AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese scores 34/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese has a FoodScore of 34/100 (Poor).
It provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product contains 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a significant penalty.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, unlike generic cheese.
Consider portion control due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
Scores +1 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 34
AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese receives a FoodScore of 34 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While it offers a notable 25g of protein per 100g and contributes 55% of the Daily Value for calcium and 119% for Vitamin A, these benefits are offset by other nutritional factors. The product contains 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a substantial penalty. Additionally, its sodium content of 642.86mg per 100g also contributes negatively to the score. The presence of artificial color in the Colby cheese component further aligns with its ultra-processed classification. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this AMERICAN HERITAGE product's ultra-processed nature and concentrated fat content are key differentiators impacting its overall nutritional evaluation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in american heritage, colby and monterey jack cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This AMERICAN HERITAGE cheese provides 25g of protein per 100g serving, making it a good source of dietary protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Including protein in meals can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, which may help with appetite regulation. A typical serving size of 1 ounce (28g) would still offer a meaningful amount of protein to a meal or snack.
Rich in Calcium
AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg per 100g, which is 55% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Incorporating this cheese into your diet can help meet daily calcium requirements, supporting skeletal health over time.
Good Source of Vitamin A
This product delivers 119% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for vision, immune function, and skin health. As a fat-soluble vitamin, it is naturally present in dairy fats. Consuming this cheese can contribute significantly to your daily intake of Vitamin A, supporting various physiological processes.
AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese scores 34/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Colby and Monterey Jack cheese is commonly consumed as a snack, in sandwiches, or melted into dishes. Its mild flavor and good melting properties make it versatile. A typical portion is often one slice or a small block, around 1 ounce.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetables to add fiber and other nutrients, balancing the meal.
Use as a topping for salads or soups in controlled portions to add flavor and protein without excessive saturated fat.
When making sandwiches, combine with lean protein and plenty of vegetables to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
Consider grating a small amount over dishes instead of using large slices to help manage portion sizes and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains artificial color in the Colby cheese, which is a common additive in many processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit artificial colors in their diet. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. Consumers with specific dietary preferences or those aiming to reduce their intake of highly processed foods should be aware of this classification. As a dairy product, it contains milk and is therefore not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
Is AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese healthy?
AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese has a FoodScore of 34/100, categorized as 'Poor.' While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high saturated fat and sodium content contribute to this lower score. It's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic, less processed cheese, AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), which impacts its score. While it offers similar protein and calcium levels to many natural cheeses, its processing and the presence of artificial color differentiate it. For example, a natural cheddar cheese like Tillamook might have a higher FoodScore due to less processing.
What is 'artificial color' in the ingredient list?
The 'artificial color' listed in the ingredients for AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese is an additive used to enhance the visual appeal of the Colby portion of the cheese. These colors are synthetic and are not naturally found in cheese. Their inclusion contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a recommended portion size for this cheese?
The declared serving size for AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese is 1 ounce (28g). This portion provides a reasonable amount of protein and calcium without contributing excessive calories, saturated fat, or sodium. Sticking to this serving size can help manage overall intake.
Can this cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, or approximately 180mg per 1-ounce serving, AMERICAN HERITAGE Colby and Monterey Jack Cheese is not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals following a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly or opt for lower-sodium cheese alternatives.