Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks 8.5 Ounce Plastic Bag
Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor). The primary factors driving this score are its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
This product scores 35/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, indicating a low nutritional density.
A 100g serving contains 1071.43mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Cheetos Puffs are classified as NOVA 4, meaning they are an ultra-processed food.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product has substantially higher fat and sodium.
Consider this product as an occasional snack due to its nutritional profile.
Scores +2 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1071.43mg
47% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.4g)-4
Sodium (1071.4mg)-5
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 35
Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, primarily due to its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The product's high sodium content, at 1071.43mg per 100g, also negatively impacts its score. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 5.36g per 100g contributes to penalties. While the product does offer some positive contributions, such as 3.61g of fiber and notable amounts of iron (14% DV) and Vitamin A (40% DV), these are outweighed by the less favorable aspects. The ingredient list includes enriched corn meal and vegetable oil (corn, canola and/or sunflower oil) as primary components, along with various flavor enhancers and artificial colors. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, Cheetos Puffs offer a different nutritional profile, lacking these key dairy nutrients and containing higher levels of fat and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cheetos puffs flamin' hot cheese flavored snacks 8.5 ounce plastic bag actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
Cheetos Puffs provide 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various cellular functions. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It's important to balance this with other nutrient considerations.
Contains Vitamin A
This product offers 40% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin vital for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The presence of Vitamin A in Cheetos Puffs can contribute to overall vitamin intake, though it's typically found in higher concentrations in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Consumers should consider the overall nutritional context.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, Cheetos Puffs contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote satiety. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a notable inclusion for a snack product. Incorporating fiber from various sources, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, is recommended for optimal health.
Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot Cheese Flavored Snacks received a FoodScore of 35/100 (Poor). The primary factors driving this score are its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
How to eat it
Cheetos Puffs are typically consumed as a standalone snack, often in larger portions than a single serving size. They are a common choice for casual snacking or as an accompaniment to meals. Due to their flavor intensity and light texture, it's easy to overconsume them.
To manage intake, portion out a small amount of Cheetos Puffs into a bowl instead of eating directly from the bag.
Pair with a source of protein or healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to enhance satiety and balance the snack.
Consider Cheetos Puffs as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet due to their ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Cheetos Puffs, with 1071.43mg per 100g, which can contribute significantly to daily sodium limits. The product also contains artificial colors such as Red 40 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Yellow 6, and Yellow 5, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. Monosodium glutamate is listed as a flavor enhancer, which can be a concern for those sensitive to it. The presence of milk in the cheddar cheese ingredient indicates an allergen for individuals with dairy sensitivities or allergies. As an ultra-processed food, it is designed to be highly palatable, which can lead to overconsumption.
Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot received a FoodScore of 35/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating. While it provides some iron and Vitamin A, its high sodium content, saturated fat, and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does Cheetos Puffs compare to other snack chips?
Compared to many other snack chips, Cheetos Puffs share a similar profile of being high in calories, fat, and sodium. For instance, a comparable serving of Lay's Classic Potato Chips also presents high sodium and fat, though specific micronutrient profiles may differ. Both are generally considered ultra-processed snacks.
What is 'enriched corn meal' in Cheetos Puffs?
Enriched corn meal is corn meal that has had specific B vitamins (niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid) and iron (ferrous sulfate) added back after processing. This enrichment helps to restore nutrients lost during milling and can contribute to the product's micronutrient profile.
What is a reasonable portion size for Cheetos Puffs?
Since the provided data is per 100g, and a typical serving size is often smaller, it's important to check the package for the manufacturer's recommended serving. For a product with a FoodScore of 35, moderation is key. A small, occasional portion is more aligned with dietary guidelines than consuming large quantities.
Can I eat Cheetos Puffs if I'm trying to reduce my sodium intake?
Due to its high sodium content of 1071.43mg per 100g, Cheetos Puffs Flamin' Hot is not a suitable choice if you are actively trying to reduce your sodium intake. Consuming even a small portion would contribute significantly to your daily sodium limit. Look for snacks explicitly labeled as 'low sodium' instead.