Peppered turkey breast

Common questions

Is Peppered turkey breast healthy?

Peppered turkey breast scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This peppered turkey breast is ultra-processed, which limits its health score despite containing beneficial ingredients like turkey breast, vinegar, pepper, and paprika.

How processed is Peppered turkey breast?

Peppered turkey breast is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Peppered turkey breast's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Turkey breast, Vinegar, Pepper count in its favor; Sugar, Sodium phosphate, Natural flavor are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Peppered turkey breast

60 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 4
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This peppered turkey breast is ultra-processed, which limits its health score despite containing beneficial ingredients like turkey breast, vinegar, pepper, and paprika. The presence of sodium nitrite, a potentially carcinogenic preservative, along with sodium phosphate and added sugar, further impacts its rating negatively. While it provides a good source of protein, the processing level and inclusion of certain additives reduce its overall healthiness.

Key ingredients 12

Turkey breast
Good

Turkey breast is a lean source of high-quality protein. It provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. As a minimally processed meat, it is a healthier option compared to processed meats.

Benefits

Rich in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy choice for maintaining muscle mass and supporting weight management.

Vinegar
Good

Vinegar is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It contains acetic acid, which can aid digestion and has antimicrobial properties. It is a beneficial ingredient in moderation.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and has antimicrobial properties that can help preserve food.

See more about Vinegar →
Pepper
Good

Pepper is a spice that adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. It contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption. It is a beneficial ingredient due to its flavor and potential health benefits.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may improve nutrient absorption due to piperine content.

See more about Pepper →
Paprika
Good

Paprika is a spice rich in antioxidants and vitamins. It adds color and flavor to foods and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It is considered a beneficial ingredient due to its nutritional content.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health and flavor enhancement.

See more about Paprika →
Water
Neutral

Water is used as a processing aid and does not contribute nutritional value. It helps maintain moisture in the product. It is a neutral ingredient with no health impact.

See more about Water →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common culinary ingredient but can contribute to high sodium intake. Moderation is key to avoid potential health issues related to excessive sodium consumption.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food products.

See more about Salt →
Cultured dextrose
Neutral

Cultured dextrose is used as a natural preservative. It is derived from fermentation and helps inhibit spoilage. It is generally considered safe but does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative to extend shelf life.

See more about Cultured dextrose →
Sodium erythorbate
Neutral

Sodium erythorbate is an antioxidant used to preserve color and flavor. It is generally recognized as safe but does not provide nutritional benefits. It is a neutral ingredient in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Helps maintain color and flavor stability in processed meats.

Sugar
Bad

Sugar is added for flavor but provides no essential nutrients. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes. It is considered a negative ingredient due to its potential health impacts.

Risks

High intake can contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy but lacks essential nutrients.

See more about Sugar →
Sodium phosphate
Bad

Sodium phosphate is used as an emulsifier and preservative. It can contribute to high phosphorus intake, which may affect kidney function in sensitive individuals. It is considered a negative ingredient due to potential health concerns.

Risks

Excessive intake may lead to imbalances in phosphorus levels, affecting bone and kidney health.

Benefits

Improves texture and moisture retention in processed foods.

See more about Sodium phosphate →
Natural flavor
Bad

Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. The lack of transparency can be concerning for those with allergies or sensitivities. It is considered a negative ingredient due to potential undisclosed additives.

Risks

Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed components.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without adding calories or nutrients.

See more about Natural flavor →
Sodium nitrite
Very Bad

Sodium nitrite is used as a preservative and color fixative in processed meats. It can form nitrosamines, which are potentially carcinogenic. It is considered a very bad ingredient due to its health risks.

Risks

Linked to an increased risk of cancer due to nitrosamine formation.

Benefits

Preserves color and prevents bacterial growth in processed meats.

See more about Sodium nitrite →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Meat and Seafood