Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks 7.625 Ounce Plastic Bag
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor). The primary factor driving this score is its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product scores 40/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A serving contains 857.14mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to penalties.
Compared to generic dairy, this product offers less protein and more sodium.
Consider this product as an occasional snack due to its nutritional profile.
Scores +7 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
857.14mg
37% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (857.1mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 40
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the product does receive some bonuses for its fiber content (3.6g per 100g) and protein (7.1g per 100g), these are offset by several penalties. The sodium content is notably high at 857.14mg per 100g, contributing a substantial negative impact. Additionally, the presence of 3.57g of saturated fat per 100g and its nature as a concentrated ultra-processed fat also lead to deductions. The ingredient list includes Maltodextrin, a common additive in processed snacks. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks provides less protein and significantly more sodium, aligning with its lower FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cheetos baked crunchy cheese flavored snacks 7.625 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product contributes to daily iron intake, providing 2.14mg per 100g, which is 12% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. While not a primary source, it can help supplement iron intake, particularly for individuals who may not consume enough iron-rich foods regularly. It is important to consider the overall dietary context when relying on snacks for micronutrients.
Provides Dietary Fiber
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a notable inclusion for a snack of this type. Including fiber in the diet supports regular bowel movements and can help manage blood sugar levels.
Convenient Snack Option
This product offers a convenient and ready-to-eat snack for situations where quick access to food is needed. Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to store and transport, fitting into busy lifestyles. While convenience is a practical benefit, it is important to balance such options with whole, minimally processed foods for overall nutritional adequacy. This product can serve as an occasional choice when other options are unavailable.
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor). The primary factor driving this score is its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks are typically consumed directly from the bag as a standalone snack. They are often eaten between meals or as part of a casual gathering. A common portion is around 34 pieces (28g), which is considerably less than the 100g reference for nutrient values. Due to their savory flavor profile and crunchy texture, they are often enjoyed on their own.
To manage sodium intake, consider pairing a small portion of Cheetos with unsalted vegetables like carrot sticks or cucumber slices.
Combine a small serving with a source of lean protein, such as a hard-boiled egg or a handful of unsalted nuts, to create a more balanced snack.
Be mindful of portion sizes; measuring out a single serving (28g) can help prevent overconsumption of sodium and calories.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to maintain a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk ingredients, which is a declared allergen. Individuals with milk allergies should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer that some individuals report sensitivity to, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing. Additionally, the presence of Artificial Color (Yellow 6) may be a concern for some consumers, particularly parents of young children, due to ongoing discussions about potential links to hyperactivity in sensitive individuals. The high sodium content (857.14mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension.
Is Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks healthy?
Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 40/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating. While it offers some fiber and iron, its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content contribute to its lower score. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks compare to other cheese-flavored snacks?
Compared to a product like Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers, Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks generally has a similar nutritional profile in terms of being an ultra-processed snack. Both typically contain moderate amounts of saturated fat and high sodium. Specific comparisons would require evaluating the exact nutrient data for each product, but neither is considered a nutrient-dense food.
What is Maltodextrin in Cheetos?
Maltodextrin is a common food additive derived from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in many processed foods. In Cheetos, it contributes to the texture and flavor profile, but it does not offer significant nutritional benefits and is a rapidly digested carbohydrate.
What is a reasonable portion size for Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks?
A reasonable portion size is about 34 pieces (28g), as indicated on the nutrition label. This portion provides a smaller amount of calories and sodium compared to eating a larger quantity. Adhering to this serving size helps in moderating intake of less beneficial nutrients like sodium and saturated fat.
Can Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks fit into a balanced diet?
Yes, Cheetos Baked Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and as an occasional treat. It is important to balance such snacks with a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods for most meals and snacks is key.