TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy, scores 37/100 (Poor) due to its notable protein content being offset by a high amount of added sugar and sodium.
This product received a FoodScore of 37/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating.
It provides a significant 39.29g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A primary concern is the 12.52g of added sugar and 1000mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 3 processed snack, it offers less nutritional density than whole-food alternatives.
Consume in moderation, especially considering the sodium and added sugar content.
Scores -4 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
39.29g
79% of Daily Value
Added sugar
12.52g
25% of Daily Value
Sodium
1000mg
43% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (39.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (12.5g)-15
Sodium (1000mg)-5
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 37
TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy, earns a FoodScore of 37 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The most significant positive contributor to its score is the high protein content, providing 39.29g per 100g, which adds 10 bonus points. Additionally, it offers 3.86mg of iron, contributing 2 bonus points. However, these benefits are largely overshadowed by several nutritional drawbacks. The product contains 12.52g of added sugar, leading to a substantial 15-point penalty. The sodium content is also high at 1000mg per 100g, resulting in a 5-point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 3 processed food incurs another 5-point penalty. Ingredients like sugar and soy sauce contribute to the elevated added sugar and sodium levels. When compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this jerky contains significantly more added sugar and sodium, and lacks the fiber and broader micronutrient profile typically found in less processed options.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's, buffalo jerky, sweet & spicy, sweet & spicy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This jerky is a concentrated source of protein, providing 39.29g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and consuming adequate amounts can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. For individuals seeking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity, this product can serve as a convenient option.
Provides Iron for Energy Metabolism
TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky contains 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 metabolism. Including iron-rich foods in the diet can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness.
Convenient Protein Source for On-the-Go
As a jerky product, this item offers a shelf-stable and portable protein source. This can be particularly useful for individuals with busy lifestyles who need a quick snack that doesn't require refrigeration. It can be a practical choice for travel or as an emergency snack when other protein options are not readily available.
TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy, scores 37/100 (Poor) due to its notable protein content being offset by a high amount of added sugar and sodium.
How to eat it
Jerky is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack, often between meals or as a post-workout option. Due to its concentrated nature, a common portion size is usually smaller than the 100g reference, often around 1 ounce. Be mindful of the sodium and added sugar when incorporating it into your routine.
Pair with fresh fruit or vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients, balancing the snack's nutritional profile.
Consider a smaller portion size, such as half a serving, to moderate intake of sodium and added sugar.
Use as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring your sodium or sugar intake.
Combine with unsalted nuts or seeds for a more diverse nutrient blend and healthy fats.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be aware that this product contains 1000mg of sodium per 100g, which is a significant amount. The presence of sugar as a primary ingredient also contributes to 12.52g of added sugar per 100g, which may be a concern for those managing blood sugar levels or limiting sugar intake. The ingredient list also includes wheat and soybeans as part of the soy sauce, indicating potential allergens for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients. While generally safe for most adults in moderation, children should consume this product sparingly due to its high sodium content.
Is TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy, healthy?
TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy, has a FoodScore of 37/100, rated as 'Poor.' While it offers a high protein content and some iron, it also contains significant amounts of added sugar and sodium. Its classification as a processed food means it's less nutritionally dense than whole-food alternatives.
How does TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky compare to other jerky brands?
Compared to some other jerky brands like Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky, TRADER JOE'S Buffalo Jerky has a similar profile regarding protein, but its added sugar and sodium levels should be checked against specific competitor labels. Many jerky products face similar challenges with high sodium and added sugar due to their processing and flavoring.
What is 'natural smoke flavoring' in the ingredient list?
Natural smoke flavoring is a common ingredient used to impart a smoky taste to foods without traditional smoking methods. While derived from natural sources, it is a processed flavoring agent and does not contribute nutritional value. Its inclusion is primarily for taste enhancement.
What is a reasonable portion size for this jerky?
The serving size is 1 ounce, which is significantly less than the 100g reference used for the nutritional values. A 1-ounce portion would contain roughly one-quarter of the listed sodium and added sugar. Sticking to the recommended serving size is important to manage intake of these components.
Can this jerky be part of a weight loss diet?
Due to its high protein content, this jerky can contribute to satiety, which may be beneficial for weight management. However, its significant added sugar and sodium content mean it should be consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutrient-dense, whole foods to support overall dietary goals.