Every week, 15 percent of Americans purchase processed deli meat. That’s 45 million people. According to one survey, more than half of all Americans chow down at least once or twice a week on processed meat. In 2014, the deli meat industry totaled over $11 billion in sales.
With all that processed meat being consumed, which is the wisest health choice the sandwich lover can make? Frankly, the wisest choice is to avoid processed lunchmeats altogether. But if you have to choose, here are some of the best choice to pile on your sandwich.
Turkey Breast
Try This: Kirkland Signature Sliced Turkey Breast
60 calories, 0 fat, 460 sodium, 1g carbs, 10g protein
Not This: Land O’Frost Premium Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
Per 4 slices (50 g): 80 calories, 0.5 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 550 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 8 g protein
Smoked Ham
Try This: Hormel Natural Choice Smoked Deli Ham
Per 2 oz (56 g): 60 calories, 1.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 520 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 10 g protein
Not This: Saag’s Hickory Smoked Virginia Brand Ham with Natural Juice
Per 2 oz (56 g): 60 calories, 1.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 680 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 10 g protein
Roast Beef
Try This: Applegate Organics Roast Beef
Per 2 oz (56 g): 80 calories, 3 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 320 mg sodium, 0 g carbs, 12 g protein
Not This: Hillshire Farm Deli Select Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef
Per 2 oz (56 g): 70 calories, 3 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 550 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 11 g protein