FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentpreparedTHE FRESH MARKET· 2 ONZ

THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST, APPLEWOOD SMOKED

THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the Decent category.
  • It provides a significant amount of protein, with 19.6g per 100g serving.
  • A primary concern is the high sodium content at 803.57mg per 100g.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike a home-cooked chicken breast.
  • Consider this product for occasional use rather than a daily staple due to its processing and sodium.
  • 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

THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorizing it as Decent. The score is primarily influenced by its nutritional profile and processing level. On the positive side, it offers a substantial 19.64g of protein per 100g, contributing a +10 bonus to its score. However, several factors lead to penalties. The product contains 803.57mg of sodium per 100g, which is considered high and results in a -4 penalty. Furthermore, its ingredient list, including items like dextrose, sodium phosphate, and sodium diacetate, classifies it as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, incurring a significant -10 penalty. While it contains a small amount of added sugar (1.25g per 100g), this amount is not substantial enough to trigger a penalty. Compared to a home-cooked chicken breast, which would typically be minimally processed and contain less sodium and no added sugars or preservatives, THE FRESH MARKET product presents a less optimal nutritional choice.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in the fresh market applewood smoked chicken breast, applewood smoked actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Excellent Source of Protein

This chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, providing 19.64g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including adequate protein in your diet can help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management, and supports the maintenance of lean body mass. This product can contribute significantly to your daily protein needs, especially for individuals with higher protein requirements.

Convenient Meal Component

As a pre-cooked and pre-sliced item, THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST offers significant convenience for meal preparation. It requires no cooking, making it a quick option for adding protein to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with limited time for cooking or those seeking easy, ready-to-eat protein sources to support a balanced diet without extensive kitchen work.

Low in Total and Saturated Fat

This product is notably low in total fat and contains no saturated or trans fat, with only 1.79g of total fat per 100g. Choosing foods low in saturated and trans fats can contribute to a heart-healthy diet. For individuals monitoring their fat intake, this chicken breast offers a lean protein option that aligns with recommendations for reducing dietary fats that can negatively impact cardiovascular health.

How to eat it

This pre-cooked chicken breast is typically consumed as a convenient protein source in various meals. It's often used cold in sandwiches, salads, or wraps, or lightly heated as part of a main dish. A common portion size would be around 2-3 ounces.

Pair with fresh vegetables and whole grains to create a balanced meal and dilute the sodium content.
Use in moderation due to its higher sodium level; consider smaller portions or less frequent consumption.
Chop and add to a large salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to enhance nutrient intake without adding excessive sodium.
Combine with unsalted ingredients like plain rice or steamed broccoli to help balance the overall sodium of your meal.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the sodium content in THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST, which is 803.57mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list also includes sodium phosphate, a common food additive used as a stabilizer and emulsifier. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of highly processed foods containing such additives. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a higher degree of industrial processing compared to whole, unprocessed foods.

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Reader questions
Is THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST healthy?
THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers a good amount of protein (19.64g per 100g) and is low in fat. However, its high sodium content (803.57mg per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it's not an optimal choice for daily consumption.
How does THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST compare to other deli meats?
Compared to some other deli meats like Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Smoked Turkey Breast, THE FRESH MARKET product has a similar protein content but may have varying sodium levels. Always check the nutrition label, as sodium can differ significantly between brands and product lines. Many deli meats are ultra-processed, so this product is typical for its category in that regard.
What is dextrose, and why is it in this product?
Dextrose is a simple sugar derived from corn, often used in processed foods as a sweetener or to enhance flavor and texture. In this product, it contributes to the 1.25g of added sugar per 100g. While the amount is small, it's an indicator of the product's processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chicken breast?
A reasonable portion size is typically 2-3 ounces (approximately 56-85g). Given the high sodium content, sticking to smaller portions can help manage your overall daily sodium intake. For example, a 2-ounce serving would provide about 450mg of sodium.
Can I use this chicken breast for meal prepping?
Yes, you can use THE FRESH MARKET APPLEWOOD SMOKED CHICKEN BREAST for meal prepping due to its convenience. However, be mindful of the sodium when combining it with other ingredients. Consider pairing it with low-sodium vegetables and grains to create balanced meals for the week.

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