Cheetos Xtra Cheezy scores 35/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content.
FoodScore: 35/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional density.
Contains 892.86mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily limits.
Classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 3.61g of fiber per 100g, a moderate amount for a snack.
A whole-food snack alternative would offer a more diverse nutrient profile.
Scores -6 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
892.86mg
39% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.4g)-4
Sodium (892.9mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 35
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy receives a FoodScore of 35 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely driven by its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The product contains 892.86mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a substantial penalty due to its high amount. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 5.36g per 100g also negatively impacts the score. While Cheetos does offer some positive contributions, such as 3.61g of fiber and 7.14g of protein per 100g, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties. The presence of ingredients like Monosodium Glutamate and artificial colors further contributes to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, which would typically be minimally processed and lower in sodium and saturated fat, Cheetos Xtra Cheezy offers a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cheetos xtra cheezy 8.75z actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy provides 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 can contribute to your daily fiber intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It's important to note that a significant portion of daily fiber should come from whole, unprocessed foods.
Contains Some Protein
This product offers 7.14g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient necessary for muscle repair and growth, and various bodily functions. While Cheetos is not a primary protein source, this amount can contribute to your overall daily protein intake, particularly for individuals who may struggle to meet their protein needs from other sources. Pairing with other protein-rich foods can enhance this benefit.
Provides Iron
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy contains 1.29mg of iron per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. While this is not a significant source of iron, it can contribute a small amount to your daily intake. It's important to obtain iron from a variety of food sources for optimal health.
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy scores 35/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy is typically consumed as a standalone snack, often in larger portions, which can quickly add up in terms of sodium and calories. It's a common choice for casual snacking or as an accompaniment to meals.
To manage sodium intake, consider portion control by pre-portioning a smaller serving into a bowl.
Pair with a source of whole food, like a piece of fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts, to add nutrients and satiety.
Use Cheetos Xtra Cheezy as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your daily snack routine to limit ultra-processed food intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a high amount of sodium, at 892.86mg per 100g, which can be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on sodium-restricted diets. The ingredient list includes Monosodium Glutamate, a flavor enhancer, and artificial color Yellow 6, which some individuals may choose to avoid. As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it typically contains ingredients that have undergone significant industrial processing. Allergens declared include milk, due to the presence of cheddar cheese and whey, so individuals with dairy allergies should avoid this product.
Cheetos Xtra Cheezy receives a FoodScore of 35/100, categorized as 'Poor.' This indicates it is not a nutritionally dense food. Its ultra-processed nature, high sodium, and saturated fat content are primary factors in this assessment. While it offers some fiber and protein, these are outweighed by less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does Cheetos Xtra Cheezy compare to other snack chips?
Compared to a generic potato chip, Cheetos Xtra Cheezy often has a similar or higher sodium content and is also an ultra-processed snack. For example, a comparable serving of Lay's Classic Potato Chips would also be high in sodium and fat. Both types of snacks are best consumed in moderation due to their nutritional profiles.
What is 'Enriched Corn Meal' in Cheetos?
Enriched Corn Meal is corn meal that has had certain nutrients added back after processing. In Cheetos, these include ferrous sulfate (iron), niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. This enrichment aims to restore some of the vitamins and minerals lost during the milling of corn.
What is a reasonable portion size for Cheetos Xtra Cheezy?
Since the nutritional information is per 100g, a reasonable portion would be significantly less than that to manage intake of sodium and calories. For occasional consumption, a small handful (around 28-30g) would be a more appropriate portion size, rather than eating directly from the large bag.
Can Cheetos Xtra Cheezy be part of a balanced diet?
Yes, Cheetos Xtra Cheezy can be included in a balanced diet, but it should be consumed infrequently and in small portions. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your diet is key to nutritional balance.