Snacks

Snacks, beef sticks, smoked

FDC 168850oz (28 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 17 · -27 vs Snacks median

Smoked beef sticks score 17 of 100 on the Nutrient Density Score, a Low band, rank 58 of 60 in Snacks, below this category's median of 44. Protein is the clear strength, an excellent 43% DV, with good iron at 19% DV, typical of a dense cured meat snack.

They are eaten on the go as a portable protein snack, with an ounce (28 g) the usual stick or two. Sodium is high at 1530 mg per 100 g, saturated fat is high at 20.8 g per 100 g, and cholesterol is notable at 133 mg per 100 g, so they work better as an occasional snack than a daily one; granola bites, mixed flavors score higher in the same category.

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

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 21.5 g · 16%Carb 5.4 g · 4%Fat 49.6 g · 81%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories550 kcal28%
Total fat50 g64%
Saturated fat21 g104%
Cholesterol133 mg44%
Sodium1530 mg67%
Carbohydrate5.4 g2%
Dietary fiber-
Sugars-
Protein22 g43%
Potassium257 mg5%
Calcium68 mg5%
Iron3.4 mg19%
Magnesium21 mg5%
Vitamin C6.8 mg8%
Vitamin A13 µg1%
Vitamin E-

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 168850

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.

Protein43% DV
Iron19% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the snacks median

Nutrient density17 vs 44 median
Protein / 100 g22 vs 8.1 median
Sodium / 100 g1530 vs 400 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

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

Snacks, Pretzels, gluten- free made with cornstarch and potato flourDensity 17 vs 17Snack, Pretzel, hard chocolate coatedDensity 17 vs 17Snacks, pork skins, barbecue-flavorDensity 25 vs 17

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Smoked beef sticks are firm, shelf-stable cured meat snacks, similar to a thin, all-beef salami, that are eaten straight from the wrapper as a portable protein snack, tucked into lunch bags, or sliced onto a snack board alongside cheese and crackers. Their dense, chewy texture and smoky, peppery flavor come from curing and smoking the beef before stuffing it into casings.

Unopened sticks store at room temperature for a long shelf life, and once opened they should be refrigerated and eaten within the timeframe on the package. A 1 oz (28 g) stick works out to 550 calories per 100 g and a substantial 21.5 g protein, 43% of the Daily Value, along with 19% for iron, making it a compact protein snack; its sodium, at 1530 mg per 100 g, means it is best balanced with water and lower-sodium foods through the rest of the day.

Frequently asked questions about snacks, beef sticks

How many calories are in a smoked beef stick?

A 1 oz (28 g) stick works out to 550 calories per 100 g.

Are beef sticks a good source of protein?

Yes, they provide 21.5 g of protein per 100 g, 43% of the Daily Value.

Are smoked beef sticks high in sodium?

Yes, they contain 1530 mg of sodium per 100 g.

View the USDA source record