Epic source
Energy
368 kcal · 18% DV target
A deeply seasoned, fermented pork sausage defined by its vibrant pimentón hue and firm texture, chorizo serves as a dense source of animal proteins and essential minerals.
Chorizo is classified as a processed meat, a category that major institutional reviews consistently link to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality .610
As a fermented sausage, chorizo is typically made from a mixture of lean meat and fatty tissues combined with salt, nitrites (curing agents), and spices; it achieves its characteristic firm texture and red colour through ripening and moisture reduction rather than heat treatment .12
While high in saturated fats and sodium, chorizo provides essential micronutrients found in red meat, including vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and selenium .511
Because of its high solid fat content, dietary guidelines recommend selecting chorizo and similar sausages less frequently than leaner protein sources .48
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
368 kcal · 18% DV target
21.6 g · 43% DV target
30.1 g · 39% DV target
10.7 g · 54% DV target
Not a benefit — best kept low
1.00 μg · 5% DV target
1.00 mg · 7% DV target
Seasonality has not been estimated for this ingredient yet.
Keep in original packaging or wrap in parchment paper.
As a pork product, it has a significant environmental footprint compared to plant proteins, though lower than beef.
The characteristic red color and smoky flavor of Spanish chorizo only became standard after the 16th century, when paprika was introduced to Europe from the Americas.