Tag: Canned ham

Deviled ham has been a pantry staple since the late 1800s, with Underwood being the most famous brand, known for its distinctive red devil logo. This canned meat spread has a long history, dating back to 1868 when the William Underwood Company began offering its spicy, ground ham product. Its enduring popularity is often attributed to its simple ingredients and robust flavor, perfect for quick snacks and meals.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund, any meat preserved by smoking, curing, salting, or adding chemical preservatives is classified as processed. This definition unequivocally places canned ham within the processed meat category due to the methods used to extend its shelf life and enhance its flavor. Understanding the processing involved and its health implications is key to making informed dietary choices.

While a staple in pantries for its convenience and long shelf life, a single serving of some canned hams can contain over half the daily recommended sodium intake. Understanding the full picture of this processed meat, from its sodium levels to preservatives, is crucial for making informed dietary choices.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global average sodium intake is more than double the recommended amount, largely due to processed foods like canned meats. Canned ham, a convenient and shelf-stable product, is a major contributor to this excess sodium consumption.

According to the USDA, a 1-ounce (28g) serving of canned chopped ham contains approximately 68 calories, with the precise amount varying by brand and processing. The calorie count for fresh, non-canned chopped ham is often lower per ounce, highlighting the importance of checking product labels.