FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidotherSPAM· 2 ONZ

SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER

SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER receives a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven by its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**, despite a notable protein contribution.

  • FoodScore: 25/100 (Avoid) due to high sodium and saturated fat.
  • Contains 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • A single serving (2 oz) provides over 20% of the Daily Value for sodium.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Use sparingly and consider pairing with fresh, unprocessed foods to balance intake.
  • Scores -17 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1039.29mg
45% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.5g)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.7g)-15
Sodium (1039.3mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 25

SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER earns a FoodScore of 25 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by several nutritional factors. The product is penalized significantly for its high saturated fat content, with 10.7g per 100g, and its elevated sodium level of 1039.29mg per 100g. These factors contribute substantial negative points to its overall score. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food incurs a significant penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and the presence of ingredients like modified potato starch and sodium phosphates. While SPAM does provide 12.5g of protein per 100g, which offers a bonus, this positive aspect is outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded canned meat, this SPAM product's nutritional profile is similar, with comparable levels of saturated fat and sodium, aligning with the typical composition of this food category.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in spam canned meat, black pepper actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, hormone production, and enzyme function. Including protein in meals can contribute to satiety, helping to manage hunger throughout the day. While this product is processed, its protein content can be a factor for individuals looking to meet their daily protein needs, especially in situations where other protein sources are not readily available.

Convenient Food Option

This product offers a highly convenient and shelf-stable protein source. Its long shelf life and lack of refrigeration requirement before opening make it a practical option for emergency food supplies, camping, or situations where fresh meat is not accessible. The ease of preparation, often requiring just heating or slicing, makes it a quick addition to meals when time is limited, fitting into a busy lifestyle as a ready-to-eat component.

Energy Density for Specific Needs

With 321.43 calories per 100g, SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER is an energy-dense food. For individuals with high caloric needs, such as those engaged in strenuous physical activity or those needing to gain weight, this product can contribute significantly to their daily energy intake. Its fat content, particularly the concentrated ultra-processed fat, provides a substantial amount of calories in a relatively small serving size.

How to eat it

SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER is typically consumed as a fried or baked component in various dishes, often alongside eggs, rice, or in sandwiches. It is a ready-to-eat product that can be sliced and heated, making it a quick addition to meals. Due to its high sodium content, it's best enjoyed in small portions.

Pair with fresh vegetables and whole grains to balance the meal's nutritional profile and add dietary fiber.
Consider using smaller portions, such as half a serving, to reduce intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Incorporate into dishes where its strong flavor can be a primary seasoning, reducing the need for additional salt.
Drain any excess fat after cooking to slightly reduce the overall fat content of your meal.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (1039.29mg per 100g) in SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER, which can contribute to exceeding daily recommended limits, especially for individuals managing blood pressure. The product also contains sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats. While approved for use, some individuals choose to limit intake of nitrites. The modified potato starch is a common food additive used for texture and stability. This product is not a significant source of essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or vitamins, so it should be consumed as part of a varied diet that includes nutrient-dense foods.

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Reader questions
Is SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER healthy?
SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER has a FoodScore of 25/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high levels of sodium and saturated fat, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food, are the primary reasons for this score. While it offers protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests moderation.
How does SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER compare to other canned meats?
Compared to a generic unbranded canned meat, SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high sodium and saturated fat content. For example, a product like Libby's Corned Beef also features high sodium. Many canned meats are ultra-processed and share similar nutritional drawbacks, making it important to check the specific nutrition facts for any brand.
What is 'modified potato starch' in the ingredient list?
Modified potato starch is a food additive used to improve the texture, stability, and shelf life of processed foods. It acts as a thickener and binder. While generally recognized as safe, it contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification and does not offer significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (approximately 56g). Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to this portion size or even consuming less is advisable. Regular consumption of larger portions could easily lead to exceeding daily recommended limits for these nutrients, impacting dietary balance.
Can SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER be part of a weight loss diet?
Due to its high calorie and fat density (321.43 calories per 100g), SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER may not be ideal for a weight loss diet if consumed frequently or in large portions. While it provides protein, the caloric load from fat and its ultra-processed nature mean it should be consumed very sparingly, if at all, when aiming for weight management.
Does this product contain any added sugar?
According to the nutrition facts, SPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. While 'sugar' is listed in the ingredients, the amount is negligible per serving, meaning it does not significantly contribute to the added sugar intake.

Explore more

CategoryAll other foods →BrandAll SPAM SKUs →Competitor · 85/100INCA'S GOLD ORGANIC BLACK CHIA, BLACK →Competitor · 85/100INCA'S GOLD ORGANIC WHITE CHIA →Head-to-headSPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER vs. Egg Yolk Raw →Head-to-headSPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER vs. INCA'S GOLD ORGANIC BLACK CHIA, BLACK →Head-to-headSPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER vs. INCA'S GOLD ORGANIC WHITE CHIA →Head-to-headSPAM CANNED MEAT, BLACK PEPPER vs. JOVIAL WHEAT BERRIES 100% ORGANIC EINKORN, WHEAT BERRIES →Fits dietKeto diet →

Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (Branded, fdcId 1929223, modified 2/16/2018)Updated 2026-04-24