Salami is a cured sausage produced through fermentation and air-drying, which gives it a distinct flavor and texture. It is made from ground meat, often pork or beef, mixed with spices and a high concentration of salt. Understanding its nutritional profile requires looking at its caloric density and the contribution of its main components: fat, protein, and sodium.
Calorie Counts and Serving Size Variables
The caloric content of a single slice of salami is highly variable, generally falling between 40 and 60 calories. This fluctuation depends significantly on the specific type of salami (such as Genoa, hard salami, or pepperoni) and the thickness of the cut. A thin slice might contain around 41 calories, while a thicker slice can exceed 60 calories.
To standardize nutritional data, a typical serving size is 1 ounce (approximately 28 grams). This weight usually translates to three to five slices, depending on the product’s diameter and cut. A 1-ounce serving of hard or Italian salami commonly contains between 110 and 120 calories, reflecting its high calorie density.
Macronutrients and Fat Content
Fat contributes the largest portion of salami’s total caloric count. In a standard 28-gram serving, the fat content typically ranges from 7 to 10 grams, accounting for roughly 70 to 80 percent of the total calories. This includes saturated fat, which often measures between 3.5 and 4 grams per ounce.
The remaining calories are primarily supplied by protein, with a 28-gram serving providing about 6 to 7 grams. While salami is a source of protein, the high ratio of fat to protein distinguishes it from leaner meat options.
Sodium Content
The curing and preservation process requires a substantial amount of salt, making sodium the most prominent micronutrient in salami. A single 1-ounce serving of Italian or hard salami can contain well over 500 milligrams of sodium. This high level is necessary to control fermentation and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria during the long air-drying period.
This quantity of sodium represents around 22 to 23 percent of the recommended daily value for the average adult. Consuming just a few slices contributes significantly toward daily sodium intake limits. High sodium levels can be a factor in increased blood pressure for individuals sensitive to salt.