CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its high protein and significant calcium content are notable, though its saturated fat and sodium levels contribute to a moderate overall score.
FoodScore: 55/100 (Decent), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Provides 25g of protein per 100g, a substantial amount for muscle support.
Contains 21.39g of saturated fat per 100g, a key factor in its score.
Classified as NOVA 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient.
A 1-ounce serving contributes 55% DV for calcium, supporting bone health.
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
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 55
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese earns a FoodScore of 55 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. The product receives significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 25g per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a dairy product. It also gains points for its micronutrient density, specifically its high levels of calcium (714.29mg, 55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV). Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 2, meaning it consists of processed culinary ingredients like fresh pasteurized milk and cheese cultures, contributes positively to its score by indicating a less complex processing level compared to ultra-processed foods. However, the score is tempered by penalties, primarily due to its saturated fat content of 21.39g per 100g, which is a notable amount. The sodium level, at 642.86mg per 100g, also incurs a minor penalty. Compared to generic dairy equivalents, CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese offers a similar nutritional profile, with its protein and calcium being strong points, while saturated fat and sodium are areas for mindful consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cabot, sharp cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg per 100g, which is 55% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods like this cheese can contribute to bone density and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating a serving into your diet can be a straightforward way to meet a significant portion of your daily calcium needs.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 25g of protein per 100g, CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese is a high-protein food. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making it a valuable nutrient for active individuals and those looking to maintain muscle mass. The protein in cheese is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for the body's functions. Including this cheese in meals can help increase overall protein intake.
Source of Vitamin A
This cheese provides 119% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g, making it a significant source of this fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting skin health. As a dairy product, the Vitamin A in CABOT cheese is in a highly bioavailable form, meaning the body can efficiently absorb and utilize it. This contributes to overall nutritional intake.
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its high protein and significant calcium content are notable, though its saturated fat and sodium levels contribute to a moderate overall score.
How to eat it
Cheddar cheese is a versatile dairy product commonly enjoyed in the US as a snack, an ingredient in cooked dishes, or as part of a meal. A typical serving size is 1 ounce, which is about a slice or a small cube. While it offers valuable nutrients, its caloric density means portion control is beneficial.
Pair with fruits or vegetables: Combine a small portion of CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese with apple slices, grapes, or celery sticks for a balanced snack that adds fiber and vitamins.
Use as a flavor enhancer: Instead of large quantities, use a smaller amount of shredded CABOT cheese to add savory flavor to salads, scrambled eggs, or vegetable dishes.
Mindful melting: When adding to hot dishes like casseroles or sandwiches, be aware that melting cheese can increase its perceived volume, potentially leading to larger portions than intended.
Consider sodium intake: If monitoring sodium, balance your intake of CABOT cheese with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, as it contributes 642.86mg per 100g.
Things to keep in mind
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese is generally well-tolerated, but individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort due to the presence of fresh pasteurized milk, although aged cheeses typically contain less lactose. The product's ingredient list is minimal, consisting of fresh pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, indicating a low level of processing. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid this product. The primary nutritional consideration for most consumers will be the saturated fat and sodium content, which should be factored into daily dietary limits, especially for those managing cardiovascular health.
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese has a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile. It is a good source of protein and calcium, but also contains notable amounts of saturated fat and sodium. Its healthfulness depends on portion size and overall dietary context.
How does CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic cheddar cheese, CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese offers a similar nutritional breakdown, with strong protein and calcium content. When compared to a fresh cheese like cottage cheese from a brand like Daisy, CABOT will have higher fat and sodium, but also a more concentrated source of calcium.
What role do 'cheese cultures' play in this product?
Cheese cultures are beneficial bacteria added to milk during cheese production. They are crucial for developing the characteristic flavor and texture of cheddar cheese. These cultures help ferment the lactose in the milk, contributing to the cheese-making process and the final product's properties.
What is a reasonable portion size for CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese?
A standard serving size for cheese is typically 1 ounce. This amount provides a good balance of its beneficial nutrients like protein and calcium, while helping to manage intake of saturated fat and sodium. For CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese, a 1-ounce serving would contribute approximately 110 calories.
Can CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
CABOT Sharp Cheddar Cheese contains 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate to high amount. While it can be included in a low-sodium diet, it should be consumed in small portions and balanced with other very low-sodium foods throughout the day to stay within recommended limits.