Chicken spread
Category: Sausages & Luncheon Meats
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
89
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 89 (100.0%) |
| Protein | 40 (45.4%) |
| Carbohydrate | 9.1 (10.2%) |
| Total | 89 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving (1 serving) [56g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 32 (57.4%) |
| Protein | 10 (18.0%) |
| Fat | 9.9 (17.6%) |
| Carbohydrate | 2.3 (4.1%) |
| Ash | 1.7 (3.0%) |
| Total | 56 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving (1 serving) [56g]
Benefits
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Chicken spread is a good source of high-quality protein. Protein helps build and repair muscles and tissues throughout the body
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It contains B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin and vitamin B6. These B vitamins help support energy production and metabolism
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Chicken spread is low in fat and calories compared to other meat spreads. This makes it a healthier option for sandwiches and snacks
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The protein in chicken spread keeps you feeling full for longer and helps control appetite. This can aid weight management
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It contains selenium and phosphorus which are important minerals for thyroid and bone health respectively
Risks
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High in sodium if processed or canned chicken spread is consumed. Excess sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure
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May contain preservatives like nitrates which are potentially carcinogenic in large amounts. Nitrates can form nitrosamines in the body
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Spreads made from skin and bones may be high in saturated fat and cholesterol depending on ingredients used. Excess saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol
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Potential risk of foodborne illness if spread is made with raw chicken and not properly refrigerated. Raw chicken can harbor bacteria like salmonella
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May be high in calories depending on added ingredients like mayonnaise or cream cheese. Overconsumption could contribute to weight gain
Additional Information
Chicken spread is a versatile food product that offers several nutritional benefits, but it also comes with certain risks. Let's delve into the primary attribute and secondary attributes of chicken spread to understand its nutritional profile.
The primary attribute of chicken spread is its high protein content. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting the immune system, and producing enzymes and hormones. Protein also helps in maintaining a feeling of fullness, making it beneficial for weight management.
Secondary attributes of chicken spread include its fat and sodium content. While the fat content can vary depending on the specific brand and recipe, chicken spread generally contains moderate amounts of fat. It is important to note that not all fats are unhealthy, and chicken spread can provide healthy unsaturated fats, especially if made with lean chicken meat. Unsaturated fats are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases when consumed in moderation.
On the other hand, the sodium content in chicken spread can be a potential risk. Many commercially available chicken spreads contain added salt or sodium-based preservatives, which can contribute to high sodium intake. Excessive sodium consumption is associated with increased blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease and other health complications. Therefore, it is advisable to choose low-sodium or reduced-sodium options or consider making homemade chicken spread to control the sodium content.
Furthermore, the nutritional benefits and risks of chicken spread can also depend on the ingredients used and the preparation method. Some chicken spreads may contain additional ingredients like mayonnaise, cream, or other flavor enhancers, which can increase the calorie and fat content. If you are watching your calorie intake or trying to manage your weight, it is crucial to consider the overall nutritional composition of the chicken spread, including the ingredients used.
To make a healthier chicken spread, you can opt for homemade versions using cooked chicken breast, Greek yogurt, or mashed avocado as a base. These alternatives provide additional nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Additionally, adding vegetables like celery, onions, or herbs can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the spread.
In conclusion, chicken spread offers several nutritional benefits, primarily due to its high protein content. It can be a convenient and tasty way to incorporate lean protein into your diet. However, it is important to be mindful of the fat and sodium content in commercially available options. Opting for low-sodium or homemade versions can help mitigate the risks associated with excessive sodium intake. As with any food product, moderation and balance are key to enjoying the nutritional benefits of chicken spread while minimizing potential risks.