SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and significant contributions from added sugar and sodium.
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE has a FoodScore of 24/100.
This product provides 35.71g of protein per 100g, a notable amount for a snack.
A primary concern is the 1639.29mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily limits.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from whole foods like raw vegetables with hummus.
Consider this product for occasional consumption due to its high sodium and added sugar content.
Scores -17 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
35.71g
71% of Daily Value
Added sugar
14.97g
30% of Daily Value
Sodium
1639.29mg
71% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (35.7g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.0g)-19
Sodium (1639.3mg)-9
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 24
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE receives a FoodScore of 24 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The product also contains 14.97g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a substantial penalty in the scoring. Furthermore, the high sodium content of 1639.29mg per 100g is another major factor, leading to a considerable deduction. While the product does offer a notable 35.71g of protein per 100g, which provides a bonus, and a small bonus for its iron content (21% DV), these are outweighed by the penalties. Ingredients like brown sugar and honey powder are key contributors to the added sugar content. Compared to a reference baseline like air-popped popcorn or raw vegetables with hummus, which are minimally processed and low in added sugar and sodium, SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in sweet baby ray's beef jerky, honey chipotle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE offers a substantial 35.71g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle repair and growth, and contributes to satiety. For individuals seeking to increase their protein intake, this product can be a convenient option, particularly when other protein sources are not readily available. The beef base is the primary contributor to this protein content, making it a straightforward way to consume this nutrient.
Contains Iron for Energy Metabolism
This beef jerky provides 3.86mg of iron per 100g, which accounts for 21% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body and plays a role in energy production. Including iron-rich foods in the diet can help prevent iron deficiency. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, the iron content is a notable contribution for this type of snack, supporting overall metabolic functions.
Convenient for On-the-Go Snacking
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY is a shelf-stable and portable snack, making it a practical choice for individuals with busy lifestyles or those needing a quick protein source while traveling. Its compact nature and lack of refrigeration requirements make it easy to carry in a bag or keep in a desk drawer. This convenience can be beneficial for managing hunger between meals, especially when access to fresh, whole foods is limited.
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and significant contributions from added sugar and sodium.
How to eat it
Beef jerky is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack, often between meals or as a quick energy boost. It's common to eat a single serving (1 oz) directly from the package. However, due to its concentrated nutrient profile, mindful portion control is important.
Pair with fresh fruit or vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients, balancing the snack's overall nutritional impact.
Use as a small protein boost after light physical activity, rather than a primary meal replacement.
Be mindful of the serving size; one 1-ounce serving is typically sufficient to curb hunger without excessive sodium or added sugar intake.
Consider cutting the jerky into smaller pieces to extend the eating experience and promote slower consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE, which is 1639.29mg per 100g. This amount can quickly contribute to or exceed daily recommended sodium limits, particularly for individuals monitoring their blood pressure. The product also contains monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer, which some individuals may prefer to avoid due to perceived sensitivities. The presence of added sugar from ingredients like brown sugar and honey powder means it's not suitable for those strictly limiting sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients like maltodextrin and modified food starch, which are common in such products.
Is SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE a healthy snack?
SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE scores 24/100, indicating it's not a top choice for regular consumption. While it provides a good amount of protein and some iron, its high levels of added sugar and sodium, along with its ultra-processed nature, suggest it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY compare to other jerky brands?
Compared to other beef jerky brands like Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky, SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE may have similar challenges regarding sodium and added sugar. Nutritional profiles vary significantly across brands and flavors. Always check the nutrition facts label for specific comparisons, focusing on protein, sodium, and added sugar content.
What is 'honey powder' in the ingredient list?
Honey powder, as listed in SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, is typically a dehydrated form of honey often combined with a carrier like maltodextrin. It contributes to the product's flavor profile and its added sugar content. While derived from honey, it is still considered an added sugar in processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this beef jerky?
A reasonable portion size for SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY, HONEY CHIPOTLE is the labeled serving size of 1 ounce. This helps manage intake of sodium and added sugar. Consuming larger portions frequently could lead to exceeding daily recommended limits for these nutrients, impacting overall dietary health.
Can this beef jerky be part of a low-carb diet?
While beef jerky is often considered a high-protein snack, the 'Honey Chipotle' flavor of SWEET BABY RAY'S BEEF JERKY contains 14.97g of added sugar per 100g. This sugar content means it may not be suitable for strict low-carb or ketogenic diets. Individuals following such diets should carefully review the carbohydrate and sugar content.