Alheira

Meat

Item Rating: 45/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 320 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 25.0 grams of fat, and 15.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		761.9
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		59.5 g	76%
	Saturated Fat	19.0 g	95%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		119.0 mg	39%
Sodium		1904.8 mg	82%
Total Carbohydrates		35.7 g	12%
	Dietary Fiber	1.2 g	4%
	Sugars	2.4 g
protein		28.6 g	57%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		47.6 mg	3%
Iron		3.6 mg	20%
Potassium		476.2 mg	10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

🧈 High saturated fat

🥩 High protein

Source of Calories

Fat: 535 cal (67.6%)

Protein: 114 cal (14.4%)

Carbs: 142 cal (18.0%)

About Alheira

Alheira is a traditional Portuguese sausage that originated in the Trás-os-Montes region. Made primarily from a mix of meats like poultry, veal, or pork, along with bread as a binder, it was historically created as a pork-free option by Jewish communities avoiding dietary restrictions. Alheira is smoked and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and olive oil, giving it a characteristic flavor. Nutritionally, it contains approximately 320 calories per serving, with a high fat content (25g) and moderate protein (12g). It is a calorie-dense option due to its fat levels and bread content, while providing minimal dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Often consumed grilled or fried, it pairs well with vegetables or salads for balance.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein (12g per serving), supporting muscle maintenance and repair.
• Contains iron (1.5mg per serving), which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
• Provides energy-dense calories, making it suitable for individuals with higher energy needs.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten, wheat, potential cross-contamination with nuts or dairy during preparation

Suitable for: High-calorie diets, protein-focused diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegetarian diets, vegan diets, low-fat diets

Selection and Storage

Store alheira in the refrigerator and consume by the expiration date. It can be frozen for extended storage, but should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Common Questions About Alheira Nutrition

Is Alheira high in protein?

Alheira contains 12 grams of protein per 100 grams, making it a moderate source of protein. While it provides some protein, it is not as high as other sausages due to its ingredients like bread, which lowers its overall protein content.

Can I eat Alheira on a keto diet?

Alheira is generally not suitable for a strict keto diet due to its carbohydrate content, which is 15 grams per 100 grams. The inclusion of bread in its recipe makes it higher in carbs compared to traditional sausages.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating Alheira?

Alheira can be a flavorful option with a good balance of fat and protein, but it is relatively high in calories (320 per 100 grams) and sodium (800 mg). Overconsumption may contribute to excessive calorie intake or high sodium levels, which could be a concern for heart health.

How much Alheira should I eat per serving?

A reasonable serving size of Alheira is around 100 grams, which provides 320 calories, 12 grams of protein, and 25 grams of fat. Pair it with a salad or vegetable side to create a balanced meal.

How does Alheira compare to other sausages?

Compared to traditional pork sausages, Alheira is often lower in protein but higher in carbohydrates due to the inclusion of bread in its recipe. It also tends to have a distinct flavor from garlic and spices, making it unique among sausages.

Data Sources & Scientific References