Sausage & deli meats

Ham salad spread

FDC 173866tbsp (15 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 17 · -5 vs Sausage & deli meats median

Ham salad spread comes in at 17 of 100, a Low band score that ranks it 47th of 60 among sausage and deli meats, though it does deliver two respectable numbers: protein at 17% DV and vitamin E at 12% DV, both notable for a spreadable lunch meat.

It's a sandwich filling in the classic sense, mashed ham blended with mayonnaise and relish and spread cold between bread or crackers, with a tablespoon as the realistic serving since it functions more like a condiment than a plated protein. The straightforward caveat is 1,080 mg of sodium and 5.1 g of saturated fat per 100 g, both worth factoring in if it's a regular lunch staple.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around ham salad spread, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 8.7 g · 16%Carb 10.6 g · 20%Fat 15.5 g · 64%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories216 kcal11%
Total fat16 g20%
Saturated fat5.1 g25%
Cholesterol37 mg12%
Sodium1080 mg47%
Carbohydrate11 g4%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein8.7 g17%
Potassium150 mg3%
Calcium8 mg1%
Iron0.59 mg3%
Magnesium10 mg2%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E1.7 mg12%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 173866

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.

Protein17% DV
Vitamin E12% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the sausage & deli meats median

Nutrient density17 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g8.7 vs 14 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g1080 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

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

Sandwich spread, pork, beefDensity 18 vs 17Ham, chopped, cannedDensity 18 vs 17Frankfurter, meatDensity 18 vs 17

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Ham salad spread is finely ground cured ham blended with a creamy dressing into a soft, spreadable paste. In the kitchen it is mostly a sandwich and cracker filling: smeared onto white or rye bread, piped into celery sticks and cherry tomatoes, or scooped alongside crackers and pickles on a snack tray. Some cooks fold in extra chopped pickle, mustard, or a little relish to sharpen it, or thin it slightly to use as a dip. The texture is smooth and moist with tiny flecks of ham, and the flavor is salty, savory, and lightly tangy, which is why it leans on crisp, fresh partners like lettuce, sliced onion, and crunchy bread.

By the tablespoon, roughly 15 g, it is a rich spread: per 100 g it holds 216 calories, 15.5 g fat, 8.68 g protein (17% of the Daily Value), 10.6 g carbohydrate, and 12% of the DV for vitamin E. Its sodium is high at 1080 mg per 100 g, expected from cured pork, so treat it as a flavorful accent and build the rest of the plate from unsalted vegetables and bread. Keep it refrigerated in a sealed tub, use a clean spoon to avoid introducing bacteria, and finish an opened container within a few days. Spread it thin, stack plenty of fresh crunch on top, and let its saltiness carry the sandwich so you can leave the salt shaker aside.

Frequently asked questions about ham salad spread

What is ham salad spread made from?

It is finely ground cured ham mixed with a creamy dressing into a smooth, spreadable paste for sandwiches and crackers.

Is it high in sodium?

Yes, it contains 1080 mg of sodium per 100 g, so it is best used as an accent with lower-salt foods.

How long does it keep once opened?

Refrigerate it in a sealed container and use it within a few days, always scooping with a clean spoon.

View the USDA source record