When it comes to enjoying a delicious smoked pork shoulder, many people wonder about the calorie content of this popular meat. Smoked pork shoulder, also known as pulled pork, is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that is often enjoyed in sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish. To help you make informed choices about your diet, we will explore the calorie content of smoked pork shoulder and its nutritional value.
How Many Calories Are in Smoked Pork Shoulder?
A 100-gram portion of fresh raw pork shoulder contains approximately 186 calories. It is important to note that this portion size is a little over 3 ounces. Of these 186 calories, 60% come from fat and the remaining 40% come from protein. It is worth mentioning that pork shoulder does not contain any carbohydrates.
Fat and Cholesterol Content
Smoked pork shoulder is not considered a lean cut of pork due to its relatively high fat content. A 100-gram portion of pork shoulder contains 12 grams of total fat, which makes up 19% of the daily value recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, this portion size contains 4 grams of saturated fat, which is 22% of the daily value for saturated fat. It also contains 62 milligrams of cholesterol, which is 21% of the daily value for cholesterol.
Despite its higher fat content, smoked pork shoulder also contains healthy fats. This portion size provides more than 5 grams of monounsaturated fat and 61 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered beneficial for heart health.
Protein Content
One of the notable nutritional benefits of smoked pork shoulder is its high protein content. A 100-gram portion of raw pork shoulder contains 14 grams of protein, which makes up 35% of the daily value. This makes pork shoulder an excellent source of animal protein. The amino acid profile of pork shoulder is also high, meaning it provides all the essential amino acids necessary for the body to form complete proteins.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to its protein content, smoked pork shoulder is a significant source of various vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and BThese vitamins play a crucial role in the body's metabolism of macronutrients for energy.
A 100-gram portion of raw pork shoulder provides 0.5 milligrams of thiamin (35% of the daily value), 0.5 milligrams of vitamin B6 (24% of the daily value), 0.4 milligrams of riboflavin (21% of the daily value), 2 milligrams of niacin (21% of the daily value), and 0.9 micrograms of vitamin B12 (15% of the daily value).
Pork shoulder also contributes key minerals such as selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. A 100-gram portion of pork shoulder supplies 22 micrograms of selenium (37% of the daily value), 1 milligrams of zinc (21% of the daily value), and 190 milligrams of phosphorus (19% of the daily value). It also contains small amounts of iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Is Pork Shoulder Low in Calories?
Compared to leaner cuts of pork, such as pork tenderloin, smoked pork shoulder is higher in calories due to its fat content. However, it is important to note that the fat in pork shoulder includes healthy fats such as monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, smoked pork shoulder is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
If you are watching your calorie intake, it is recommended to enjoy smoked pork shoulder in moderation and incorporate it into a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Pairing it with healthy sides such as vegetables or whole grains can help create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Smoked pork shoulder is a flavorful and versatile meat that can be enjoyed in various dishes. While it is higher in calories compared to lean cuts of pork, it offers valuable nutrients such as protein, B vitamins, and minerals. As with any food, moderation is key, and incorporating smoked pork shoulder into a balanced diet can be a delicious and nutritious choice.
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