ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its notable sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing some protein and beneficial micronutrients.
This ATHENOS Feta Cheese scores 41/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 17.9g of protein per 100g, a positive contribution to daily intake.
A significant concern is the 1178.6mg of sodium per 100g.
Compared to generic feta, this product is similar in key nutrient levels.
Consider using smaller portions to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Scores +8 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
17.89g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1178.57mg
51% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (17.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (12.5g)-15
Sodium (1178.6mg)-6
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 41
ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL receives a FoodScore of 41/100, categorized as Poor. This score is primarily influenced by its high saturated fat content (12.5g per 100g), which contributes a significant penalty. The elevated sodium level (1178.6mg per 100g) also negatively impacts the score, aligning with dietary guidelines that recommend moderation for these nutrients. On the positive side, the product gains points for its protein content, providing 17.9g per 100g, and for micronutrients like Calcium (16% DV) and Vitamin A (79% DV). The inclusion of powdered cellulose to prevent caking and natamycin as a mold inhibitor contributes to its NOVA class 3 (processed) classification, incurring a minor penalty. When compared to a generic feta cheese baseline, this ATHENOS product exhibits a similar nutritional breakdown, particularly concerning its fat and sodium levels, which are characteristic of traditional feta cheese.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in athenos traditional feta cheese, traditional actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
ATHENOS Feta Cheese provides a notable 17.89g of protein per 100g, making it a good source of dietary protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Including protein-rich foods like feta can contribute to satiety and help manage appetite, which can be beneficial for weight management. This product can be a useful component in meals to increase protein intake, especially for those looking to diversify their protein sources beyond meat.
Contributes Calcium for Bone Health
This feta cheese offers 213.93mg of calcium per 100g, which is 16% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. While not the highest source, regular consumption of dairy products like ATHENOS feta can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, supporting long-term bone health, particularly when combined with other calcium-rich foods.
Provides Vitamin A
ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL delivers 79% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Dairy products, especially those made from whole or part-skim milk, are often good sources of Vitamin A. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A can support overall well-being and contribute to a balanced diet.
ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its notable sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing some protein and beneficial micronutrients.
How to eat it
Feta cheese is commonly used as a topping or ingredient in salads, Mediterranean dishes, and as a flavorful addition to cooked vegetables. A typical serving size is 1/4 cup, which is smaller than the 100g reference, so portion control is key to managing sodium and fat intake.
Use ATHENOS feta as a flavorful garnish rather than a primary ingredient to control sodium and saturated fat.
Pair feta with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers to create a nutrient-dense salad.
Combine feta with whole grains such as quinoa or farro to add protein and flavor to plant-based meals.
Consider crumbling a small amount over roasted vegetables or eggs for a savory boost without excessive intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be mindful of the high sodium content (1178.57mg per 100g) in ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL. Excessive sodium consumption can contribute to elevated blood pressure in some individuals. The product also contains a notable amount of saturated fat (12.5g per 100g), which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The ingredient natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor, generally recognized as safe, but consumers with specific sensitivities to food additives may wish to review it. As a dairy product, it contains milk and is not suitable for individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance.
Is ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL healthy?
ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL has a FoodScore of 41/100, categorized as Poor. While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high sodium and saturated fat content are significant factors. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to portion sizes.
How does ATHENOS Feta compare to other feta brands?
Compared to many generic feta cheeses or brands like President Feta, ATHENOS Feta Cheese has a similar nutritional profile regarding its fat, protein, and sodium levels. Feta cheese, in general, is known for being higher in sodium and saturated fat compared to some other cheese varieties. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is powdered cellulose in feta cheese?
Powdered cellulose is an ingredient added to ATHENOS Feta Cheese to prevent caking. It is a common food additive derived from plant fibers. While generally considered safe, its presence contributes to the product's classification as a processed food (NOVA class 3).
What is a recommended portion size for ATHENOS Feta?
The declared serving size for ATHENOS Feta Cheese is 1/4 cup. This portion helps manage the intake of sodium and saturated fat. Consuming larger amounts regularly would mean a higher intake of these nutrients, which might not align with dietary recommendations for some individuals.
Can I use ATHENOS Feta if I am lactose intolerant?
No, ATHENOS TRADITIONAL FETA CHEESE, TRADITIONAL is made from pasteurized part-skim milk and contains lactose. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should avoid this product. There are lactose-free cheese alternatives available if you have this dietary restriction.