Summary of 8 Healthy Sausage Brands With the Highest Quality Ingredients:
*Summary:
– Traditional sausages are high in sodium and saturated fat, and contain preservatives and additives that can be harmful to health.
– When choosing a healthy sausage, look for options with less sodium and saturated fat, made with chicken or turkey, without nitrites and nitrates, and with a natural casing.
– The article provides a list of 8 sausage brands with high-quality ingredients and meets the criteria for a healthier option.
If you’re a fan of sausages, whether for breakfast or a summer BBQ, you may be interested in finding a healthier version. Traditional sausages are often high in sodium and saturated fat, which can be detrimental to heart health. Additionally, they commonly contain preservatives and additives like nitrites and nitrates, which have been associated with cancer. To reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends limiting the consumption of processed meats. Therefore, if you regularly consume sausages, it’s important to choose a more nutritious option.
Registered Dietitian Jaime Windrow provides some helpful tips on what to look for (and what to avoid) when selecting a healthier sausage. First, keep an eye on the sodium content and aim for sausages with less than 600 mg of sodium. Next, check the saturated fat content and opt for sausages with 4 grams or less of saturated fat. It’s also advisable to choose sausages made with chicken or turkey instead of beef or pork. Avoid sausages with preservatives like nitrites and nitrates by checking the ingredient list. Finally, look for sausages with a natural casing.
According to Windrow, sausages with fewer ingredients on the nutrition label are typically better choices. Additionally, portion sizes should be considered, as a full-size sausage is usually sufficient for a meal.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the best healthy sausage brands available in supermarkets:
1. Alfresco: These sausages are made from skinless chicken thigh and breast meat, making them a leaner option. With just 1.5 grams of saturated fat and 420 milligrams of sodium per sausage, they also contain zero artificial ingredients. They are fully cooked, making them convenient to heat on the BBQ or in the microwave for a protein-packed dinner.
2. Alfresco Breakfast Links: This chicken sausage comes in small breakfast links, allowing you to enjoy more than just one. It has a simple ingredient list, no artificial ingredients, and is low in sodium and saturated fat. Add it to your omelet or serve it alongside whole-grain waffles for a protein boost in the morning.
3. Applegate Organics: These chicken and apple sausages are made from fully cooked organic poultry and are relatively low in saturated fat. Although the sodium content is slightly higher at 740 milligrams, the overall nutritional profile is still great. They are a satisfying addition to salads with mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and red onion.
4. Field Roast: These vegan sausages offer a flavorful alternative to traditional sausages. The smoked apple and sage flavor is particularly popular, combining sweet and savory notes. Despite being large in size, they remain within the recommended sodium and saturated fat limits. Packed with 23 grams of plant-based protein from vital wheat gluten, they are an excellent choice for individuals following a plant-based diet.
5. Aidells: For those looking for sausages similar to those enjoyed during family cookouts, Aidells offers hardwood-smoked sausages made of 100% beef. They do not contain any nitrites, nitrates, or artificial ingredients. While the saturated fat content is higher, it’s worth considering your saturated fat intake for the rest of the day if you choose to include them in your meals.
6. Bilinski’s: These sausages have a short and simple ingredient list, including organic chicken, dried apples, maple syrup, sea salt, ginger, black pepper, and onions. They are organic, low in sodium and saturated fat, and do not contain a casing. Additionally, they come in various flavors to suit different preferences.
7. Beyond: Known for its plant-based meat alternatives, Beyond offers vegan sausages that closely resemble the real thing. While they are slightly higher in saturated fat due to the use of cocoa butter, they are not excessively high in sodium and provide a good amount of protein from peas. Incorporate them into dishes like whole-grain pasta and broccoli for a balanced meal.
8. Bilinski’s Organic Wild Mushroom with Organic Chicken: These chicken sausages are lean, with only half a gram of saturated fat per link. They also offer a burst of umami flavor from wild porcini mushrooms. Made with organic chicken, free from casing, and fully cooked, they are a convenient and healthy option for meal preparation.
It’s important to note that the product recommendations in this article are based on the expertise of the writer and/or expert(s) interviewed. They do not contain affiliate links, and the article aims to provide informative and unbiased recommendations.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a healthier sausage option, consider the brands mentioned above. By paying attention to sodium, saturated fat, type of meat, preservatives, and casing, you can make a more nutritious choice. Remember that moderation is key, and maintaining a balanced diet overall is essential for optimal health.
