John Morrell Braunschweiger Nutritional Profile
When examining the nutritional content of John Morrell Braunschweiger, the caloric density is the first detail to note. A single 2 oz (56g) serving provides 180 calories, with a significant portion coming from its fat content. This is a key factor for anyone tracking their daily caloric intake, especially those on a calorie-restricted diet. The overall macronutrient breakdown indicates that this liver sausage is not only a source of calories but also a notable provider of fat and protein.
Detailed Macronutrient Breakdown
For a standard 2 oz serving, the macronutrient breakdown reveals the following:
- Total Fat: 15 grams, which accounts for approximately 23% of the Daily Value (DV).
- Saturated Fat: 6 grams, representing 30% of the DV.
- Total Carbohydrates: 3 grams, a very low amount, making it a viable option for those on a low-carb diet.
- Protein: 7 to 8 grams, providing a good source of this essential nutrient.
The high fat content, particularly saturated fat, is a key consideration. While providing energy and flavor, it's important to consume high-fat foods in moderation, especially for those concerned with heart health. Conversely, the low carbohydrate count and high protein make it a potential fit for specific dietary plans, such as keto or carnivore diets.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
Beyond the macronutrients, John Morrell Braunschweiger also contains several important vitamins and minerals, largely due to its pork liver content. These include:
- Vitamin A: Braunschweiger is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is crucial for vision and immune function.
- Iron: The liver sausage provides a good source of iron, an essential mineral for red blood cell production.
- Sodium: With 570 mg per 2 oz serving, the sodium content is quite high, contributing 24% of the DV. This is an important factor for individuals monitoring their salt intake due to blood pressure concerns.
- B Vitamins: The product is also a source of B-complex vitamins, which support cellular energy and overall metabolic health.
Ingredient Analysis
Understanding the ingredients provides further context to the nutritional profile. The primary components of John Morrell Braunschweiger include:
- Pork Liver and Pork
- Bacon (cured with water, salt, and preservatives like sodium nitrite)
- Modified Food Starch and Corn Syrup
- Salt, flavorings, and additional preservatives
These ingredients explain the product's high fat and sodium levels. The inclusion of bacon, starch, and corn syrup contributes to both flavor and the final caloric count, while the preservatives ensure shelf stability.
Calorie Comparison: John Morrell vs. Other Braunschweiger Brands
To put the calories of John Morrell Braunschweiger into perspective, it's helpful to compare its nutritional information with other popular brands. While the base ingredients are often similar, slight variations in formulation can lead to different calorie counts.
| Feature | John Morrell Braunschweiger (2 oz) | Deutsche Kuche Braunschweiger (2 oz) | Dietz & Watson Braunschweiger (2 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal | 160 kcal | 170 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15 g | 13 g | 14 g |
| Protein | 7-8 g | 7 g | 8 g |
| Sodium | 570 mg | 600 mg | 530 mg |
As the table shows, the calorie counts are relatively consistent across brands, though some variations in fat and sodium levels exist. The differences are not significant enough to drastically alter its dietary impact, but they are worth noting for those keeping a close eye on specific macros.
How to Incorporate Braunschweiger into Your Diet
Braunschweiger's rich flavor makes it a versatile ingredient, but how you serve it can impact the overall nutritional value. Some common methods include:
- Classic Sandwich: Spread on whole-grain bread with stone-ground mustard, onion, and lettuce. Using less bread or opting for thin slices can reduce the total carbohydrate intake.
- Snack with Crackers: A simple and filling snack, but consider pairing with low-sodium crackers to balance the high sodium content of the braunschweiger.
- In a Hash: Adding chopped braunschweiger to a breakfast hash with potatoes and vegetables can be a hearty and flavorful meal.
- As a Dip: Mixing braunschweiger with a small amount of cream cheese and spices creates a rich dip that can be served with fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
In summary, John Morrell Braunschweiger contains 180 calories per 2 oz serving, with a profile dominated by fat and protein. While it provides excellent sources of Vitamin A and iron, its high fat and sodium levels mean it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those with specific health concerns. Its low carbohydrate content makes it suitable for certain low-carb diets. By being mindful of serving size and pairing it with other nutritious foods, one can enjoy its unique flavor as part of a balanced diet. For more information on braunschweiger generally, you can explore resources from trusted meat producers such as Jones Dairy Farm.
Note: All nutritional information should be verified with the current product label, as formulations can change over time. The data provided here is based on available information at the time of writing.
