ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast earns a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent). Its **high sodium content** and classification as ultra-processed are the primary factors influencing its score.
This product has a FoodScore of 46/100, indicating it is a decent choice.
A 100g serving provides 19.64g of protein, contributing to satiety.
The sodium content is 803.57mg per 100g, which is a significant penalty.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, unlike a home-cooked chicken breast.
Consider pairing with fresh vegetables to balance the meal.
Scores +0 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
19.64g
39% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.25g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
803.57mg
35% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (19.6g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (803.6mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of its nutritional contributions and certain processing characteristics. On the positive side, the product offers a substantial amount of protein, with 19.64g per 100g, which contributes a bonus of +10 points to its score. However, several factors lead to penalties. The most significant is its sodium content, at 803.57mg per 100g, resulting in a -4 point deduction. This level of sodium is considerably higher than what would be found in a plain, home-cooked chicken breast. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 point penalty. Ingredients like sodium phosphate, sodium acetate, and sodium diacetate are present to enhance texture, flavor, and shelf life, distinguishing it from a minimally processed food. The presence of 1.25g of added sugar from dextrose also contributes to its processed nature, though not a major penalty driver in this specific product. Compared to a home-cooked version, this ROUNDY'S product contains added ingredients and significantly more sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in roundy's, premium applewood smoked chicken breast actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This chicken breast is a good source of protein, providing 19.64g per 100g. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making this product a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake. Including adequate protein in meals can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help manage overall calorie intake. This can be particularly beneficial for active individuals or those aiming to maintain muscle mass.
Convenient Protein Source
As a prepared and pre-cooked item, ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast offers significant convenience. It requires no cooking, making it a quick option for meals or snacks when time is limited. This can help individuals adhere to their dietary goals by providing an easy way to incorporate a protein source without extensive preparation. Its ready-to-eat format can be useful for packing lunches or for quick additions to salads and sandwiches.
Low in Total and Saturated Fat
This product is relatively low in total fat, with only 1.79g per 100g, and contains no saturated or trans fats. Choosing lean protein sources like this chicken breast can be part of a dietary pattern that supports cardiovascular health. A diet lower in saturated and trans fats is generally recommended for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. The minimal fat content makes it a lighter protein option compared to some other meat products.
ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast earns a FoodScore of 46/100 (Decent). Its high sodium content and classification as ultra-processed are the primary factors influencing its score.
How to eat it
ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat protein component in various meals. It's often sliced for sandwiches, diced into salads, or served alongside vegetables. A common portion size would be around 2-3 ounces.
Pair with a large serving of fresh, non-starchy vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients, helping to balance the meal.
Use as a protein boost in a whole-grain wrap with plenty of leafy greens and a light dressing to create a more balanced and filling lunch.
Be mindful of the sodium content when adding other salty ingredients like cheese or processed dressings; opt for low-sodium alternatives where possible.
Consider using smaller portions of this product and supplementing with other lean protein sources like eggs or beans to manage overall sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast relates to its sodium content. At over 800mg per 100g, regular consumption could contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which is a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The product also contains sodium phosphate, an additive commonly used in processed meats. While generally recognized as safe, some research suggests that high dietary phosphate intake, particularly from inorganic sources, may be a concern for individuals with kidney issues. There are no common allergens declared in the ingredient list, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full label.
Is ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast healthy?
ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides a good amount of protein but is also high in sodium and classified as ultra-processed. While it can fit into a balanced diet, it's important to consider its nutritional profile, especially the sodium, in the context of your overall daily intake.
How does ROUNDY'S compare to other brands of pre-cooked chicken breast?
Compared to some other brands like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Smoked Chicken Breast, ROUNDY'S has a similar nutritional profile, often with comparable protein and sodium levels. Many pre-cooked chicken breast products in the deli aisle are ultra-processed and contain added sodium and other ingredients for preservation and flavor. Always check the nutrition facts panel and ingredient list for specific comparisons, especially regarding sodium and added sugars.
What is dextrose, and why is it in this product?
Dextrose is a simple sugar derived from corn. In this product, it functions as an added sugar and can contribute to flavor, browning, and shelf life. While the amount of added sugar from dextrose in this specific product is relatively low (1.25g per 100g), it's an indicator of processing and contributes to the overall NOVA class 4 classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chicken breast?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). This portion would provide about 11g of protein and around 450mg of sodium. For most individuals, a 2-4 ounce portion is a reasonable amount to include in a meal, depending on your individual protein needs and overall dietary goals. Be mindful of the sodium content when consuming larger portions.
Can I use this chicken breast for meal prepping?
Yes, ROUNDY'S Premium Applewood Smoked Chicken Breast can be a convenient option for meal prepping due to its ready-to-eat nature. It can be easily sliced or diced and added to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for quick meals throughout the week. To balance the sodium, pair it with plenty of fresh, unprocessed ingredients like vegetables and whole grains.