What You Need to Know About Sausages

Article revised on 17 July 2017

It’s true that sausages are always a popular BBQ choice during the summer months. They’re quick and easy to grill, and everyone enjoys them, kids included.

However, if you think sausages are a healthy food choice, think again! In spite of their great taste and the number of types available, sausages still are very high in fat and sodium. So if you indulge, do so in moderation!

Here are some recommendations to help you make a smart choice:

• Compare the nutritional information on the different packages.
• Always look for the indicated serving size. It may vary from one brand to another and rarely matches the actual amount eaten. You may need to do a little figuring before making your choice.
• To keep things simple and enjoy a sausage guilt-free, regardless of the type you choose, make it a once-in-a-while treat.

REMINDER: All sausages must be cooked before being served – even precooked wieners.

No additives… Really?

You can now buy sausages marked “with no additives” or “made from 100% natural ingredients.” These products still contain nitrates, a preservative that gives meat its pinkish colour and may become carcinogenic during digestion. Nitrates may be lurking in salt or celery extract, a natural source of nitrates, included in the list of ingredients. That means that these sausages may not be better for you than another type.

Addition: Here are some cooking tips from The Healthy Butcher: The key to juicy sausages is patience. Whether you’re pan-frying, grilling or poaching, make sure to cook the sausages slowly. Excessive heat will burn the outside before the insides have cooked as well lose a significant amount of the tasty juices. To grill, preheat your BBQ and then reduce to medium-heat once you’ve placed the sausages on the grill.

Source: Catherine Desforges, Nutritionist