FoodScore
0/ 100
PoordairyBARBARAS· 1 Bag

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium and saturated fat content**.

  • This product received a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor).
  • It contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive aspect.
  • A serving provides 571.43mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
  • Compared to generic dairy, this processed snack offers fewer essential nutrients.
  • Consider this product as an occasional snack due to its nutritional profile.
  • Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.1g)+3
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.4g)-4
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 42

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factors contributing to this score are its high levels of sodium and saturated fat. Per 100g, it contains 571.43mg of sodium, which incurs a significant penalty of -2 points. The saturated fat content of 5.36g per 100g also leads to a -4 point penalty. As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives an additional -5 point penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple processed ingredients like yellow corn meal and expeller pressed high oleic oil. While BARBARAS does receive a +3 bonus for its 7.14g of protein per 100g, this is not enough to offset the substantial penalties. The product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a favorable aspect. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be a whole food like milk or cheese, this snack pack offers a less favorable nutrient density due to its processing and higher levels of sodium and fat, while lacking in fiber and many micronutrients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in barbaras original cheese puffs snack pack, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Protein

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL offers 7.14g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and contributes to satiety. While not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The protein primarily comes from the aged cheddar cheese and other dairy components.

Zero Added Sugars

This product contains 0g of added sugar per 100g, which is a positive nutritional aspect. Limiting intake of added sugars is a key recommendation in dietary guidelines to help manage calorie intake and reduce the risk of certain health conditions. Choosing snacks without added sugars can be beneficial for those monitoring their sugar consumption, making this product a suitable option in that regard.

Contains Calcium

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL provides 107.14mg of calcium per 100g, which is 8% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a high-calcium food, this product contributes a modest amount of this important mineral, primarily from the dairy ingredients like aged cheddar cheese and whey.

How to eat it

BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. It's often eaten directly from the bag, making it a common choice for lunchboxes or quick breaks. Portions are pre-packaged, which can help with portion control.

Pair with a source of fiber and fresh produce, such as an apple or baby carrots, to enhance overall nutrient intake.
Consider sharing a snack pack or consuming only half to moderate sodium and fat intake.
Use these cheese puffs as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to balance your diet.
Avoid consuming multiple snack packs in one sitting to prevent excessive intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains milk as a declared allergen, which is important for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The ingredient list includes natural flavors, which can be derived from various sources and may be a concern for those with specific sensitivities, though they are generally recognized as safe. The presence of tocopherols as antioxidants helps preserve freshness but does not pose a significant health concern for most consumers. Due to its high sodium content, individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product in moderation. There are no artificial colors or artificial sweeteners listed, which may be a preference for some consumers.

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Reader questions
Is BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL healthy?
BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL received a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it contains 0g of added sugar and some protein, its high sodium and saturated fat content contribute to its lower score. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a healthy diet, which emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods.
How does BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL compare to other cheese puff brands?
Compared to other popular cheese puff brands like Cheetos Puffs, BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL may have a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and sodium. However, specific comparisons would require evaluating individual product labels. This BARBARAS product does stand out for having no added sugars, which is not always the case with all snack foods in this category.
What is 'expeller pressed high oleic oil' in the ingredient list?
Expeller pressed high oleic oil, derived from sunflower, safflower, and/or canola, is a type of oil that has been mechanically extracted without the use of chemical solvents. High oleic oils are typically rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered a healthier fat type. However, the overall fat content, including saturated fat, still needs to be considered in the context of the entire product.
How much of this snack can I eat daily?
Given its FoodScore of 42/100 and its high sodium and saturated fat levels, BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL is best consumed in moderation. A single snack pack contributes significantly to daily limits for these nutrients. For most individuals, enjoying this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack is a more balanced approach.
Does this product contain any artificial colors?
No, the ingredient list for BARBARAS ORIGINAL CHEESE PUFFS SNACK PACK, ORIGINAL indicates that it uses annatto extract and paprika extracts for color. These are natural coloring agents derived from plants, rather than artificial food dyes. This aligns with a preference many consumers have for products free from artificial additives.

Explore more

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Data & references