Frankfurter, beef, low fat
Whole food · Sausages and Luncheon Meats
A lean, emulsified beef sausage, the low-fat frankfurter offers a mild, savory flavor with a snappy, smooth texture. Its nutrition profile is defined by high protein and very low carbohydrates, making it a protein-dense option. This version provides the classic hot dog experience with significantly less fat than traditional varieties.
Calorie split: 34% protein · 5% carbs · 61% fat
↓ Full nutrition💚 Why it's loved
People love it for its nostalgic, comforting flavor and incredible versatility, from classic ballpark dogs to quick weeknight meals. Its mild taste pairs perfectly with a wide array of condiments and toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
⚠️ Watch-outs & how to enjoy it better
The primary downside is its high sodium content, which can be a concern for those monitoring salt intake. To counteract this, pair it with potassium-rich foods like fresh vegetables or choose low-sodium brands, and practice portion control. Also, check labels for common allergens like soy or gluten.
Key benefits
- High in protein for muscle maintenance
- Low in carbohydrates and sugar
- Convenient, ready-to-eat protein source
- Lower fat content than traditional frankfurters
- Quick to prepare for busy meals
🍽️ Popular dishes
🌍 Where it's eaten
💡 Did you know?
The term 'frankfurter' originates from Frankfurt, Germany, where the sausage was traditionally served at the coronation of German emperors.
Full nutrition (USDA data · scales with serving)
| Water | 63.8 g |
| Energy | 140 kcal |
| Energy | 585 kj |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 9.5 g |
| Ash | 3.1 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 1.6 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 0.00 g |
| Total Sugars | 0.85 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 8.0 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 1.1 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 11.0 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 191 mg |
| Potassium, K | 129 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 744 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 2.0 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.07 mg |
| Selenium, Se | 13.9 ug |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 1.0 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.05 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.10 mg |
| Niacin | 2.3 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.10 mg |
| Folate, total | 4.0 ug |
| Folic acid | 0.00 ug |
| Folate, food | 4.0 ug |
| Folate, DFE | 4.0 ug |
| Choline, total | 44.0 mg |
| Betaine | 4.8 mg |
| Vitamin B-12 | 1.4 ug |
| Vitamin B-12, added | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 0.00 ug |
| Retinol | 0.00 ug |
| Carotene, beta | 0.00 ug |
| Carotene, alpha | 0.00 ug |
| Cryptoxanthin, beta | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin A, IU | 0.00 iu |
| Lycopene | 0.00 ug |
| Lutein + zeaxanthin | 0.00 ug |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) | 0.18 mg |
| Vitamin E, added | 0.00 mg |
| Vitamin D (D2 + D3), International Units | 24.0 iu |
| Vitamin D (D2 + D3) | 0.60 ug |
| Vitamin K (phylloquinone) | 1.8 ug |
| Alcohol, ethyl | 0.00 g |
| Caffeine | 0.00 mg |
| Theobromine | 0.00 mg |
Fat & fatty acid profile (per 100g)
| Fatty acids, total saturated | 1.5 g |
| SFA 4:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 6:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 8:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 10:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 12:0 | 0.00 g |
| SFA 14:0 | 0.11 g |
| SFA 16:0 | 0.92 g |
| SFA 18:0 | 0.49 g |
| Fatty acids, total monounsaturated | 3.8 g |
| MUFA 16:1 | 0.39 g |
| MUFA 18:1 | 3.4 g |
| MUFA 20:1 | 0.00 g |
| MUFA 22:1 | 0.00 g |
| Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated | 0.23 g |
| PUFA 18:2 | 0.23 g |
| PUFA 18:3 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 18:4 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 20:4 | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 20:5 n-3 (EPA) | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 22:5 n-3 (DPA) | 0.00 g |
| PUFA 22:6 n-3 (DHA) | 0.00 g |
| Cholesterol | 40.0 mg |
Amino acid profile (per 100g)
Estimated from Frankfurter, meat, heated — USDA does not publish this profile for Frankfurter.
| Tryptophan | 0.10 g |
| Threonine | 0.45 g |
| Isoleucine | 0.51 g |
| Leucine | 0.86 g |
| Lysine | 0.92 g |
| Methionine | 0.28 g |
| Cystine | 0.10 g |
| Phenylalanine | 0.42 g |
| Tyrosine | 0.36 g |
| Valine | 0.53 g |
| Arginine | 0.66 g |
| Histidine | 0.32 g |
| Alanine | 0.59 g |
| Aspartic acid | 0.97 g |
| Glutamic acid | 1.6 g |
| Glycine | 0.47 g |
| Proline | 0.41 g |
| Serine | 0.39 g |
FAQ
Is a low-fat frankfurter healthier than a regular one?
It is significantly lower in fat and calories, but it is still processed meat and can be high in sodium. It's a better choice for reducing fat intake, but moderation is key.
How should I store leftover cooked frankfurters?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
Can I use this in recipes that call for ground beef?
You can chop or grind it as a substitute in some dishes like stews or casseroles, but it will impart a distinct, smoky flavor and is already cooked.
Nutrient density (calculated · NRF9.3)
Nutrient Rich Foods index: beneficial nutrients (protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals) minus saturated fat, added sugar & sodium, per 100 kcal.
NRF9.3 index — Fulgoni, Keast & Drewnowski, 2009. Computed from USDA nutrients.
Weight-loss friendliness (composite index)
Energy density 1.40 kcal/g · 34% calories from protein · 0.0 g fiber · 0.8 g sugar per 100 g.
Composite of energy density (Rolls et al., 1999), protein & fiber satiety, minus sugar. A calculated heuristic — ranks satiety-per-calorie, not a clinical measure.
Dietary load (calculated from USDA values)
Potential renal acid load. Positive = acid-forming, negative = alkaline-forming.
Sodium-to-potassium ratio: 5.77 (lower is better — aim for ≤ 1)
Sodium:potassium per WHO potassium guidance. Computed from USDA nutrients.