Sausage, breakfast sausage, beef, pre-cooked


 Category: Sausages & Luncheon Meats  Characteristics: Unprepared

 Nutrition Highlights 


 Serving Size

 Calories

62


 Nutrient
% Daily Value*

  Total Fat 5.4 g
7 %

     MUFA 2.6 g   High

     PUFA 0.3 g

     Trans Fat 0.2 g   High

     Saturated Fat 2.1 g   High
11 %

  Cholesterol 11 mg
4 %

  Sodium 172 mg
7 %

  Protein 2.5 g
5 %

  Total Carbohydrate 0.9 g
0 %

     Total Sugars 0.2 g

  Water 9.7 g

  Minerals --
     Selenium 2.2 mcg
4 %

     Calcium 5.5 mg
0 %

     Potassium 54 mg
1 %

     Zinc 0.4 mg
4 %

     Iron 0.3 mg
2 %

     Magnesium 3.4 mg
1 %

     Phosphorus 24 mg
2 %

     Copper 0.01 mg
1 %

     Manganese 0.03 mg
1 %

  Vitamins --
     Vitamin E 0.09 mg
1 %

     Vitamin D 0.02 mcg
0 %

     Folate / B9 1.3 mcg
0 %

     Vitamin K 0.5 mcg
0 %

     Niacin / B3 0.5 mg
3 %

     Pantothenic acid / B5 0.06 mg
1 %

     Vitamin B6 0.03 mg
2 %

     Vitamin B12 0.2 mcg
9 %

     Thiamin / B1 0.01 mg
1 %

     Riboflavin / B2 0.02 mg
2 %

     Vitamin A 4.4 mcg
0 %


*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 48 (77.6%)
 Protein 9.8 (15.8%)
 Carbohydrate 3.5 (5.6%)
Total 62 (100%)

 Serving: 1 link [19g]


 Composition 
  Nutrient Weight g (%)
 Water 9.7 (51.2%)
 Fat 5.4 (28.2%)
 Protein 2.5 (12.9%)
 Carbohydrate 0.9 (4.6%)
 Ash 0.6 (3.1%)
Total 19 (100%)

 Serving: 1 link [19g]


 Benefits 
  • High in protein, with around 12 grams of protein per sausage link. Protein helps build and repair muscles

  • A good source of B vitamins like niacin, vitamin B12, and riboflavin which are important for energy production and red blood cell formation

  • Contains iron and zinc which support immune function and cell growth

  • Provides calories to fuel your day from fat and protein. One sausage link has around 70 calories

  • May help you feel full and satisfied due to its protein content which can aid weight management when consumed as part of an overall healthy diet

 Risks 
  • High in saturated fat and sodium which can increase risk of heart disease

  • Processed meat has been linked to increased risk of certain cancers

  • May contain preservatives like sodium nitrite which have been linked to cancer

  • High in calories and fat which can contribute to weight gain

  • Depending on ingredients, may be high in calories from added sugars


 Additional Information 

Sausage, specifically breakfast sausage, made from beef and pre-cooked but unprepared, is a food product that offers both nutritional benefits and risks. Let's delve into these aspects to understand its overall impact on one's health.

Starting with the nutritional benefits, breakfast sausage made from beef provides a good source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and hormone synthesis. It also helps to keep us feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.

Beef-based breakfast sausage also contains essential vitamins and minerals. It is a notable source of vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. Additionally, it provides minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, which are important for immune function, energy production, and antioxidant defense.

However, it is important to note that breakfast sausage, particularly the pre-cooked and unprepared variety, also carries certain risks. One of the primary concerns is its high saturated fat content. Saturated fats, when consumed in excess, can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease and high cholesterol levels. Therefore, moderation is key when including sausage in a balanced diet.

Moreover, processed meats like breakfast sausage have been associated with an increased risk of certain health conditions. Research has linked regular consumption of processed meats to a higher likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, due to the presence of certain compounds formed during processing. Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of processed meats, including breakfast sausage, and opt for healthier alternatives whenever possible.

Another consideration is the sodium content in breakfast sausage. Processed meats are often high in sodium, which can lead to elevated blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is crucial to be mindful of sodium intake, especially for individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions.

To make breakfast sausage a healthier choice, there are a few strategies to consider. Firstly, opt for leaner cuts of beef when possible, as this can reduce the overall saturated fat content. Secondly, choose lower-sodium varieties or rinse the sausage under running water before cooking to reduce sodium levels. Lastly, balance the meal by incorporating plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods alongside the sausage.

In conclusion, breakfast sausage made from beef and pre-cooked but unprepared offers nutritional benefits such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it also carries risks due to its high saturated fat and sodium content. To enjoy sausage as part of a healthy diet, it is important to consume it in moderation, choose leaner options, and balance the meal with other nutritious foods. As with any food, variety and moderation are key to maintaining a well-rounded and nourishing diet.