Nutrition Facts: How many carbs are in boar's head salami?

November 5, 2025 •

5 min read

Most Boar's Head salami varieties contain only 1 gram of total carbohydrates per serving, making them a very low-carb option for sandwiches or charcuterie boards. Understanding how many carbs are in boar's head salami? is key for those monitoring their intake, especially for a ketogenic diet.

Quick Summary

Boar's Head Genoa and Hard Salami typically contain 1 gram of total carbohydrates per serving. These varieties are also rich in protein and fat, though high in sodium, making them suitable for low-carb diets when consumed in moderation. The exact nutritional content varies by product.

Key Points

Low Carbohydrate Content: Most Boar's Head salami varieties, including Hard Salami and Genoa, contain only 1 gram of total carbohydrates per serving, making them very low-carb.
Keto-Friendly Option: Due to its minimal carb count, Boar's Head salami can fit into a ketogenic or low-carb diet, provided high sodium and fat intake are balanced.
High in Fat and Protein: While low in carbs, salami is calorie-dense and high in both fat and protein, which can promote satiety.
Significant Sodium Content: As a cured meat, all Boar's Head salami varieties are high in sodium, which should be monitored, especially for those with hypertension.
Moderation is Key: Due to its high sodium and saturated fat, salami should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, rather than as a daily staple.
Nutritional Variation Exists: While the carb count is consistent, the fat and sodium levels vary slightly between Hard Salami and Genoa Salami, so checking the label is important.

The Carb Count: A Breakdown by Salami Type

For those on a low-carb, keto, or general health-conscious diet, the carbohydrate content of processed meats is a primary concern. The good news is that most traditional Boar's Head salami products are very low in carbohydrates, making them a compliant choice for restricted-carb diets. While the overall macro balance and sodium levels require attention, the carb count itself is minimal. Below is a breakdown of the carbohydrate content for some of the most popular Boar's Head salami varieties.

Boar's Head Hard Salami and Uncured Hard Salami

Both Boar's Head Hard Salami and its Uncured counterpart generally contain 1 gram of total carbohydrate per serving. For a standard 1 oz (28g) serving of Hard Salami, this amounts to 0% of the Daily Value, with no dietary fiber and no sugar. Similarly, the Uncured Hard Salami contains 1 gram of carbs per a 1 oz (28g) serving, with 1 gram of sugar included. The minimal carbohydrate content is a result of the traditional curing process, which does not require the addition of large amounts of sugar or starchy fillers.

Boar's Head Genoa Salami

Boar's Head Genoa Salami is also a very low-carb option, listing 1 gram of total carbohydrates per serving. A serving size for this variety is typically larger, at 2 oz (56g), which provides 0% of the Daily Value for total carbs, dietary fiber, and sugars. This confirms that whether you prefer the smoky flavor of hard salami or the tangy, rich taste of Genoa, the carbohydrate impact remains very low.

Genoa Salami vs. Hard Salami: Key Nutritional Differences

Beyond the similar carb count, Boar's Head's Genoa and Hard Salami differ in other key nutritional aspects, particularly fat and sodium content. These differences can be significant for anyone watching their intake of these macros. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison for a 1 oz (28g) serving of each type.


Nutrient (per 1 oz)	Hard Salami	Genoa Salami*
Calories	110	95
Total Fat	9g	7.5g
Saturated Fat	3.5g	2.5g
Total Carbohydrate	1g	0.5g
Protein	6g	6g
Sodium	430mg	435mg

*Note: Genoa Salami is typically served in 2 oz (56g) portions. This table has adjusted the values to a 1 oz (28g) comparison for easier contrast. A 2 oz serving of Genoa has 1g of carbs and 870mg sodium.

Beyond Carbs: A Complete Nutritional Profile

While the low carbohydrate content of Boar's Head salami is a major draw for some diets, a comprehensive look at its nutritional profile is essential for balanced eating. Processed meats, including salami, are generally high in other compounds that should be monitored.

