North Country Smokehouse Uncured Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage

North Country Smokehouse

Flavor:

Ingredients:

Natural Pork, Uncured Bacon (Natural Pork, Water, Sea Salt, Turbinado Sugar, Cultured Celery Powder (Cultured Celery Powder, Sea Salt), Maple Syrup), Water, Cheese (Pasteurized Milk Culture, Microbial Coagulant, Salt), Jalapeno Pepper, Seasoning (Brown Sugar, Spices, Onion Powder), Sea Salt, Vinegar, Cultured Celery Powder (Celery Powder, Sea Salt).

Rating:     We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the North Country Smokehouse Uncured Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage does not meet the standards for a cleaner food choice due to several factors. The product is not organic, and the use of non-organic ingredients contributes to a lower rating. Additionally, it fails to qualify as non-GMO, further reducing its score.

The inclusion of added sugars, specifically brown sugar and turbinado sugar, detracts from the healthfulness of the sausage. These sugars contribute to the caloric content without providing nutritional benefit. Furthermore, the presence of cultured celery powder as an additive is a concern. While often used as a natural curing agent in lieu of synthetic nitrates, celery powder contains naturally occurring nitrates and nitrites, which under certain conditions can convert into potentially harmful substances.

The ingredients list reveals a mixture of natural pork and uncured bacon, which appeals to those seeking less processed meat options. Water, sea salt, and vinegar are typical ingredients found in sausage, contributing to flavor and preservation. The cheese, made from pasteurized milk with microbial coagulant, adds a dairy element to the product. Jalapeno peppers provide a spicy kick, while the seasoning includes brown sugar, spices, and onion powder for added taste.

Despite these aspects, the product’s overall composition does not align with the criteria for cleaner, healthier food options. Its score reflects the presence of added sugars and the use of celery powder, combined with the lack of organic certification and GMO-free ingredients.

Consumers seeking cleaner food products might consider alternatives that prioritize organic ingredients, omit added sugars, and avoid additives like celery powder. The North Country Smokehouse Uncured Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage, with its current ingredient profile, has room for improvement to meet the higher standards of health-conscious individuals.

Certifications:

None

Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.

Categories:

Alternatives

No Items found.

Get the dirt on clean eating

Stay in the know with the latest ratings, articles, and our newsletter, The Dirt.