Sausage links are a popular choice for breakfast, brunch, and beyond, but what’s actually in them? This article breaks down the sausage links nutrition info you need to know.
Keep in mind that because there are so many brands and types of sausage, the exact nutritional content can vary quite a bit.
Understanding the Nutritional Profile
Okay, so what’s actually in a sausage link? Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition info you’ll typically find (remember, these are general ranges, and specific brands will vary):
Key Nutrients
- Calories: Expect somewhere between 200-300 calories per serving.
- Fat Content: This is where things get interesting. A serving might clock in around 19g of total fat, which is about 24% of your Daily Value. Pay attention to saturated fat and trans fat, if any.
- Cholesterol and Sodium: Sausage can be high in both. You might see around 45mg of cholesterol (15% DV) and a whopping 680mg of sodium (30% DV) per serving. Something to keep in mind if you’re watching your levels.
Macronutrients
- Protein: The good news? Sausage does pack some protein. A serving could have around 8g.
- Carbohydrates: Usually pretty low. Expect around 2g of total carbs.
- Fiber and Sugar: Usually minimal. Don’t expect a fiber boost from your sausage!
Brand-Specific Nutritional Information
Nutritional information can vary depending on the brand and the specific type of sausage you choose. Always check the label for the most accurate information.
Bob Evans Original Pork Sausage Links
Bob Evans sausage links are made with premium pork and a blend of savory spices. One serving, which is about three links, contains:
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Protein: 13g
Other Brands
Keep in mind that other brands may have different ingredients and nutritional profiles. For example, chicken sausage will have a different nutritional makeup than pork sausage. So, be sure to check the label before you buy!
What to consider
It’s important to stick to the serving size listed on the package so you get an accurate idea of calories, fat, sodium, and other nutrients you’re consuming.
Also, how you cook your sausage links can change the nutrition profile. For instance, frying adds more fat than baking or grilling. On the stovetop, you’ll probably want to cook the links for 7 to 12 minutes. In the oven, baking usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Because of their sodium and fat content, sausage links may not be the best choice for a low-sodium or low-fat diet. If you’re watching your sodium or fat intake, look into chicken or turkey sausage, which may be lower in both.
Final Thoughts
When you’re choosing sausage links, it’s important to know what you’re eating. So, take a look at the product labels and think about what you need to eat to reach your health goals.
Sausage links can be part of a healthy diet, as long as you eat them in moderation.