IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **high sodium content**, despite providing notable protein and micronutrients.
This product scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
It provides 12.5g of protein and is fortified with essential micronutrients like Vitamin B12 (223% DV) and Zinc (61% DV).
A serving contains 660.71mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike a home-cooked alternative.
Consider this product as an occasional option rather than a daily staple.
Scores +0 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it earns points for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, and for being fortified with several micronutrients, including Vitamin B12 (223% DV), Zinc (61% DV), and Iron (15% DV). However, significant penalties are applied due to its nutritional profile and processing. It contains 7.14g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a penalty. The sodium content is also high at 660.71mg per 100g, which is a notable detractor. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a substantial penalty. The presence of sunflower oil and coconut oil as primary fat sources, combined with its ultra-processed nature, also contributes to a penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat. Compared to a home-cooked sausage made from whole ingredients, this IMPOSSIBLE product has a more complex ingredient list and a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in impossible sausage made from plants spicy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This product offers 12.5g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. For individuals seeking plant-based protein sources, this can be a convenient option to include in meals. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in various bodily functions, and incorporating sufficient amounts is important for overall health. This product can help meet daily protein needs, especially for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Fortified with Key Micronutrients
IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy is fortified with several important vitamins and minerals. It provides a significant amount of Vitamin B12 (223% DV) and Zinc (61% DV) per 100g, along with Iron (15% DV) and Folate (18% DV). These nutrients are often a concern for individuals on plant-based diets, and fortification helps address potential dietary gaps. Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation, while zinc supports immune function and metabolism.
A Plant-Based Alternative
For those looking to reduce their consumption of animal products or follow a plant-based diet, this product offers a convenient meat alternative. It can be incorporated into various recipes where traditional sausage would be used, providing a familiar texture and flavor profile. Choosing plant-based options can align with dietary preferences and may contribute to a more diverse intake of foods, though the overall nutritional profile of this specific product should be considered.
IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing notable protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
Impossible Sausage Made From Plants Spicy is typically consumed as a breakfast item, often pan-fried or crumbled into other dishes. A common serving size is 2oz (56g), which is about one patty. Be mindful of portion sizes to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain toast or a side of vegetables to enhance overall meal nutrition.
Crumble into a vegetable scramble or frittata to add flavor and protein without making it the sole focus of the meal.
Use as a flavorful addition to pasta sauces or chili, but consider reducing other sources of sodium in the dish.
Limit consumption to occasional meals rather than daily use due to its ultra-processed nature and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy protein concentrate and soy leghemoglobin, making it unsuitable for individuals with soy allergies. The high sodium content (660.71mg per 100g) should be noted, particularly for those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives such as methylcellulose and modified food starch, which may not be ideal for individuals seeking a diet composed primarily of whole, minimally processed ingredients. While generally safe for most adults, individuals with sensitive digestive systems might consider the impact of these ingredients.
Is IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy healthy?
IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. While it provides protein and is fortified with key micronutrients like Vitamin B12 and Zinc, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium and saturated fat content mean it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a substitute for whole, unprocessed foods.
How does IMPOSSIBLE Sausage compare to traditional pork sausage?
Compared to traditional pork sausage, IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy offers a plant-based alternative. Nutritionally, it often has a similar or slightly lower saturated fat content depending on the specific pork sausage, but can still be high in sodium. For example, some brands of pork sausage like Jimmy Dean Original Pork Sausage may have comparable sodium levels, but IMPOSSIBLE provides a cholesterol-free option.
What is soy leghemoglobin?
Soy leghemoglobin is an ingredient derived from soy that IMPOSSIBLE Foods uses to give its products a meat-like flavor and appearance. It's a heme-containing protein, similar to the heme found in animal muscle, and is responsible for the 'bloody' look and taste. It is considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies.
What is a recommended portion size for this product?
The recommended serving size for IMPOSSIBLE Sausage Made From Plants Spicy is 2oz (56g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of sodium (370mg per serving) and saturated fat (4g per serving). Consuming larger portions regularly would significantly increase your daily intake of these nutrients, which may not be ideal for a heart-healthy diet.
Can this product be part of a weight management plan?
While this product provides protein, which can aid satiety, its calorie density (232.14 calories per 100g) and fat content mean it should be consumed mindfully within a weight management plan. Focus on portion control and balance it with plenty of vegetables and whole grains to create a calorie-appropriate and nutrient-dense meal.