The Hong Kong Consumer Council has issued a stark health warning following an extensive investigation into popular dried meat snacks, revealing that nearly all tested products contain excessive levels of sugar and sodium. In a study involving 30 samples of pork jerky, beef jerky, meat floss, and crispy pork paper collected from local supermarkets and department stores, the watchdog found that while these snacks are marketed as high-protein treats, their nutritional profile is dominated by hidden health risks. Health officials are now urging the public to exercise restraint, cautioning that these savory items should never be relied upon as a primary source of protein.
High Sugar and Sodium Concentrations Unveiled
The Council’s laboratory analysis focused on 10 varieties of pork jerky, eight types of beef jerky, eight meat floss samples, and four crispy pork paper products. The results were concerning: 100% of the samples were categorized as “high-sugar” under Center for Food Safety guidelines. Sugar content ranged from 18.3g to a staggering 47.2g per 100g.
Leading the high-sugar category was a crispy pork paper sample from S. Khonkaen. Consuming just one standard 67g pack of this product would result in a sugar intake of 31.6g—roughly equivalent to 6.3 sugar cubes. This single snack represents over 60% of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended daily limit for an average adult.
Sodium levels were equally alarming, with 95% of the samples classified as “high-sodium.” Aside from one specific meat floss designed for infants, 29 of the 30 samples exceeded the high-sodium threshold of 600mg per 100g. Koi Kei Bakery’s Crispy Pork stood out with the highest sodium content; consuming 100g of this product accounts for 95% of the WHO’s daily recommended sodium limit, leaving virtually no room for salt intake from other meals.
Protein Benefits Overshadowed by Fat and Additives
While the testing confirmed that all samples technically qualify as “high-protein” foods, the Council emphasizes that the concentration of additives and seasonings makes them an unhealthy choice for nutrient replenishment. Furthermore, two meat floss samples—specifically Mama’s Kitchen Origin Nutritious Meat Floss for Baby and Hsin Tung Yang Pork Shavings—were flagged for being high in fat, exceeding 20g of total fat per 100g.
Experts suggest that the intense processing required to create the signature flavor and texture of these snacks often negates the benefits of the lean meat used. High intake of sodium is linked to increased risks of hypertension, while excessive sugar consumption is a primary driver of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Making Healthier Selections
Despite the general warnings, 10 products managed to achieve a high overall rating of 4.5 stars when balancing safety and nutritional factors. Among the top-rated options were Kam On Tai Honey Pork Jerky, Field Trip Original All Natural Beef Jerky, and Bee Cheng Hiang Crispy Pork Floss.
The Consumer Council advises shoppers to:
- Carefully read nutritional labels, looking specifically for “hidden” sugars and sodium.
- Monitor portion sizes strictly, as these snacks are often consumed in quantities larger than the recommended serving.
- Prioritize fresh, unprocessed lean meats or plant-based proteins to meet daily nutritional requirements.
As the demand for convenient snacks grows in Hong Kong, this report serves as a critical reminder for consumers to look beyond marketing claims and consider the long-term physiological impact of processed meat delicacies.