Scrapple, Cooked: A Low Glycemic Option with Unique Nutritional Profile

Scrapple is a traditional American food of Pennsylvania Dutch origin that combines pork scraps with cornmeal and spices, formed into a loaf and then sliced and fried before serving. Let’s explore the glycemic impact and nutritional benefits of this unique dish.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load

Scrapple has a glycemic index of 28, which places it firmly in the low glycemic index category. Foods with a GI below 55 are considered low glycemic, making scrapple a good option for those monitoring their blood sugar levels.

With a glycemic load of 4.12, cooked scrapple won’t cause dramatic spikes in blood glucose levels. The glycemic load takes into account both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates, providing a more practical measurement of a food’s impact on blood sugar.

Nutritional Breakdown per 100g Serving

• Calories: 227
• Protein: 8.57g
• Fat: 14.8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sugar: 0.21g
• Net Carbs: 14.7g

Health Considerations

Scrapple provides a moderate amount of protein (8.57g per serving) which contributes to muscle maintenance and growth. However, it’s relatively high in fat content at 14.8g per serving, which may be a consideration for those monitoring their fat intake.

The carbohydrate content is moderate at 15g per serving, with very low fiber (0.3g) and sugar (0.21g) content. The net carbs (total carbs minus fiber) come to 14.7g per 100g serving.

Who Might Benefit from Including Scrapple in Their Diet?

Due to its low glycemic index and moderate glycemic load, scrapple can be suitable for:

• People with diabetes who are carefully monitoring their carbohydrate intake and blood sugar response
• Those following a lower-carb diet who still want variety in their protein sources
• Individuals seeking traditional foods that won’t cause rapid blood sugar fluctuations

Serving Suggestions

To maintain the low glycemic benefits of scrapple:

• Pair with non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber intake
• Serve with a small portion of low GI fruits such as berries
• Consider cooking methods that don’t add additional fats, such as using a non-stick pan or air fryer

As with any food, especially those higher in fat content, moderation is key. Scrapple can be part of a balanced diet when consumed mindfully alongside plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and other nutritious foods.