APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by a notable protein content and beneficial micronutrients, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
This APPLEGATE cheese scores 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A serving provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety and muscle health.
The product contains 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, a factor to consider for daily intake.
Compared to generic dairy cheese, this product is similar in its nutritional profile.
Portion control is key due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
Scores +22 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
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 55
APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese achieves a FoodScore of 55 out of 100, indicating it is a decent option within a balanced diet. The score benefits from several positive attributes. It provides a significant 25g of protein per 100g, which is a substantial contribution to daily protein needs. Furthermore, it is a good source of essential micronutrients, offering 55% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. The product is also categorized as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, which generally indicates less processing than ultra-processed foods. However, the score is moderated by its fat content, specifically 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a notable amount. The sodium content of 642.86mg per 100g also contributes to a minor penalty. The ingredient list, featuring pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, is straightforward. Compared to a generic dairy cheese, this APPLEGATE product's nutritional profile is largely consistent, reflecting the inherent characteristics of cheese as a food group.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in applegate, extra sharp aged cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This APPLEGATE cheddar cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 55% of the Daily Value per 100g. Calcium is a critical mineral for bone density and strength, playing a vital role in maintaining skeletal integrity throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone health, particularly important for growing children and older adults. Incorporating a serving of this cheese can contribute meaningfully to your daily calcium requirements.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 25g of protein per 100g, APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese is a good source of dietary protein. Protein is essential for numerous bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and hormone synthesis. Including protein-rich foods in meals can also contribute to satiety, helping to manage appetite. This makes it a useful component for those looking to increase their protein consumption.
Provides Vitamin A
This cheese delivers a high amount of Vitamin A, supplying 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. It plays a role in maintaining the integrity of epithelial tissues and supports cell growth and differentiation. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin A, like this cheese, can help ensure adequate intake of this important nutrient.
APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by a notable protein content and beneficial micronutrients, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
How to eat it
Cheddar cheese is a versatile dairy product commonly enjoyed in the US as a snack, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in cooked dishes. A typical serving size is one slice, which is less than 100g, so actual nutrient intake per serving will be lower than the per 100g values.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fruit to add fiber and additional micronutrients to your snack.
Use a single slice in sandwiches or on burgers to manage the intake of saturated fat and sodium.
Grate a small amount over salads or vegetables for flavor without significantly increasing calorie density.
Consider using it as a flavor enhancer in cooked dishes rather than a primary ingredient to control portion sizes.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. While the product is made with vegetable rennet, making it suitable for some vegetarian diets, it is still a dairy product. The sodium content of 642.86mg per 100g is notable; individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should be mindful of portion sizes. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients, which may be a consideration for some consumers.
Is APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese healthy?
APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese has a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating it is a decent food choice. It provides significant protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so portion control is important to fit it into a balanced dietary pattern.
How does APPLEGATE cheddar compare to other cheese brands?
Compared to other branded cheddar cheeses like Tillamook Sharp Cheddar, APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese has a similar nutritional profile in terms of protein, fat, and sodium content per 100g. Most aged cheddar cheeses share comparable macro and micronutrient compositions, making them nutritionally similar within the category.
What is 'vegetable rennet' in the ingredients?
Vegetable rennet is an enzyme used in cheesemaking to coagulate milk, similar to animal rennet, but derived from non-animal sources. Its inclusion means this cheese is suitable for vegetarians who avoid animal-derived rennet, aligning with a plant-based ingredient preference for some consumers.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
A typical serving size is one slice, which is less than 100g. Given the calorie density and saturated fat content, it's advisable to stick to a single slice or a small portion (e.g., 28g or 1 ounce) to manage overall intake of these nutrients within daily recommendations.
Can this cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, APPLEGATE Extra Sharp Aged Cheddar Cheese is not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should consume it in very small quantities or opt for lower-sodium cheese alternatives to help manage their daily sodium intake.