Decoding the Sweetness: Does Boar's Head Ham Contain Sugar?
The answer to the question, "Does Boar's Head ham have sugar in it?" isn't straightforward. The sugar content depends on the specific ham product. Numerous deli hams, like the Branded Deluxe Ham and Tavern Ham, include sugar and dextrose in their ingredients. Consumers can also find "Remarkably Sugar Free" hams from Boar's Head to minimize sugar intake. Monitoring sugar intake is important for health and specific diets like the keto diet.
Why Sugar is a Ham Ingredient
Sugar has been added to cured meats for a long time. It provides these benefits:
- Flavor Balance: Sugar balances the saltiness, enhancing the flavor.
- Curing Process: It is part of the curing mix, which includes salt and nitrites, to enhance flavor and color.
- Tenderization: Sugars can tenderize meat, improving its texture.
- Browning: During cooking, sugars caramelize, giving a golden-brown color.
Examples of Boar's Head Hams with Added Sugar
Many of Boar's Head's ham products contain added sugar. Check the ingredient list for confirmation. Examples include:
- Branded Deluxe Ham: The ingredients state "Sugar, Dextrose". It has 2g of total sugars per serving.
- Tavern Ham: This ham is also cured with "Sugar, Dextrose" and has 2g of sugar per serving.
- Brown Sugar & Spice Delight® Off the Bone Ham: Coated with sugar and brown sugar for a sweet and savory taste. It has 3g of sugar per serving.
- Maple Glazed Honey Coat Ham: This variety is coated with honey, maple syrup, and sugar, resulting in a higher sugar content.
Sugar-Free Ham Choices from Boar's Head
Boar's Head offers sugar-free alternatives. These hams are cured without added sugar or dextrose. Always check the label. Options include:
- Sweet Slice® Boneless Smoked Uncured Ham: This product has 0g of sugar per serving. The main ingredients are fresh ham, water, and sea salt.
- Uncured Hams: Some uncured hams, especially "All Natural," may be cured using only sea salt and celery powder, which contains natural nitrates but no added sugar. Always read the label.
- Remarkably Sugar Free Products: Boar's Head has a dedicated list of sugar-free products on its website.
Understanding the Difference: Sugar vs. Dextrose
Both "sugar" and "dextrose" are often listed on ham ingredients. Sugar, in this context, means sucrose, or common table sugar, while dextrose is a simple sugar derived from corn. Both are used to affect flavor and curing. They function as added sugars, contributing to the carbohydrate and sugar content.
Comparing Sugar and Carbs in Boar's Head Hams
The following table compares the sugar and carbohydrate content in a 2 oz (56g) serving of several Boar's Head hams, based on publicly available nutrition facts.
| Product Name | Added Sugar Listed? | Total Sugars (2 oz) | Total Carbs (2 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Branded Deluxe Ham | Yes (Sugar, Dextrose) | 2g | 2g |
| Tavern Ham | Yes (Sugar, Dextrose) | 2g | 2g |
| Brown Sugar & Spice Delight® | Yes (Brown Sugar, Sugar) | 3g | 3g |
| Sweet Slice® Uncured Ham | No | 0g | 1g |
Steps to Identify Sugar in Boar's Head Ham
To determine if a specific Boar's Head ham contains sugar:
- Check the Ingredients: Look for "sugar" or "dextrose" in the ingredients. These indicate added sugar.
- Look for "Sugar Free" Labeling: Boar's Head has sugar-free products. These are a safe option if you're avoiding sugar.
- Review the Nutrition Facts: The "Total Sugars" line shows the total sugar content. Uncured products are unlikely to have natural sugars, so 0g total sugar is a good sign. The new FDA labels also specify "Added Sugars".
Curing vs. Glazing: What's the Difference?
It is helpful to differentiate between sugar for curing and sugar for glazing. Most deli hams have sugar added during curing. Specialty hams, such as the Maple Glazed or Brown Sugar varieties, feature a glaze applied after curing. Glazed hams usually have a higher sugar content. Consider if you want a savory or sweeter ham when choosing.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You
Whether Boar's Head ham contains sugar depends on the specific variety. Many contain added sugar and dextrose for flavor and curing, but sugar-free options are available. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition label to make an informed choice based on dietary needs and preferences. Boar's Head has a variety of products, offering choices for consumers, whether they want a hint of sweetness or a completely sugar-free option. For a list of their sugar-free products, visit the official Boar's Head website.
