Sausage & deli meats

Luncheon meat, pork, canned

FDC 174571oz (28 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 12 · -10 vs Sausage & deli meats median

Canned pork luncheon meat scores 12 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, a Low band finish that ranks 58th of 60 in Sausage & deli meats. Its clearest strength is protein at 25% DV per serving, though fat drives most of its 334 calories per 100 g and no other nutrient reaches a notable share.

A typical serving is a 28 g slice, often pan-fried until the edges crisp or layered into a sandwich straight from the can. The processing and salt cure push it high in both sodium (1290 mg per 100 g) and saturated fat (10.8 g per 100 g), figures worth checking against the rest of the day's intake. Salami, cooked, beef, ranks higher on the density score among comparable deli meats.

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

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 12.5 g · 15%Carb 2.1 g · 3%Fat 30.3 g · 82%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories334 kcal17%
Total fat30 g39%
Saturated fat11 g54%
Cholesterol62 mg21%
Sodium1290 mg56%
Carbohydrate2.1 g1%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein13 g25%
Potassium215 mg5%
Calcium6 mg0%
Iron0.72 mg4%
Magnesium10 mg2%
Vitamin C1 mg1%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E0.26 mg2%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 174571

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.

Protein25% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the sausage & deli meats median

Nutrient density12 vs 22 median
Protein / 100 g13 vs 14 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g1290 vs 1030 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

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

Salami, cooked, beefDensity 12 vs 12Ham, chopped, not cannedDensity 14 vs 12Salami, cooked, beef and porkDensity 15 vs 12

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Canned pork luncheon meat is a fully cooked, precooked block of ground pork, salt and seasoning packed in its own gelatin and ready to eat straight from the can or, more often, pan-fried in slices until the edges caramelize and crisp. It's a pantry staple in many cuisines, sliced onto rice with a fried egg, folded into a sandwich with cheese, or diced into fried rice and noodle dishes for a quick source of savory, salty flavor. The texture is dense and slightly springy, firming up further once pan-seared, and it can also be cubed and added to stir-fries or baked into a casserole where it holds its shape well.

Per 100 g it has 334 calories, with 12.5 g of protein supplying about 25% of the daily value, a solid protein contribution for a shelf-stable canned product; a typical ounce serving (28 g) fits neatly onto a plate of rice or eggs. Sodium is high at 1290 mg per 100 g, so it works best paired with unsalted rice, vegetables or eggs rather than other salty sides, and there's rarely a need to add extra salt during cooking. Unopened cans keep for years in a cool pantry; once opened, transfer any leftover meat to a sealed container in the refrigerator and use it within a few days.

Frequently asked questions about luncheon meat, pork

How many calories are in canned pork luncheon meat?

It has 334 calories per 100 g, with 12.5 g of protein per 100 g.

Is canned luncheon meat high in sodium?

Yes, it runs to 1290 mg of sodium per 100 g, so pairing it with unsalted sides helps balance a meal.

How is canned luncheon meat typically cooked?

It's most often sliced and pan-fried until the edges brown and crisp, then served with rice or eggs.

View the USDA source record