CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE, CHEDDAR CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its most significant nutritional contributions are its protein content and high levels of calcium and vitamin A, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium content.
This CABOT cheddar cheese scores 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A 100g serving provides 25g of protein, a notable strength for muscle support.
The primary nutritional concern is its 21.39g of saturated fat per 100g.
It offers 55% DV for calcium and 119% DV for vitamin A per 100g serving.
Classified as NOVA 2, it is a processed culinary ingredient, similar to many cheeses.
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 (21.4g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 55
CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE, CHEDDAR CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. On the positive side, this product is a significant source of protein, providing 25g per 100g, which contributes positively to its score. It also receives bonus points for its micronutrient profile, specifically its high calcium content (714.29mg, 55% DV) and substantial Vitamin A (119% DV) per 100g. The product is categorized as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient, which is a favorable classification 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 key factor for dietary guidelines. Additionally, the sodium content at 642.86mg per 100g incurs a minor penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, CABOT cheddar cheese offers a comparable nutritional profile, with its strengths in protein and calcium being notable.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cabot cheddar cheese, cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE is an excellent source of calcium, providing 55% of the Daily Value per 100g. 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 prevent conditions related to bone weakening. The product also contains Vitamin A, which plays a supporting role in bone development and maintenance.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 25g of protein per 100g, this CABOT 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. Incorporating sources of complete protein, such as dairy products like cheese, into meals can help with satiety and overall dietary protein goals.
Provides Essential Vitamins
This cheddar cheese delivers a significant amount of Vitamin A, offering 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. While not a primary source of all vitamins, the contribution of Vitamin A from this product can help meet daily nutritional requirements for this fat-soluble vitamin.
CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE, CHEDDAR CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent). Its most significant nutritional contributions are its protein content and high levels of calcium and vitamin A, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium content.
How to eat it
Cheddar cheese is a versatile dairy product commonly consumed in the US as a snack, an ingredient in cooked dishes, or as a topping. A typical serving size is 1 ounce (approximately 28g), which is smaller than the 100g used for nutritional calculations here. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile, it's often used in smaller quantities.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fruit to add fiber and additional micronutrients to a snack.
Use as a flavor enhancer in moderation for dishes like omelets or salads, rather than as the main component, to manage saturated fat and sodium intake.
Consider grating a small amount over vegetables to encourage consumption and add calcium, balancing the meal's overall nutritional density.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 1-ounce serving provides a good amount of calcium and protein without excessive saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind
CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE contains pasteurized milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. While the ingredient list is relatively short and free of artificial sweeteners or colors beyond annatto, the sodium content (642.86mg per 100g) and saturated fat content (21.39g per 100g) are notable. Individuals monitoring their intake of these nutrients, particularly those with hypertension or cardiovascular concerns, should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of serving sizes. The presence of enzymes and cheese cultures is standard for cheese production and generally not a concern.
CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE, with a FoodScore of 55/100, can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin A. However, its saturated fat and sodium content mean that portion control is important to align with dietary guidelines.
How does CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic cheddar cheese, CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE has a similar nutritional profile, offering comparable amounts of protein, fat, and micronutrients. When compared to a fresh cheese like ricotta or cottage cheese, it will typically have higher fat and sodium but also a more concentrated flavor and calcium content. For example, a brand like Tillamook cheddar would have a very similar nutritional breakdown.
What is annatto, and is it safe?
Annatto is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, used in CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE for color. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies like the FDA. Its purpose is purely aesthetic, giving the cheese its characteristic orange hue, and it does not contribute to the nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for cheddar cheese?
A typical serving size for cheddar cheese is 1 ounce (approximately 28 grams). This portion provides a good amount of calcium and protein without contributing excessive saturated fat or sodium to your daily intake. Consuming larger portions regularly would increase your intake of these nutrients.
Can I eat cheddar cheese if I am lactose intolerant?
Many hard cheeses, including cheddar, contain very little lactose due to the cheesemaking process, where most of the lactose is removed with the whey or converted during aging. While not entirely lactose-free, some individuals with lactose intolerance may tolerate small servings of CABOT CHEDDAR CHEESE better than other dairy products. It is best to test individual tolerance.