Tender Belly

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Tender Belly healthy?

Tender Belly scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product is a processed food with a relatively clean ingredient list, consisting mainly of pork belly and natural spices.

How processed is Tender Belly?

Tender Belly is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Tender Belly's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Spices counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Tender Belly

The Duffy Brothers
70 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This product is a processed food with a relatively clean ingredient list, consisting mainly of pork belly and natural spices. The absence of artificial additives and seed oils is a positive aspect, contributing to a healthier profile. However, due to its processing level, the score is capped, reflecting the impact of processing on the overall healthiness.

Key ingredients 7

Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Benefits

May provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties depending on the specific spices used.

See more about Spices →
Pork belly
Neutral

Pork belly is a source of protein and fat, commonly used in processed meats. It is not inherently harmful but can be high in saturated fats. The quality depends on the sourcing, such as whether the pork is pasture-raised.

Risks

High in saturated fats, which may contribute to cardiovascular issues if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals when sourced from quality meat.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor and preservation in processed foods. While necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to health issues. The type of salt (refined vs. unrefined) can affect its nutritional profile.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

See more about Salt →
Celery powder
Neutral

Celery powder is often used as a natural preservative due to its nitrate content. It is considered a cleaner alternative to synthetic preservatives. The health impact is similar to that of nitrates found in processed meats.

Risks

May contribute to nitrate intake, which is a concern in high amounts due to potential carcinogenic effects.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and may provide some vitamins and minerals found in celery.

See more about Celery powder →
Juniper berry powder
Neutral

Juniper berry powder is used for its aromatic properties and potential health benefits. It is generally safe in small amounts used for flavoring. The health benefits are primarily anecdotal and not well-studied.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to kidney irritation or other health issues.

Benefits

Traditionally used for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cherry powder
Neutral

Cherry powder is used for flavor and potential health benefits due to its antioxidant content. It is generally considered neutral in small amounts used in food products. The processing method can affect its nutrient retention.

Benefits

May provide antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health.

See more about Cherry powder →
Juniper berry oil
Neutral

Juniper berry oil is used for its flavor and potential health benefits. It is generally safe in small amounts used for flavoring. The health benefits are primarily anecdotal and not well-studied.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to kidney irritation or other health issues.

Benefits

Traditionally used for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

See more about Juniper berry oil →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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