# Vermont Smoke And Cure RealSticks, BBQ > Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop. ## Snapshot - **Brand:** Vermont Smoke and Cure - **Retailer listed:** Foodtown - **Category:** Snacks, Chips & Dips - **Size:** 1 oz - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/vermont-smoke-and-cure-realsticks-bbq-1-oz - **Slug:** `vermont-smoke-and-cure-realsticks-bbq-1-oz` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods This is an ultra-processed meat snack: it contains industrially processed ingredients (collagen casing, added sugars and molasses powder, preservatives/ascorbic acid, starter culture) and is formulated and packaged for long shelf life and convenience. ## Review Vermont Smoke And Cure RealSticks BBQ is a single‑serve, 1‑ounce beef stick that reads like a modern take on an American meat snack. On store shelves you’ll most often spot it in the refrigerated grab‑and‑go case near other meat snacks — alongside beef jerky, summer sausages, cheese sticks, and small charcuterie packs — or in a specialty deli or snack aisle that highlights regional, smoked products. This product fits quick shopping trips for snacks, road trips, tailgates and packed lunches, and it also works as a protein hit after a workout or on game‑day grazing boards. The brand positions itself as a craft smokehouse from Vermont, leaning into artisanal regional identity and heritage while appealing to shoppers who want a premium, convenient protein snack; marketing skews toward adults seeking portability and flavor rather than families with young children. Labeling leans into health halos and simple claims — beef raised without antibiotics, no added hormones, vegetarian fed, gluten free — but there is no organic certification; nutrition highlights (calorie and protein counts) are prominent. In plain terms the product is an industrially made meat snack: seasoned ground beef formed and cured, treated with preservatives and encased in collagen. Sensory cues are smoky, savory and slightly sweet from molasses and evaporated cane sugar, with a firm, chewy texture that yields a meaty bite; packaging is a branded, individual plastic sleeve designed for pocketable, on‑the‑go rituals like pairing with beer, cheese, or slipping into a lunchbox. USDA inspection and regional provenance are used to reinforce trust and provenance in American grocery culture. ## Diet flags - Gluten-free - Dairy-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 1 stick - **Servings per container:** 1 - **Calories:** 100 - **Total fat:** 8g (10% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 3.5g (18% DV) - **Cholesterol:** 15mg (5% DV) - **Sodium:** 370mg (16% DV) - **Total carbs:** 2g (1% DV) - **Dietary fiber:** 1g (4% DV) - **Total sugars:** 1g - **Added sugars:** 1g (2% DV) - **Protein:** 3g ## Ingredients Beef, Spices, Molasses Powder, Sea Salt, Evaporated Cane Sugar, Onion, Celery Juice Powder, Ascorbic Acid, Garlic, Lactic Acid Starter Culture (Not from Milk). Encased in Collagen Casing. ## Context tags - **Occasions:** road-trip, game-day-prep, back-to-school, post-workout - **Vibes:** convenient, practical, nostalgic, indulgent ## FAQ ### Is the BBQ RealStick healthy? Well, that depends on your definition of healthy! The BBQ RealStick has 100 calories and 3 grams of protein per stick, which can be a tasty, savory snack option. However, it's not exactly a health food superstar, as it does contain added sugars and sodium. Think of it as a fun treat to enjoy in moderation rather than a mainstay of your balanced diet. ### Is the BBQ RealStick vegan? Nope, the BBQ RealStick is not vegan. It's made from beef, so if you're following a plant-based diet, this snack won't fit the bill. But hey, there's a whole world of delicious vegan snacks out there if you want to explore! ### Is the BBQ RealStick gluten-free? Yes, great news for gluten-sensitive folks! The BBQ RealStick is gluten-free, making it a safe snack for those avoiding gluten. So go ahead and enjoy it without worrying about hidden gluten ingredients. ### Does the BBQ RealStick contain seed oils? Nope, no seed oils here! The ingredients list is refreshingly simple, with no sneaky oils added. That means you can enjoy this meaty snack without any worries about processed oils. ### Does the BBQ RealStick contain artificial sweeteners? Not at all! The BBQ RealStick is free from artificial sweeteners, which is a plus for those who prefer to stick to more natural ingredients. Instead, it gets a touch of sweetness from molasses and evaporated cane sugar. ### Is the BBQ RealStick high in sugar? Not really! With just 1 gram of added sugars per stick, the BBQ RealStick is low in sugar compared to many other snacks. It's a nice option if you're watching your sugar intake but still want something flavorful. ### What are healthier alternatives to the BBQ RealStick? If you're looking for healthier alternatives, consider snacking on some veggies with hummus or a handful of nuts. There are also plant-based jerky options available that can satisfy that savory craving without the beef. Just remember, it’s all about balance! ### Can kids eat the BBQ RealStick? Absolutely! The BBQ RealStick can be a fun snack for kids, especially if they enjoy beef jerky-style treats. Just keep an eye on the sodium content if they're munching on it regularly, and pair it with something fresh, like fruit or veggies, for a more balanced snack. ### Is the BBQ RealStick good for weight loss? In moderation, it can fit into a weight-loss plan! At 100 calories and 3 grams of protein, it can be a satisfying snack to help curb cravings. Just remember to balance it with other nutrient-dense foods to keep your diet varied and fulfilling. ### Is the BBQ RealStick ultra-processed? While it's not exactly a whole food, the BBQ RealStick isn't classified as ultra-processed either. It contains a relatively short ingredient list without a ton of preservatives or artificial additives, so it sits somewhere in the middle of the processed food spectrum. 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