FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackTILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER· 1 ONZ

TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER WOOD SMOKED BEEF JERKY, SEA SALT & BLACK PEPPER

TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER WOOD SMOKED BEEF JERKY, SEA SALT & BLACK PEPPER receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium and added sugar content**, alongside its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER jerky scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
  • It provides a significant 32.1g of protein per 100g serving.
  • A single serving contains 2110.71mg of sodium and 12.52g of added sugar.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Consider this product for occasional use rather than a daily staple.
  • Scores -13 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
32.11g
64% of Daily Value
Added sugar
12.52g
25% of Daily Value
Sodium
2110.71mg
92% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (32.1g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (12.5g)-15
Sodium (2110.7mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 28

TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER WOOD SMOKED BEEF JERKY, SEA SALT & BLACK PEPPER earned a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score reflects a combination of nutritional factors. On the positive side, the product receives a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 32.1g per 100g, and a smaller bonus for 3.6g of fiber. It also gains points for its iron content, contributing 21% of the Daily Value. However, these benefits are outweighed by several penalties. The product is penalized for its substantial added sugar content, with 12.52g per 100g, and a very high sodium level of 2110.71mg per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food incurs an additional penalty. Ingredients like brown sugar, dextrose, and corn syrup solids contribute to the added sugar content. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this jerky offers less nutritional diversity and a higher concentration of components that should be limited in the diet.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in tillamook country smoker wood smoked beef jerky, sea salt & black pepper actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Excellent Source of Protein

This TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER jerky is an excellent source of protein, providing 32.1g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and overall body function. Including protein-rich foods in your diet can help manage hunger and support a healthy metabolism. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity, this product can contribute significantly to daily protein needs.

Source of Iron

The product provides 3.86mg of iron per 100g, which is 21% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a crucial role in energy production. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. While not the primary source, this jerky can contribute to your daily iron requirements, especially for those who may need to boost their intake.

Convenient Snack Option

As a shelf-stable product, TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER jerky offers convenience for on-the-go snacking. Its portability and lack of refrigeration requirements make it a practical choice for travel, hiking, or situations where fresh food options are limited. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its convenience can be a factor for individuals needing a quick source of protein when other options are unavailable.

How to eat it

Beef jerky is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack, often between meals or during activities. A common portion size is usually a small bag or a few pieces, which is less than the 100g reference serving. It's often chosen for its protein content and portability.

Pair with a source of fiber and healthy fats like an apple or a handful of unsalted nuts to create a more balanced snack.
Be mindful of portion sizes; the high sodium and added sugar content mean it's best consumed in small, infrequent amounts.
Consider this jerky as an occasional protein boost rather than a regular substitute for less processed protein sources like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs.
Use it to add flavor and protein to salads or stir-fries, but remember to adjust other high-sodium ingredients accordingly.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains a high amount of sodium (2110.71mg per 100g), which could be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those with sodium-sensitive conditions. The presence of sodium nitrite as a preservative is also noted; while approved for use, some individuals prefer to limit nitrites in their diet. The added sugar content, from ingredients like brown sugar, dextrose, and corn syrup solids, means this product contributes to overall sugar intake, which individuals managing blood sugar levels should consider. Given its NOVA 4 classification, it is an ultra-processed food, which is generally recommended to be consumed in moderation as part of a diet rich in whole foods.

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Reader questions
Is TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER WOOD SMOKED BEEF JERKY, SEA SALT & BLACK PEPPER healthy?
This TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER jerky received a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid). While it offers a good amount of protein (32.1g per 100g) and some iron, it is high in sodium (2110.71mg per 100g) and added sugar (12.52g per 100g). It's best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a healthy diet due to these factors and its ultra-processed nature.
How does TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER compare to other beef jerky brands?
Compared to some other beef jerky brands like Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky, the TILLAMOOK COUNTRY SMOKER product has a similar nutritional profile in terms of high protein and significant sodium. Many jerky products in this category tend to be high in sodium and often contain added sugars and preservatives. Always check the nutrition facts panel and ingredient list for specific comparisons.
What is sodium nitrite, and should I be concerned about it?
Sodium nitrite is a common preservative used in cured meats like this jerky. It helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and contributes to the product's color and flavor. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some consumers choose to limit their intake of nitrites, as there are ongoing discussions about their potential health effects when consumed in large amounts.
What is a reasonable portion size for this beef jerky?
The nutrition information provided is per 100g, but a typical serving size for beef jerky is often around 1 ounce (28g). At this smaller portion, the sodium and added sugar would be proportionally lower. For example, a 28g serving would contain approximately 591mg of sodium and 3.5g of added sugar. Moderation is key, especially given the high levels of these nutrients per 100g.
Can this jerky be part of a low-carb diet?
With 12.52g of added sugar per 100g, this jerky does contribute carbohydrates. While the total carbohydrate content is not provided, the added sugar is a factor to consider for strict low-carb diets. Some low-carb diets aim to minimize all forms of sugar. It's important to check the total carbohydrate count if following a very strict low-carb regimen.

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Data & references