BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS, WHITE CHEDDAR
BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS scores 30/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **high saturated fat content**.
This BABYBEL product has a FoodScore of 30/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 18.52g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product is high in saturated fat (14.81g per 100g) and sodium (592.59mg per 100g).
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike generic dairy.
Consider this as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -3 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
18.52g
37% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.7g
7% of Daily Value
Sodium
592.59mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (18.5g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.7g)-2
Saturated fat (14.8g)-15
Sodium (592.6mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 30
BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS receives a FoodScore of 30/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product offers a notable 18.52g of protein per 100g, earning a bonus, this is offset by several nutritional drawbacks. It contains 14.81g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a substantial penalty. The sodium content of 592.59mg per 100g also contributes negatively to the score. Although the added sugar content is relatively low at 3.7g per 100g, it still incurs a small penalty. The presence of ingredients like partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil in the crackers, even if in small amounts, points to a more processed formulation compared to a generic cheese and whole-grain cracker. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be less processed and have a lower sodium content, this BABYBEL product's score reflects its more complex ingredient list and higher levels of certain less desirable nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in babybel white cheddar cheese & crackers, white cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product provides 18.52g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals, potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. The protein primarily comes from the semisoft cheese component.
Good Source of Calcium
BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS is a good source of calcium, providing 555.56mg per 100g, which is 43% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, playing a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake is important across all life stages. The cheese portion of this product is the primary contributor to its calcium content.
Convenient Snack Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy snack, this product offers portability and convenience. Its pre-portioned packaging makes it simple to grab and go, fitting into busy schedules. While not a primary source of diverse nutrients, its combination of cheese and crackers provides a mix of protein and carbohydrates, which can be useful for a rapid energy boost when other options are unavailable. This makes it a practical choice for specific situations.
BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS scores 30/100 (Poor), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high saturated fat content.
How to eat it
BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS is typically consumed as a single-serving snack, often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on the go. Its convenient format makes it a popular choice for quick hunger management. While it offers protein and calcium, its processed nature means moderation is key.
Pair with a piece of fruit like an apple or a handful of berries to add dietary fiber and vitamins.
Consider this as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to its saturated fat and sodium content.
If seeking a more nutrient-dense option, opt for plain cheese with whole-grain crackers that have a simpler ingredient list and lower sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The crackers include unbleached enriched flour, which means some nutrients are added back after processing, but it is not a whole grain. The use of vegetable oil (including soybean oil, canola oil, palm oil, and partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil) contributes to the fat content, and while trans fat is listed as 0g, the presence of partially hydrogenated oil is a point of consideration for some consumers. Allergens declared include milk, wheat, and soy, which are common food sensitivities. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the wheat flour. Those managing sodium intake should also be mindful of the 592.59mg per 100g.
Is BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS healthy?
With a FoodScore of 30/100, this product is rated 'Poor'. While it provides protein and calcium, it is an ultra-processed food and contains notable amounts of saturated fat and sodium. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS compare to other cheese snacks?
Compared to a generic block of natural white cheddar cheese, this BABYBEL product is more processed due to the crackers and their ingredients like soy lecithin and various oils. A plain cheese stick, like a Sargento string cheese, would typically have a simpler ingredient list and often lower sodium per serving, making it a less processed option.
What is 'partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil' in the crackers?
Partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil is a type of fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid at room temperature. While this product states 0g trans fat, the presence of partially hydrogenated oils can be a concern for some consumers who prefer to avoid them due to their association with trans fat formation during processing.
How much of this product can I eat daily?
Given its 'Poor' FoodScore and nutritional profile, it's recommended to consume BABYBEL WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE & CRACKERS in moderation. For most adults, one pack occasionally as a snack fits within a balanced diet, but it should not be a daily staple due to its saturated fat and sodium content.
Does this product contain whole grains?
No, the crackers in this product are made with unbleached enriched flour, which is not a whole grain. While enriched flour has some nutrients added back, it lacks the fiber and full spectrum of nutrients found in whole grains. Consumers looking for whole grain options should check for 'whole wheat flour' or similar terms in the ingredient list.