Sausage & deli meats

Bologna, beef, low fat

FDC 168101slice (28 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 21 · -1 vs Sausage & deli meats median

Low-fat beef bologna scores 21 of 100, a Low band result ranking 36 of 60 in Sausage & deli meats and roughly matching the category median of 22, with protein its standout figure at 24% DV even after the fat has been trimmed back.

It is a sandwich staple, sliced thin for lunch sandwiches or rolled up as a quick snack. A single 28-gram slice is the usual portion, and despite the low-fat labeling it is still high in sodium at 821 mg per 100 g and high in saturated fat at 5.5 g per 100 g, so the fat reduction does not carry over to sodium.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around bologna, beef, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 11.8 g · 23%Carb 5.2 g · 10%Fat 14.8 g · 66%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories204 kcal10%
Total fat15 g19%
Saturated fat5.5 g27%
Cholesterol44 mg15%
Sodium821 mg36%
Carbohydrate5.2 g2%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein12 g24%
Potassium147 mg3%
Calcium9 mg1%
Iron1 mg6%
Magnesium12 mg3%
Vitamin C1 mg1%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E0.19 mg1%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 168101

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein24% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the sausage & deli meats median

Nutrient density21 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g12 vs 14 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g821 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Frankfurter, low sodiumDensity 21 vs 21Bacon and beef sticksDensity 21 vs 21Kielbasa, fully cooked, grilledDensity 22 vs 21

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Low fat beef bologna is a smooth, finely emulsified deli meat sliced thin for sandwiches, the classic school-lunch staple layered with cheese and mustard between two slices of bread, or diced and fried until the edges crisp for a quick pan-fried bologna sandwich. Its texture is soft and uniform with no visible chunks of meat, and its mild, slightly smoky flavor pairs well with sharp mustard, pickles, or a slice of American cheese to balance the mildness. It can also be cubed into a simple pasta salad or fried as a crispy topping for eggs.

Keep it refrigerated in its original packaging or a sealed container and use within the window on the label once opened, checking for any off odor or sliminess before eating, as with any deli meat. A slice (28 g) has 204 calories, and per 100 g it delivers 11.8 g protein, 24 percent of the Daily Value, a reasonable protein contribution for a low fat cold cut. Sodium runs higher at 821 mg per 100 g, typical of cured deli meats, so it is best balanced with lower-sodium sides in a packed lunch or sandwich.

Frequently asked questions about bologna, beef

How many calories are in low fat beef bologna?

One slice (28 g) has 204 calories.

Is low fat beef bologna a good source of protein?

Per 100 g it provides 11.8 g protein, 24 percent of the Daily Value, a solid contribution for a low fat deli meat.

How do you store low fat beef bologna?

Keep it refrigerated in its original packaging or a sealed container and use it within the timeframe on the label once opened.

View the USDA source record