Sausages on cutting board

Store-Bought Sausage Brands With The Best And Worst Ingredients

NEWS

BY KATIE MELYNN

Best: Aidells

These all natural sausages lack additives, MSG, added nitrates, and sodium phosphate. Instead, there are recognizable ingredients like garlic, sugar, and spices.
The brand’s popular Chicken & Apple Smoked Chicken Sausage has less fat than its counterparts, and the chicken used is raised without being pumped full of antibiotics.

Worst: Jimmy Dean

Many of Jimmy Dean's sausage products have added MSG, and the Regular Premium Pork Sausage has added corn syrup and sugar as well as lots of saturated fat.

Best: Applegate Naturals

This brand’s low-sodium sausages are made with just five ingredients: pork, water, cane sugar, salt, and spices. It also lacks added nitrites and MSG.

Worst: Hillshire Farm

This brand’s Summer Sausage is made of a pork and beef blend and has ingredients like citric acid, sodium nitrite, dextrose, and a mysterious natural flavor.
These ingredients aren't necessarily harmful, but they do mean a more processed sausage that’s risker for those with sensitivities. They are also high in saturated fat and sodium.

Best: Alfresco

Alfresco sausages are free from antibiotics, artificial ingredients, and additives. They are also hearty and full of nutrition, featuring around 13 grams of protein.