Are Cumberland Sausages a Good Source of Protein?

November 25, 2025 •

3 min read

While some premium brands of Cumberland sausage boast over 15g of protein per 100g, the true nutritional value varies widely by brand. This guide explores the factors that influence the protein content and helps you understand if Cumberland sausages are a good source of protein for your diet.

Quick Summary

Cumberland sausages can be a decent protein source, but their nutritional profile is highly dependent on the brand's recipe, specifically its meat and fat content. Understanding these variations is key to assessing their health benefits and ensuring they fit into a balanced diet.

Key Points

Protein Varies by Brand: The protein content in Cumberland sausages is highly variable and depends on the specific brand's recipe, so always check the nutritional label.
High Meat Content = More Protein: Traditional Cumberland sausages with high meat percentages (80% or more) typically offer a more substantial protein serving.
Leaner Options Are Available: Some brands produce reduced-fat or high-meat-content versions, which provide a better protein-to-fat ratio for those watching their intake.
High in Fat and Salt: Despite their protein, Cumberland sausages are also high in saturated fat and sodium and should be consumed in moderation.
Balancing the Meal is Key: To incorporate them healthily, pair sausages with plenty of vegetables and choose cooking methods like grilling or baking over frying.
Check for PGI Status: Look for Traditional Cumberland sausages with PGI status to ensure a high-quality product made according to strict standards.

The Nutritional Profile of Cumberland Sausages

Cumberland sausages, a traditional specialty from the Cumbrian region of England, are known for their distinct coiled shape and peppery seasoning. However, the modern market offers a vast range of products under this name, and their nutritional composition is not uniform. A traditional, high-quality Cumberland sausage is made with a high percentage of coarsely chopped pork, which contributes to a robust protein content. In contrast, cheaper, mass-produced versions may use lower-quality meat and more fillers, significantly reducing their protein-per-gram ratio.

Protein Content Varies by Brand

For example, some high-quality butcher or premium supermarket brands can contain upwards of 15g or even 17.7g of protein per 100g, based on an 80% or higher meat content. On the other hand, some budget options may have a lower meat percentage and consequently, a lower protein count. This highlights why reading the nutritional label is the most reliable way to know exactly what you are consuming.

Factors Affecting a Sausage's Protein Level

Several factors contribute to the final protein and fat content of a sausage. These include:

Meat Content and Quality: The most significant factor is the meat percentage. Traditional Cumberland sausages have at least 80% meat content, and sometimes as high as 98%. Using high-quality pork shoulder and belly ensures a better protein-to-fat ratio.
Fat Content: Pork fat is essential for the sausage's flavour and texture. However, the amount of fat directly impacts the overall nutritional makeup. Leaner cuts or reduced-fat versions will, by definition, have a higher proportion of protein.
Additives and Fillers: The use of rusk, breadcrumbs, or other fillers can bulk up a sausage but will dilute the overall protein concentration. Traditional sausages tend to use fewer fillers, preserving their meat-forward profile.

Are Cumberland Sausages a 'Good' Source of Protein?

The designation of a 'good' protein source is subjective and depends on individual dietary goals. For someone looking for a high-volume, lean protein boost, a sausage high in fat and salt might not be the best choice. However, for a balanced meal, a high-quality Cumberland sausage can certainly be a valuable component. The pork in these sausages also provides other key nutrients, such as Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Comparing Cumberland Sausages to Other Protein Sources

It's useful to compare Cumberland sausages to other popular protein options to put their nutritional value into context. This comparison highlights that while some sausage varieties might be surprisingly high in protein, they often come with more saturated fat and sodium than lean meats or plant-based alternatives.

Cumberland Sausages vs. Other Sausages: A Protein Comparison


Sausage Type	Protein (per serving, approx.)	Fat (per serving, approx.)	Notes
Cumberland Sausage	10g-18g (per 2 sausages)	10g-25g (per 2 sausages)	Highly variable; depends on meat content and brand. High in protein but also fat.
Chicken Sausage	14g (per 77g)	9.2g (per 77g)	Generally leaner and lower in fat than pork sausages.
Pork Sausage (General)	12.7g (per 77g)	14.9g (per 77g)	Can have similar or slightly lower protein and fat than Cumberland, depending on the recipe.
Beef Sausage	13.2g (per 77g)	11.5g (per 77g)	Often leaner than pork sausages, but fat content varies widely.
Vegetarian Sausage	13.7g (per 77g)	7.6g (per 77g)	Can be a high-protein, lower-fat option depending on ingredients.

Incorporating Cumberland Sausages into a Healthy Diet

To enjoy Cumberland sausages while maintaining a balanced diet, consider these strategies:

Choose High-Quality Brands: Prioritize brands with higher meat content and check the nutrition label for the protein-to-fat ratio. Look for sausages with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status to ensure traditional quality standards.
Cook Healthily: Grill or bake sausages instead of frying them. This can reduce the amount of added fat from cooking oil.
Balance Your Meal: Pair sausages with nutrient-dense foods. Instead of serving with a fatty side, opt for roasted vegetables, salad, or a sweet potato mash.
Portion Control: Enjoy Cumberland sausages in moderation. Given their fat and salt content, they are best as an occasional treat rather than a daily protein staple.

Conclusion

In summary, are Cumberland sausages a good source of protein? Yes, they can be, particularly when you choose high-quality versions with a high meat content. They offer a significant protein contribution alongside essential vitamins and minerals. However, their high fat and salt content mean they are not the leanest protein source available and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a varied and balanced diet. Always make it a habit to check the packaging to understand the specific nutritional information of the brand you are purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

The protein content varies significantly by brand, but many good quality Cumberland sausages offer around 12-18 grams of protein per 100g serving. It is always best to check the label for exact figures.

No, Cumberland sausage is generally not considered a lean source of protein. While it contains protein, it also has a relatively high fat content. Leaner protein choices include chicken breast, fish, and legumes.

Cumberland sausages typically contain more fat than lean chicken or turkey sausages, but are comparable to or slightly higher in protein than some other pork or beef sausages. The protein-to-fat ratio is the most important comparative factor.

The two main factors are the meat content and the fat content. Sausages with a higher percentage of meat and a lower percentage of fat will contain more protein per gram.

Yes, healthier cooking methods include grilling, baking, or air-frying. These methods can reduce the overall fat content by allowing excess fat to drain away, unlike frying in oil.

Yes, as a pork product, they can be a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are important for nerve function and the immune system.

Individuals on a low-fat diet should consume Cumberland sausages in strict moderation due to their higher fat content. Opting for leaner, higher-meat-content versions and balancing the meal with vegetables can help mitigate some of the health drawbacks.