CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE, YELLOW AMERICAN
CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 24/100 (Avoid) due to high sodium and saturated fat.
Contains 1428.57mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to daily limits.
Provides 21.39g of protein per 100g, a notable positive nutrient.
This product is an ultra-processed (NOVA 4) food, unlike generic natural cheese.
Use in small portions to manage intake of saturated fat and sodium.
Scores -9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
21.39g
43% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1428.57mg
62% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (1428.6mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 24
CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE scores 24 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is heavily influenced by several factors. While it offers a positive contribution of 21.39g of protein per 100g, earning a bonus, this is outweighed by significant penalties. The product contains 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a substantial amount and incurs a penalty of 15 points. Furthermore, its high sodium content of 1428.57mg per 100g leads to an 8-point penalty, making it a food to consume sparingly for those monitoring sodium intake. The presence of sodium phosphate as an ingredient, a common emulsifier in processed cheeses, contributes to the overall sodium load. As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it receives an additional 10-point penalty. The product also incurs a 3-point penalty for being a concentrated source of ultra-processed fat. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like natural cheddar cheese, which typically has less sodium and is not ultra-processed, CLEARFIELD presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in clearfield yellow american pasteurized process american cheese, yellow american actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This CLEARFIELD product provides 21.39g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is an essential macronutrient important for muscle repair and growth, as well as for producing enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals can also help with satiety, potentially aiding in appetite management throughout the day. While this product is processed, its protein content is a notable nutritional aspect.
Convenient and Versatile Ingredient
Processed American cheese offers convenience and specific functional properties that make it useful in certain culinary applications. Its ability to melt smoothly and consistently makes it a popular choice for dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, or cheeseburgers. For individuals seeking a quick and easy way to add a cheesy flavor and texture to meals, this product can be a practical ingredient when used in moderation.
Calcium Contribution
Despite the lack of a specific calcium percentage on the label, cheese products generally contribute to calcium intake. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. While this product's label does not specify calcium content, dairy-based cheeses are typically a source. Consumers can consider this product as a minor contributor to their calcium intake, especially when paired with other calcium-rich foods.
CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 24/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE is commonly used in sandwiches, on burgers, or melted into sauces. Its smooth melting properties make it popular for hot dishes. A typical serving size is one slice (around 1 ounce), which should be considered when managing intake due to its sodium and saturated fat content.
Pair with whole-grain bread and fresh vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients, balancing the meal.
Use half a slice instead of a full one in sandwiches to reduce saturated fat and sodium intake.
Combine with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or turkey to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Consider using it as an occasional ingredient rather than a daily staple to moderate overall intake of processed foods.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be mindful of the high sodium content (1428.57mg per 100g) and saturated fat (17.89g per 100g) in CLEARFIELD YELLOW AMERICAN PASTEURIZED PROCESS AMERICAN CHEESE. Individuals managing blood pressure or cardiovascular health should consume this product in very small portions or less frequently. The ingredient list includes sodium phosphate, which is a common food additive used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in processed cheeses. While generally recognized as safe, excessive intake of phosphates from processed foods has been a topic of nutritional discussion. This product contains milk, which is a common allergen.
Is CLEARFIELD Yellow American Processed Cheese healthy?
CLEARFIELD Yellow American Processed Cheese has a FoodScore of 24/100, indicating it is not a top choice for regular consumption. Its high sodium and saturated fat content are significant factors in this score. While it provides protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food suggests it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does CLEARFIELD Yellow American Processed Cheese compare to natural cheddar cheese?
Compared to natural cheddar cheese, CLEARFIELD Yellow American Processed Cheese is generally higher in sodium and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4). Natural cheddar cheese, like that from brands such as Tillamook or Cabot, typically has fewer additives and a simpler ingredient list, often making it a more nutritionally favorable option when considering overall dietary quality.
What is the role of sodium phosphate in this cheese?
Sodium phosphate is an emulsifier used in processed cheeses like CLEARFIELD Yellow American. It helps to create the smooth, uniform texture and excellent melting properties characteristic of American cheese. It also contributes to the overall sodium content of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
A typical serving size is 1 ounce (approximately one slice). Given its high sodium and saturated fat content, it's advisable to stick to this portion size or even use half a slice to manage your intake. Regular consumption of larger portions could contribute significantly to daily limits for these nutrients.
Can this cheese be part of a weight management diet?
Due to its calorie density (357.14 calories per 100g) and high fat content, CLEARFIELD Yellow American Processed Cheese should be consumed in very small, controlled portions if you are managing your weight. Focusing on whole, less processed foods is generally more effective for weight management.