Calorie Breakdown by Sausage Type
Whole Foods Market, through its in-house 365 brand and other offerings, provides a variety of breakfast sausages. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for some of the most popular choices, based on available data.
Whole Foods Market Sage Pork Breakfast Sausage
This product, often found in the refrigerated meat section, is one of the more calorie-dense options. A single, uncooked piece (100g) contains approximately:
- Calories: 260
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Protein: 16g
365 by Whole Foods Market Classic Pork Breakfast Links (Frozen)
For those who prefer links, this frozen option offers a different nutritional profile. A serving of three links (59g) contains:
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Protein: 9g
365 by Whole Foods Market Pork & Maple Breakfast Links (Frozen)
This sweet and savory option has a slightly different makeup than the classic pork links. A serving of three links (59g) includes:
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Protein: 9g
- Sugars: 3g (due to the maple)
365 by Whole Foods Market Savory Chicken Breakfast Links (Frozen)
Typically the leanest and lowest-calorie choice, the chicken sausage is a popular alternative for those watching their intake. A serving of three links (59g) provides:
- Calories: 110
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Protein: 10g
Beyond Calories: A Nutritional Comparison
While calories are a key metric, it is also important to compare the other nutritional aspects of Whole Foods' breakfast sausage varieties. As shown below, the choice of protein and added ingredients like maple sugar can significantly impact the overall health profile.
Nutritional Comparison Table (Per Serving)
| Product | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Sodium | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Pork Sausage (100g) | 260 | 21g | 8g | 710mg | 16g |
| 365 Classic Pork Links (3 links) | 190 | 17g | 6g | 380mg | 9g |
| 365 Pork & Maple Links (3 links) | 160 | 12g | 4g | 440mg | 9g |
| 365 Savory Chicken Links (3 links) | 110 | 7g | 2g | 350mg | 10g |
Healthy Choices and Considerations
Choosing a breakfast sausage goes beyond simply counting calories. Health-conscious consumers should also consider the following:
- Fat and Sodium Content: Sausage, by nature, can be high in both total fat and sodium. As the comparison table shows, the Sage Pork option is notably higher in both. Excessive intake of saturated fat and sodium can contribute to health issues over time.
- Protein Source: Chicken sausage generally offers a leaner protein source compared to pork. The 365 chicken links provide a good amount of protein for their low-calorie and fat content.
- Added Sugars: Products like the Pork & Maple links contain added sugars, which can increase the overall calorie and carbohydrate count. For those on a keto or low-sugar diet, checking the ingredients is crucial.
- Processing and Ingredients: The level of processing can vary. Checking the ingredient list for fillers, preservatives, and other additives is recommended. Whole Foods emphasizes quality ingredients, but reading the label is always the best practice.
Here are some tips for making a healthier choice:
- Read the label carefully for the most accurate information.
- Consider chicken or turkey-based sausages for lower fat and calorie options.
- Portion control is key, especially with higher-calorie varieties.
- Pair your sausage with nutrient-rich foods like vegetables or whole grains to create a balanced meal.
- Cooking method can also affect overall healthiness. Pan-frying in added fat increases calories, while baking or air-frying can reduce them.
For more detailed product-specific nutritional information, visiting the Whole Foods Market website is recommended. The official product page for the Savory Chicken Breakfast Sausage provides a detailed breakdown of its ingredients and nutrients: 365 by Whole Foods Market, Savory Chicken Breakfast Sausage.
Conclusion
When asking how many calories are in Whole Foods breakfast sausage, the answer depends entirely on the specific product chosen. The nutritional content, including calories, fat, and sodium, varies significantly between different pork and chicken varieties. While the 365 Savory Chicken links represent a low-calorie, high-protein option, other selections like the Sage Pork sausage contain considerably more calories and fat per serving. Always check the nutrition facts on the label to make the best decision for your dietary needs.
