How Many Slices of Ham is 2 oz from Hillshire Farm?

Ham sandwiches are a staple of many people’s diets. The salty, savory flavor of sliced ham makes a perfect partner to bread, cheese, lettuce, and condiments. Brands like Hillshire Farm offer premium deli ham that’s conveniently packaged in thin, uniform slices. But for those watching their portions, one question always comes up: how many slices of ham make up a 2 oz serving?

In this comprehensive guide we’ll provide the estimates for

• Slices per 2 oz of Hillshire Farm ham
• Why weight matters more than slices
• Visual size comparisons
• Tips for enjoying ham as part of a healthy diet

So read on to learn everything you need to know about portioning this popular deli meat!

Estimating Slices in 2 oz of Hillshire Farm Ham

Hillshire Farm ham is machine sliced to around 1/4 inch thick. This consistent thickness means the slice counts for 2 oz servings fall within a reliable range.

According to both the brand and consumer feedback the typical slice count for 2 oz of Hillshire Farm sliced ham is

• 8 to 10 slices

So when pulling slices directly from a Hillshire Farm ham package, you can expect about 8-10 slices to make up 2 oz by weight. Of course, this can vary slightly based on the size and shape of the slices.

For example, irregular end pieces or folded slices may weigh more than a typical slice. But for straightforward, uniformly cut slices, 8-10 is a reasonable estimate for 2 oz of ham.

Why Weight Matters More Than Slices

While the 8-10 slice estimate provides a helpful starting point, it’s still an approximation. The accuracy of any portion size based on slice count depends on the actual weight and dimensions of the slices.

Two slices from one package may weigh more than 2 slices from another if they are cut thicker or wider. So for complete precision, weighing deli meat provides the truest portions.

Investing in a low-cost kitchen scale allows you to:

• Weigh out exact 2 oz amounts of ham
• Eliminate guessing based on slice counts
• Get perfectly consistent portions every time
• Track calories and nutrients accurately

Weighing deli meat ensures you know the true quantity you’re eating, giving you better control over your diet.

Visual Size Comparisons for 2 oz Ham

If you don’t have a scale handy, you can use visual comparisons to estimate 2 oz of ham:

• About the size of half a smartphone
• Equal to 4 stacked dice
• Slightly smaller than a hockey puck
• Same as 8 standard LEGO bricks

These common household items can help you visualize appropriate 2 oz portions of sliced ham or turkey when a scale is not available.

Tips for Enjoying Ham in a Healthy Diet

Deli meats like ham, turkey, and roast beef make convenient additions to meals and snacks. Here are some tips for enjoying them healthfully:

• Choose low-sodium varieties to limit excess salt.
• Read labels and aim for brands without nitrates or nitrites.
• Opt for ham labeled “uncured” to avoid these preservatives.
• Pair deli meats with antioxidant-rich veggies like lettuce, tomato, onion, and avocado.
• Add mustard, hummus, or avocado instead of mayo for healthier fat.
• Combine deli meat with whole grains like rye bread or wraps.
• Watch portions and don’t overstack your sandwiches.
• Enjoy ham occasionally instead of multiple times a day.

Following healthy lifestyle habits overall, along with proper deli meat portioning, allows you to incorporate these convenient proteins into your diet.

Making the Most of Leftover Deli Meat

If you don’t finish a package of deli ham in one sitting, don’t worry! There are lots of nutritious ways to use up the leftovers:

• Add chopped ham to omelets, frittatas, or breakfast burritos
• Toss ham pieces into salads, wraps, or grain bowls
• Mix into pasta salads or potato salad for extra protein
• Make ham and pea soup using leftover ham bone for flavor
• Dice ham and add it to fried rice or egg roll filling
• Stuff ham and cheese inside a baked potato
• Use it as a pizza topping along with pineapples or veggies
• Mix into hash for a protein packed breakfast

With a bit of creativity, you can transform leftover ham into all kinds of delicious, nutritious meals.

The Takeaway

So how many slices of ham make 2 oz from a Hillshire Farm package? The typical range is 8-10 slices. However, for complete accuracy, consider investing in a kitchen scale to weigh out your portions. Alternately, use the visual size comparisons provided to help guide your deli meat servings.

Enjoy your ham sandwiched between whole grain bread or wraps, paired with nutrient-rich produce, and accompanied by low-fat condiments. Balance your overall diet with a variety of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. With proper portioning and healthy preparation, ham can be part of your wholesome eating plan.