Cured meats

Cured meats

Meat

Item Rating: 41/100

1 serving (50 grams) contains 150 calories, 7.5 grams of protein, 12.5 grams of fat, and 1.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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714.3
calories
35.7
protein
4.8
carbohydrates
59.5
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
714.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 59.5 g 76%
Saturated Fat 21.4 g 107%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 166.7 mg 55%
Sodium 3571.4 mg 155%
Total Carbohydrates 4.8 g 1%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 2.4 g
protein 35.7 g 71%
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

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
🧈 High saturated fat
🥩 High protein
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

2.8%
20.5%
76.8%
Fat: 535 cal (76.8%)
Protein: 142 cal (20.5%)
Carbs: 19 cal (2.8%)

About Cured meats

Cured meats are a category of food that involves meat preservation through methods such as salting, smoking, or fermenting, a practice that dates back to ancient civilizations to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. Commonly found in cuisines from around the world, including Italian, Spanish, and Eastern European dishes, cured meats include foods like salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. Nutritionally, cured meats tend to be high in protein and fat, serving as a concentrated energy source. However, they can also be high in sodium due to the curing process and may contain nitrates or nitrites depending on the preparation methods. They are often consumed in moderation, providing flavor and texture as part of diverse dishes.

Health Benefits

  • Rich source of protein: A serving of cured meat can provide around 7-10 grams of protein per ounce, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
  • Good source of iron: Some cured meats, like salami, may contain significant amounts of heme iron, aiding in oxygen transport and supporting red blood cell production.
  • Vitamin B12 content: Many cured meats contain vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for nerve health and energy metabolism.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains soy (if added in processing), dairy (if used in preparation), sulfites
Suitable for: Low-carb diets, paleo diets
Not suitable for: Vegetarian diets, vegan diets, low-sodium diets

Selection and Storage

Store cured meats in a cool, dry place or refrigerate as per packaging instructions. Once opened, tightly wrap and consume within recommended timelines to ensure safety and freshness.

Common Questions About Cured meats Nutrition

Are cured meats high in protein?

Yes, cured meats are typically high in protein. For example, 100 grams of cured ham contains roughly 27 grams of protein, making it a rich source of this macronutrient. Protein content can vary by type of meat and curing method, so it's advisable to check labels for specific details.

Can I eat cured meats on a keto diet?

Yes, cured meats are generally keto-friendly due to their low carbohydrate content. However, some varieties may include added sugars during the curing process, so it’s important to check nutrition labels to ensure they fit within your daily carb limits.

Are cured meats healthy or hazardous to eat?

Cured meats can provide a good source of protein and vitamins like B6 and B12, but they are often high in sodium and preservatives like nitrates or nitrites. Overconsumption has been linked to health concerns such as higher risks of hypertension and some cancers, so moderation is advised.

What is the recommended portion size for cured meats?

A recommended serving size for cured meats is about 50-75 grams (2-3 ounces), depending on dietary goals. Due to the high sodium content, it’s best to pair cured meats with fresh vegetables or whole grains for a balanced meal.

How do cured meats compare to fresh meats in terms of nutrition?

Cured meats tend to have a higher sodium content and are often more calorie-dense due to the curing process. Fresh meats can provide similar protein levels without added preservatives, making them a healthier choice for regular consumption. However, cured meats offer convenience and longer shelf life.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.