Meatballs are a processed meat, made with added salt and often curing, smoking or binding ingredients, which places they in NOVA group 3. It still provides protein, but processed meats are best eaten less often and the salt is worth watching. They are a source of vitamin B12, zinc and phosphorus. Work out the numbers for any portion and age below, then see the full breakdown.
For meat and fish the numbers that matter most are protein, saturated fat and salt. The tables below set each against age-appropriate guidance.
A serving (about 100g) provides about 15.0g of complete protein, supplying the amino acids the body needs for growth and repair. Because children need less than adults, that portion covers a large share of a younger child's daily protein.
Meatballs are naturally high in fat, with about 16.0g per portion, and most of it is saturated (6.0g). There is 0g of added fat, but the table shows how the saturated fat compares with the daily maximum, so it is best enjoyed in smaller amounts.
Because meatballs are salted, a portion carries about 1.2g of salt. Children have lower daily salt limits than adults, so it is worth checking against the guidance below.
Percentages are share of the daily Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). Under UK and EU rules a food is a source of a nutrient at 15% NRV per 100g and high in it at 30%.
These tables show how the nutrients compare to daily needs across different ages, using UK Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNIs). This differs from the source of and high in labels above, which use the single adult figure (NRV) set for food packaging. Children's needs are lower, so a portion goes further.
Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system, and is found almost only in animal foods. A serving (about 100g) contains 2ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Zinc supports the immune system, wound healing and normal growth. A serving (about 100g) contains 3mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Phosphorus works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. A serving (about 100g) contains 140mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Niacin (B3) helps release energy from food and keeps skin and the nervous system healthy. A serving (about 100g) contains 3mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Iron is needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body. A serving (about 100g) contains 1.8mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target. Girls aged 11 and over and women need more iron (14.8mg) because of menstrual losses.
Yes. Meatballs are a processed meat: made with added salt and often curing, smoking or binding ingredients, which places they in NOVA group 3. Health bodies advise limiting processed meat, so it is best kept as an occasional food rather than an everyday one.
Nutrition data from McCance and Widdowson and UK FoodData Central, per 100g raw edible portion; values are reference figures and can vary by variety and ripeness. Reference intakes: EU NRVs for labelling and UK RNIs (SACN) for age-based needs. For guidance only.