Shop Map Research Get the app
SPAM Classic canned cooked meat

Common questions

Is SPAM Classic canned cooked meat healthy?

SPAM Classic canned cooked meat scores 40/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a below-average score in Scout's analysis. This canned meat product is heavily processed, containing sodium nitrite as a preservative, which can form potentially harmful nitrosamines.

Does SPAM Classic canned cooked meat contain seed oils?

No — Scout's ingredient analysis marks SPAM Classic canned cooked meat as seed-oil free.

How processed is SPAM Classic canned cooked meat?

SPAM Classic canned cooked meat is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does SPAM Classic canned cooked meat compare to other canned foods?

SPAM Classic canned cooked meat ranks #36 of 39 canned foods in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is ALBACORE SOLID WHITE TUNA IN WATER at 95/100.

Which ingredients drive SPAM Classic canned cooked meat's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Sugar, Sodium nitrite are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

Healthy alternatives

95
ALBACORE SOLID WHITE TUNA IN WATER
BUMBLE BEE Prime
$12.98
95
Mutti Cherry Tomatoes
Mutti
$29.79
88
365 Everyday Value Organic Sun Dried Tomatoes
Whole Foods
$8.28
88
365 Everyday Value Organic unsweetened apple sauce
Whole Foods
$3.49

See more

SPAM Classic canned cooked meat

SPAM
Seed oil free
40 Poor

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Hormel Foods Corporation
Category Canned Foods
Summary

This canned meat product is heavily processed, containing sodium nitrite as a preservative, which can form potentially harmful nitrosamines. The presence of added sugar further detracts from its nutritional profile, contributing empty calories. Despite its protein content, the high level of processing and inclusion of controversial additives limit its healthfulness.

Key ingredients 6

Sugar
Bad

Sugar adds sweetness but can contribute to excess calorie intake and other health issues when consumed in large amounts.

See more about Sugar →
Sodium nitrite
Bad

Sodium nitrite is used as a preservative and color fixative, but it has been linked to potential health concerns when consumed frequently.

See more about Sodium nitrite →
Pork with ham
Neutral

Pork with ham is a common source of protein and provides essential nutrients, but it is also processed, which can affect its nutritional quality.

See more about Pork with ham →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor and preservation, but excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure.

See more about Salt →
Water
Neutral

Water is a basic ingredient necessary for hydration and processing, with no significant health concerns.

See more about Water →
Modified potato starch
Neutral

Modified potato starch acts as a thickener and stabilizer, commonly used in processed foods without major health implications.

See more about Modified potato starch →

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
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.