Which Sausage Has the Highest Fat Content?

January 3, 2026 •

3 min read

According to a survey from the UK Food Safety Agency, the average fat content of sampled pork sausages was around 40%. While pork is often considered a high-fat choice, determining which sausage has the highest fat content requires looking at the specific ingredients and preparation methods for different regional varieties, such as Mexican chorizo and blood sausage.

Quick Summary

A comparison of various sausages reveals that Mexican chorizo and blood sausage typically have the highest fat content, often exceeding 30-40% by weight. Factors like meat cuts, added fats, and curing processes significantly influence the final nutritional profile, resulting in major differences between sausage types.

Key Points

Mexican Chorizo is Typically the Fattiest: Raw Mexican chorizo often contains the highest fat percentage, sometimes exceeding 40% by weight, due to a high proportion of added pork fat.
Blood Sausage is High in Fat: Blood sausage (black pudding) also has a very high fat content, with some recipes containing over 34 grams of fat per 100g serving.
Pork Sausage Varies Greatly: The fat content of fresh pork sausage is highly variable and depends on the meat cuts and brand; some premium varieties can be fattier than ever before.
Cooking Renders Fat: When cooked, high-fat sausages like chorizo will render a significant amount of fat, meaning the fat consumed is less than the raw nutritional data.
Leaner Alternatives Exist: For those seeking lower fat options, chicken and turkey sausages are generally the leanest varieties available.
Always Check the Label: Brand and recipe variations mean that the most accurate fat content for any sausage is found on the product's nutrition label.

Understanding Sausage Fat Content

Sausages are a diverse category of processed meat products, and their fat content can vary dramatically based on the type of meat used, the cuts of meat included, and the recipe. The fat plays a crucial role in the sausage's texture, flavor, and moisture content. High-fat sausages are prized for their rich, decadent flavor, while leaner varieties are favored for health-conscious diets.

The Contenders for Highest Fat Sausage

While many people associate pork sausages with high fat, other varieties often contain more. Raw Mexican chorizo and some blood sausage recipes, for instance, typically lead the pack. Mexican chorizo is often made with a higher ratio of pork fat added to the ground pork, which contributes to its signature crumbly texture and intense flavor. Blood sausage, or black pudding, also has a remarkably high fat content due to its composition of congealed animal blood, fat, and filler.

Factors Influencing Fat Levels

Meat Selection: The cuts of meat used are the primary determinant. Less expensive sausages may use fattier cuts and trimmings to increase moisture and reduce cost. For example, fresh pork sausages often contain a higher fat percentage than lean chicken or turkey sausages.
Added Fat: Manufacturers often add extra pork fat to sausage blends to improve texture and juiciness. This is a common practice, especially for varieties like Mexican chorizo.
Processing Method: How a sausage is prepared affects its fat level. Cured and dried sausages, such as Spanish chorizo or salami, can have concentrated fat content as moisture evaporates during aging. In contrast, cooking a fresh sausage will render out some of the fat, altering the final consumed fat amount.
Brand Variations: Even within the same sausage type, fat content can vary significantly by brand. Some premium or artisan sausages may contain more fat for a richer flavor profile compared to their budget-friendly counterparts.

A Comparative Look at Sausage Fat Content

This table illustrates the general fat content per 100g serving for several popular sausage types. Note that these values can vary based on brand and preparation.


Sausage Type	Typical Fat Content (per 100g)	Notes on Composition
Raw Mexican Chorizo	30-40g	Often includes extra pork fat for flavor and texture.
Blood Sausage	~34.5g	Made with animal blood, fat, and grain fillers.
Polish Sausage (Kielbasa)	~24g	Pork-based, with fat content varying by recipe.
Pork Sausage (Fresh)	15-25g+	Highly variable depending on meat cuts and brand.
Beef Sausage	~18.7g	Typically leaner than pork, but can still be high in fat.
Lamb Sausage	~12-19g	Fat content varies based on the cuts of lamb used.
Chicken/Turkey Sausage	3-10g	Generally the leanest option, made with skinless meat.

The Impact of Cooking Methods

It's important to remember that the listed fat content for raw sausages will change during cooking. Methods like grilling, baking, or pan-frying will render some of the fat out of the sausage, particularly with higher-fat varieties like chorizo. The final amount of fat consumed will be less than the raw nutritional data suggests. Conversely, lower-fat sausages will retain more of their fat and moisture during cooking.

The Verdict: The Highest Fat Sausage

Based on compositional data, raw Mexican chorizo and blood sausage are consistently identified as having the highest fat content among common varieties. For context, a 100g serving of Mexican chorizo can contain anywhere from 30 to over 40 grams of fat, significantly more than typical fresh pork or beef sausages. The exact fat content depends heavily on the specific brand and recipe, with some artisan or specialty varieties potentially having even higher levels. Consumers should always check the nutritional information on packaging for the most accurate details.

Conclusion: Navigating the World of Sausage Fat

When seeking to answer which sausage has the highest fat content, the top contenders are typically raw Mexican chorizo and some forms of blood sausage. Their high fat levels are a result of specific meat selections and recipe traditions that prioritize flavor and texture. While fresh pork sausages are also high in fat, their content can vary widely by brand. For those monitoring their fat intake, lean chicken and turkey options offer a healthier alternative. Understanding these differences empowers consumers to make informed dietary choices, whether they're looking for the richest flavor or the leanest option. For further reading, explore articles on different types of sausage around the world to learn more about the unique characteristics of each variety.

Note: The nutritional values provided are general estimates. For precise information, refer to specific product labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cooking a high-fat sausage will render some of the fat out of the meat, especially when methods like grilling or pan-frying are used. This reduces the total fat consumed compared to the uncooked nutritional information.

Yes, certain types of blood sausage can have a higher fat content than typical fresh pork sausages. Blood sausage is made with a combination of blood, fat, and fillers, which often results in a very high fat percentage.

Not all chorizo is equally high in fat. Mexican chorizo, which is a fresh, raw sausage, typically has a higher fat content due to the addition of extra pork fat. Spanish chorizo, a cured and dried variety, can also be high in fat, but the composition differs.

The primary factor is the type and cut of meat used. Less expensive sausages often contain fattier trimmings, while lean options are made from leaner cuts or leaner meats like chicken.

A typical beef sausage generally has a moderate fat content, often around 18-20g per 100g serving, which is usually lower than fresh pork sausage. However, this can vary by brand and recipe.

Yes, kangaroo sausage is known for being very lean, with a significantly lower fat content than pork, beef, or lamb varieties. It is often cited as one of the healthiest sausage options.

Fat is a crucial component for flavor in sausages, as it carries fat-soluble flavor compounds and adds richness and juiciness to the final product. The higher the fat content, the more flavorful and moist the sausage tends to be.