Sausage & deli meats

Frankfurter, pork

FDC 172964link (76 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 33 · +11 vs Sausage & deli meats median

The pork frankfurter scores 33 of 100, a Low band ranking it 13th of 60 sausage and deli meats, buoyed by protein at 26% DV, calcium at 21% DV, and iron at 21% DV per 100 g.

One link (76 g) off the grill or out of a pot of simmering water is the standard serving for a hot dog bun. That convenience comes with 816 mg of sodium and 8.7 g of saturated fat per 100 g, though the score still lands above the sausage and deli meat category's median of 22.

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

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 12.8 g · 19%Carb 0.3 g · 0%Fat 23.7 g · 80%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories269 kcal13%
Total fat24 g30%
Saturated fat8.7 g44%
Cholesterol66 mg22%
Sodium816 mg35%
Carbohydrate0.28 g0%
Dietary fiber0.1 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein13 g26%
Potassium264 mg6%
Calcium267 mg21%
Iron3.7 mg21%
Magnesium15 mg4%
Vitamin C2 mg2%
Vitamin A79 µg9%
Vitamin E-

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 172964

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.

Protein26% DV
Calcium21% DV
Iron21% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the sausage & deli meats median

Nutrient density33 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g13 vs 14 median
Fiber / 100 g0.1 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g816 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

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

Peppered loaf, pork, beefDensity 34 vs 33Beef, cured, pastramiDensity 34 vs 33Poultry salad sandwich spreadDensity 34 vs 33

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Pork frankfurters are the classic hot dog made from finely emulsified pork, seasoned with a blend of spices like paprika, garlic, and mustard seed, then smoked or cooked and stuffed into a casing for that characteristic snap when you bite in. They're grilled, boiled, or pan-fried and served in a bun with mustard, ketchup, relish, or onions, and they also show up sliced into beans, mac and cheese, or fried rice as a quick way to add savory flavor and protein to a dish. Their smoky, well-seasoned flavor comes largely from the curing and smoking process rather than needing much additional seasoning, and split lengthwise on the grill they crisp up nicely for a texture contrast to the soft interior.

Keep them refrigerated and use unopened packages by the date on the label, or freeze them for longer storage since cured sausages hold up well frozen. A link provides 269 calories per 100 g basis with 12.8 g of protein plus notable 21% DV calcium and 21% DV iron, making them a convenient protein option for a quick lunch or cookout. With 816 mg of sodium per 100 g, they're best balanced with low-sodium sides like a plain salad or fresh vegetables rather than more salty condiments.

Frequently asked questions about frankfurter, pork

How many calories are in a pork frankfurter?

A pork frankfurter link has about 269 calories per 100 g, with 12.8 g of protein and 23.7 g of fat.

Do pork frankfurters provide iron and calcium?

Yes, they provide about 21% of the daily value for both iron and calcium per 100 g.

How are pork frankfurters typically cooked?

They're commonly grilled, boiled, or pan-fried and served in a bun with condiments like mustard and relish.

View the USDA source record