SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed** nature and high sodium content, despite providing a good amount of protein.
This SMITHFIELD ham received a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A serving provides 15.48g of protein, contributing positively to daily intake.
The product is high in sodium, with 880.95mg per 100g, a significant penalty.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs considerably from a home-cooked ham.
Consider portion control to manage sodium intake when incorporating this ham into meals.
Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
15.48g
31% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
880.95mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (15.5g)+10
−
What holds it back
Sodium (881.0mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham earns a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent.' This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product provides a substantial 15.48g of protein per 100g, which contributes a +10 bonus to its score. However, several factors significantly reduce its overall rating. The most impactful penalty is its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 penalty. This classification reflects the presence of industrial ingredients and processing methods. Additionally, the ham contains 880.95mg of sodium per 100g, leading to a -4 penalty due to its high concentration. Ingredients like sodium nitrite and sodium phosphates are used for curing and preservation, contributing to this high sodium level. The product also contains 2.5g of added sugar from dextrose. Compared to a home-cooked ham made with whole ingredients, this SMITHFIELD product contains more additives and a higher sodium content, impacting its nutritional density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smithfield anytime favorites boneless ham actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Protein Source
This SMITHFIELD ham offers a convenient source of protein, providing 15.48g per 100g serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, making this product a quick option for adding protein to meals or snacks. Its pre-cooked nature means it requires minimal preparation, fitting into busy schedules when a more elaborate protein source is not feasible. While not a primary source of micronutrients, its protein content is a notable benefit.
Versatile Meal Component
The boneless ham's format makes it a versatile ingredient for various dishes. It can be diced into salads, added to omelets, or served as a component of a main meal. This versatility allows consumers to incorporate protein into different culinary contexts, which can help meet daily protein requirements. Its mild flavor profile also means it pairs well with many other foods, enhancing the palatability of balanced meals.
Low in Saturated Fat
With only 1.19g of saturated fat per 100g, this product is relatively low in saturated fat compared to some other meat products. Limiting saturated fat intake is generally recommended for cardiovascular health. This attribute can make it a suitable choice for individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fats, provided other nutritional factors like sodium are also considered within the context of their overall diet.
SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing a good amount of protein.
How to eat it
SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham is typically consumed as a main dish or as an ingredient in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. A common portion is around 3 ounces (85g). Due to its high sodium content, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and balance it with low-sodium foods.
Pair with fresh vegetables and whole grains to create a more balanced meal and dilute the sodium impact.
Use smaller portions, such as 1-2 ounces, when adding to salads or omelets to manage sodium intake.
Consider using this ham as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily protein staple to reduce overall processed food consumption.
Rinse the ham lightly before heating to potentially reduce some surface sodium, though this will not significantly alter the overall sodium content.
Combine with unsalted ingredients like plain rice, potatoes, or fresh fruit to offset the ham's sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several food additives, including sodium phosphates, sodium diacetate, and sodium erythorbate, which are common in cured meats for preservation and texture. The high sodium content (880.95mg per 100g) is a significant concern, particularly for individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Children and individuals sensitive to high sodium intake should consume this product in moderation. While dextrose is present, the added sugar content is relatively low (2.5g per 100g). There are no declared allergens on the label, but consumers with specific sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
Is SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham healthy?
SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides a good amount of protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and balanced with whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SMITHFIELD ham compare to other brands or generic ham?
Compared to a generic, home-cooked ham made from whole ingredients, SMITHFIELD Anytime Favorites Boneless Ham contains more additives and a higher sodium level. When comparing to other branded deli hams like Oscar Mayer, nutritional profiles can vary. Always check the nutrition facts panel, especially for sodium and added sugar, as these are common differences across brands in this category.
What is the role of sodium nitrite in this ham?
Sodium nitrite is a curing agent used in products like this SMITHFIELD ham. Its primary functions are to preserve the meat, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, and contribute to the characteristic pink color and flavor of cured ham. It is a common ingredient in many processed meats, and its use is regulated.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ham?
A reasonable portion size is typically 3 ounces (85g), as indicated on the nutrition label. However, due to its high sodium content, individuals monitoring their sodium intake might consider smaller portions, such as 1-2 ounces, especially if consuming other high-sodium foods throughout the day. Balancing it with low-sodium foods is key.
Can I eat this ham every day?
While technically possible, consuming this SMITHFIELD ham daily is not recommended due to its high sodium content and ultra-processed nature. Regular intake of high-sodium, ultra-processed foods can contribute to health concerns over time. It is best enjoyed occasionally as part of a varied diet rich in whole foods.
Does this ham contain added sugar?
Yes, this ham contains added sugar in the form of dextrose, as listed in the ingredients. Per 100g, there are 2.5g of added sugar. While this amount is relatively low compared to many other processed foods, it contributes to the overall added sugar intake and is a factor to consider for those monitoring sugar consumption.