If you're looking for a tasty and healthier alternative to pork sausage, the 1 sausage (85 g) Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage may be just what you need. With only 140 calories, it's a great way to indulge in your favorite sausage flavor without packing on the pounds.
In addition to being lower in calories than traditional pork sausage, this turkey sausage also has a unique macronutrient breakdown. It's higher in protein than pork sausage while being lower in fat and carbohydrates. Let's take a closer look at the nutritional information of this delicious sausage.
In this article, we'll explore the various nutrients present in the Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage and their potential health benefits. We'll also discuss some potential drawbacks and practical ways to incorporate this sausage into your meals.
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
One sausage (85 g) of the Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage contains 140 calories, which is about 7% of the daily recommended calorie intake for an average adult. It has 10 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 2 grams of carbohydrates. Compared to pork sausage, this turkey sausage has a lower fat and carbohydrate content while being higher in protein. The macronutrient breakdown of this sausage is ideal for people who are looking to increase their protein intake while still keeping their overall calorie intake in check. The high protein content can help with muscle building and repair while the lower fat and carbohydrate content can aid in weight loss. However, it's important to note that this sausage does contain some saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Fat Content
The Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage has 10 grams of fat per serving, with 3.5 grams being saturated fat. While saturated fat should be limited in the diet, some studies suggest that the saturated fat found in meat may not have the same negative effects on health as saturated fat found in other sources like processed foods. It's important to keep in mind that this sausage is still a processed meat product and should be consumed in moderation, especially for those with a history of heart disease.
Protein Content
With 10 grams of protein per serving, the Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is a great source of this essential macronutrient. Protein plays a vital role in building and repairing muscles, supporting immune function, and regulating hormones. Incorporating protein-rich foods like this turkey sausage into your diet can also help you feel fuller for longer periods of time, which can aid in weight loss and weight management.
Carbohydrate Content
The Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage has 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making it a good option for those following a low-carbohydrate diet. However, it's worth noting that these carbohydrates come from the added dextrose and corn syrup solids used in the production of this sausage. These added sugars should be limited in the diet, especially for those with diabetes or who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels.
Cholesterol Content
The Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage has 45 milligrams of cholesterol per serving. While this is relatively low compared to other meat products like beef or pork, it's still important to be mindful of your cholesterol intake. Consuming too much cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. If you're concerned about your cholesterol levels, it's best to limit your intake of high-cholesterol foods like this sausage and incorporate more heart-healthy options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Sodium Content
With 520 milligrams of sodium per serving, the Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is a relatively high-sodium food. While sodium is an essential nutrient that plays a role in regulating fluid balance and nerve function, consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues. To keep your sodium intake in check, try to limit your intake of processed and packaged foods and opt for lower-sodium options when possible. Adding flavor to your meals with herbs, spices, and other seasonings can also help reduce your reliance on sodium.
Vitamin and Mineral Content
The Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Niacin
- Zinc
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
These micronutrients play important roles in everything from energy metabolism to immune function and are essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Health Benefits of Turkey Sausage
Choosing turkey sausage over pork sausage can have several potential health benefits, such as:
- Reduced calorie and fat intake
- Increase in protein intake
- Lower risk of heart disease
- Lower risk of certain types of cancer
- Improved weight management
However, it's important to remember that processed meats like turkey sausage should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Potential Drawbacks
While turkey sausage can be a healthier alternative to pork sausage, it's still a processed meat product that comes with some potential drawbacks.
- Contains added sugars, sodium, and preservatives
- May be higher in cholesterol than other protein sources
- May contain nitrites and nitrates, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer
If you choose to incorporate turkey sausage into your diet, be sure to do so in moderation and balance it out with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other healthy foods.
Ways to Incorporate Turkey Sausage
If you're looking for some practical ways to incorporate turkey sausage into your meals, here are a few ideas:
- Add to omelets, frittatas, or scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast
- Use in place of pork sausage in recipes like chili, spaghetti sauce, or meatballs
- Slice up and serve on top of pizza or in a sandwich
- Grill or pan fry and serve with grilled vegetables or a side salad
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different recipes and flavor profiles.
Choosing turkey sausage over pork sausage can be a simple and effective way to cut calories and fat while still indulging in your favorite sausage flavors.
5 FAQs About Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage
What is the nutritional content of Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage?
This sausage contains 140 calories, 11 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving (85 g).
Is this sausage gluten-free?
Yes, Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is gluten-free and does not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.
What are the ingredients in this sausage?
The ingredients in Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage include turkey, water, salt, spices, sugar, and natural flavorings.
Is this sausage fully cooked?
Yes, Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is fully cooked and ready to eat. You can heat it up on the grill, stovetop, or in the oven if desired.
What is the shelf life of this sausage?
The shelf life of Tailgate Bratwurst Turkey Sausage is typically 2-3 weeks if stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the sausage for longer storage, up to 6 months.