High Fat and Saturated Fat Content: Salami is a calorie-dense food, primarily due to its fat content, including saturated fat. While fat is a key macronutrient on a ketogenic diet, moderation is still advised as part of a balanced diet to manage overall calorie intake and reduce the risk of certain health conditions.
High Sodium Levels: As a cured and salted meat, Boar's Head salami has a high sodium content. A 1 oz serving of Hard Salami provides 430mg of sodium, while a 2 oz serving of Genoa provides 870mg. This can be a significant portion of the recommended daily intake and is a major consideration for those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular concerns. The FDA considers 20% of the daily value or more of sodium per serving to be high.
Protein and Essential Nutrients: Despite the potential drawbacks, salami is a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. It also provides essential B vitamins, such as B12, and minerals like zinc and iron.

Fitting Boar's Head Salami into Your Diet

For many, salami can be a delicious and convenient addition to a diet, but it should be consumed thoughtfully. Here are some strategies for incorporating it healthily:

For Keto and Low-Carb Diets: The minimal carb count makes Boar's Head salami an excellent, flavorful option. However, given the high sodium, it is critical to balance your overall electrolyte intake and drink plenty of water. Monitor your portion sizes to stay within your daily calorie and sodium limits.
For General Healthy Eating: The World Health Organization classifies processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens and recommends limiting consumption. For general health, it's best to enjoy salami as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. When you do have it, pair it with nutrient-dense, low-sodium foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

Here are some healthy ways to enjoy salami in moderation:

Create a balanced charcuterie board with sliced salami, nuts, seeds, and assorted raw vegetables.
Chop salami and toss it into a fresh salad for a protein and flavor boost.
Wrap a slice around a cheese stick or pickle spear for a quick, high-protein, low-carb snack.
Add a few pieces to scrambled eggs or an omelet instead of bacon or sausage.

Making Healthier Deli Meat Choices

For those seeking alternatives or simply aiming for a healthier approach to deli meats, several options can reduce the intake of preservatives, saturated fat, and sodium:

Look for Lower Sodium Options: Some brands, including Boar's Head, offer reduced-sodium versions of their products. Checking the nutritional label for the % Daily Value (%DV) for sodium is a good way to compare options.
Choose Uncured Varieties: Uncured deli meats use natural sources like celery powder for curing instead of synthetic nitrites. While still processed and high in sodium, some consumers prefer this option.
Prepare Your Own Meats: The healthiest option is to prepare your own deli meat from fresh cuts of meat. You can bake or roast your own turkey, chicken, or roast beef and then slice it for sandwiches throughout the week. This gives you complete control over ingredients and sodium content.
Mix it Up with Leaner Proteins: Diversify your protein sources with alternatives like canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, or sliced roasted chicken.

Conclusion

Boar's Head salami is unequivocally low in carbohydrates, making it a viable option for those following strict low-carb or ketogenic diets. However, it is crucial to recognize that the nutritional story doesn't end there. As a processed meat, salami is also high in fat, saturated fat, and especially sodium, which can pose health risks if consumed in excess. The key to including any processed meat in a healthy diet lies in moderation and balance. By being mindful of serving sizes and pairing salami with healthier, low-sodium food choices, you can enjoy its flavor while maintaining a more nutritious eating plan. For more detailed information on nutrition, the FDA's guide on understanding nutrition labels is a valuable resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Boar's Head salami is suitable for a keto diet because it is very low in carbohydrates, with most varieties containing just 1 gram per serving. However, due to its high fat and sodium content, it should be consumed in moderation.

The sodium content varies by product. For instance, a 1 oz serving of Hard Salami has 430mg of sodium, while a standard 2 oz serving of Genoa Salami contains a significant 870mg.

Serving sizes vary between products. For Boar's Head Hard Salami, a typical serving is 1 oz (28g). For Genoa Salami, the standard serving is 2 oz (56g).

Some varieties contain small amounts of added sugar, such as dextrose, as part of the curing process. However, the overall sugar content per serving is usually very low, at 1 gram or less.

The primary difference is the type of preservative used. Uncured salami uses natural preservatives like celery powder, while cured salami uses synthetic sodium nitrite. Both are processed, and uncured salami can sometimes have higher sodium levels. It is important to check the nutritional label for other factors like fat and overall sodium content.

According to the World Health Organization and other cancer research organizations, the consumption of processed meats has been linked with an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. For this reason, it is recommended to eat processed meats sparingly.

Healthier alternatives include freshly cooked and sliced turkey, chicken, or roast beef, which can be made at home to control sodium and fat. Other options include canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, or plant-based proteins like tempeh.