewer additives and retain more of their inherent nutritional value. The ingredient list is relatively short and recognizable, with "PORK" as the primary component.
Convenient Meal Component
As a pre-cooked and sliced product, PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It can be quickly added to sandwiches, salads, or served as part of a main dish without extensive cooking. This convenience can be beneficial for individuals with limited time for meal prep, helping them incorporate a protein source into their diet more easily. Its ready-to-eat format supports quick and accessible meal solutions.
PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED earns a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its high protein content and classification as a minimally processed food, balanced against its significant sodium level.
How to eat it
This uncured ham is typically consumed as a cold cut in sandwiches, diced into salads, or warmed as part of a breakfast or dinner plate. A common portion might be 2-3 slices, which is roughly the 2 oz serving size. Be mindful of its sodium content when pairing with other foods.
To balance the sodium content, pair this ham with fresh vegetables, fruits, or unsalted whole grains.
Use smaller portions, such as one slice, when adding to a sandwich or wrap to moderate sodium intake.
Dice and add to scrambled eggs or an omelet for a quick protein boost without adding much cooking time.
Combine with a variety of colorful vegetables in a salad to create a nutrient-dense meal.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM is its high sodium content, at 1069.64mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of other sodium sources throughout the day. While the product uses "SEA SALT," the quantity is still significant. The presence of "SUGAR" is minimal (1.25g added sugar per 100g) and generally not a concern for most individuals, but those strictly limiting sugar intake should be aware. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full label.
Is PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED healthy?
PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM, SWEET APPLE-WOOD SMOKED has a FoodScore of 63/100, indicating it's a 'Good' choice. It offers a high protein content (21.43g per 100g) and is minimally processed. However, its significant sodium level (1069.64mg per 100g) means it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their sodium intake.
How does PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM compare to other deli hams?
Compared to many other deli hams, PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM is similar in its high protein contribution and often in its sodium levels. For example, brands like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh often have comparable sodium figures. This product's NOVA class 2 designation suggests it's a less processed option than some highly formulated deli meats, which can be a positive.
What does 'uncured' mean in this product?
The term 'uncured' on this PATRICK CUDAHY ham means that it was not cured with synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, the curing process relies on natural sources of nitrates, often from ingredients like celery powder, which convert to nitrites during processing. Nutritionally, this doesn't necessarily mean it's lower in sodium or fundamentally different from cured ham in terms of overall health impact.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ham?
A reasonable portion size for this ham is typically around 2 ounces (approximately 56g), which is the declared serving size. This amount provides about 12g of protein and roughly 600mg of sodium. Sticking to this portion helps manage the sodium intake while still benefiting from the protein.
Can I eat this ham every day?
Given its high sodium content, consuming PATRICK CUDAHY UNCURED HAM every day might lead to exceeding daily sodium recommendations, especially if other foods in your diet are also high in sodium. It's best to incorporate it as part of a varied diet and balance it with low-sodium options to maintain a healthy overall intake.