TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI receives a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, along with its ultra-processed nature.
This product has a FoodScore of 25/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular part of the diet.
It provides 19.51g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 1270.73mg per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, similar to many other pepperoni products.
Consider this product for occasional use in small portions rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -17 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
19.51g
39% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1270.73mg
55% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (19.5g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (14.6g)-15
Sodium (1270.7mg)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 25
TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI scores 25 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by several nutritional factors. While it receives a bonus for its protein content, providing 19.51g per 100g, this positive aspect is outweighed by significant penalties. The product contains 14.61g of saturated fat per 100g, which contributes a substantial penalty to its score. Additionally, the sodium content is notably high at 1270.73mg per 100g, further reducing its overall score. The presence of ingredients like dextrose and sugar, although not contributing to added sugar penalties in this specific formulation, are common in ultra-processed foods. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, incurring a penalty for its extensive processing. This TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER product also receives a penalty for being a concentrated source of ultra-processed fat. Compared to a generic unbranded pepperoni, this product's nutritional profile is similar, reflecting common characteristics of this food type.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in tillamook country smoker uncured hot pepperoni actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI provides 19.51g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth, as well as contributing to satiety. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger and support overall body function. While this product is not a primary source of protein for most diets, it does contribute to daily protein intake.
Convenient Snack Option
This product offers a convenient and portable snack option for specific situations. Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to carry and consume when other food options are not readily available. For individuals needing a quick source of energy and protein on the go, this can serve as a temporary solution. However, its nutritional profile suggests it should not be a regular part of a balanced diet.
Flavor Enhancement
The distinct flavor of pepperoni, derived from ingredients like natural flavorings and spices, can enhance the palatability of certain dishes. Used in small quantities, it can add a savory and spicy note to meals, potentially making healthier options more appealing. This can be a strategy to encourage consumption of other nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables on a pizza or in a salad, by adding a small amount of a desired flavor.
TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI receives a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, along with its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Pepperoni is typically consumed as a topping on pizza, in sandwiches, or as a standalone snack. Given its concentrated flavor and high sodium content, small portions are generally recommended. It's often used to add a savory, spicy element to meals.
Pair with fresh vegetables: Use a small amount of pepperoni to flavor a large vegetable-rich salad or as a topping on a homemade pizza with plenty of vegetables to balance the meal's nutritional profile.
Mind your portion size: A single piece (serving size) is a small amount. Be mindful of how many pieces are consumed, especially when adding to other foods, to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Consider as an occasional ingredient: Due to its NOVA class 4 status and high sodium, consider this product an occasional ingredient rather than a daily staple.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI, which is 1270.73mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The product also contains a significant amount of saturated fat (14.61g per 100g), which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol levels. The ingredient list includes natural flavorings, which can be a broad category, and dextrose and sugar, which are common in processed meats. There are no declared common allergens such as milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the label. However, individuals with sensitivities to specific spices or flavor compounds should exercise caution.
Is TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI healthy?
TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI has a FoodScore of 25/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides some protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests it is not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI compare to other pepperoni brands?
Compared to other popular pepperoni brands like Hormel or Applegate, TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI has a similar nutritional profile in terms of high saturated fat and sodium. Most pepperoni products, regardless of brand, are ultra-processed meats and share these common characteristics. Always check the specific nutrition label for exact values.
What does 'UNCURED' mean on the label?
The term 'UNCURED' on the TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER label means that the product was not preserved using synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Instead, it uses natural sources of nitrites, often from celery powder or sea salt, which are converted to nitrites during the curing process. Nutritionally, this distinction may not significantly alter the product's overall health impact compared to cured versions.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pepperoni?
Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, a reasonable portion size for TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI would be small, perhaps 1-2 pieces, especially if consumed as a snack. When used as an ingredient, such as on a pizza, it's advisable to limit the quantity to minimize the impact on the meal's overall nutritional values.
Can I eat this pepperoni if I'm trying to limit processed foods?
TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER UNCURED HOT PEPPERONI is classified as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed. If your goal is to limit processed foods, this product would not align with that objective. It contains ingredients like dextrose and natural flavorings, which are indicators of significant industrial processing.