CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS, CHEESE DIP WITH BREAD STICKS
CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS, CHEESE DIP WITH BREAD STICKS scores 33/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content.
CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks has a FoodScore of 33/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 53% DV of Vitamin A per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
A significant concern is the high sodium content, at 1138.1mg per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider this item as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +0 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
4.76g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1138.1mg
49% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.8g)-3
Sodium (1138.1mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 33
CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS, CHEESE DIP WITH BREAD STICKS receives a FoodScore of 33/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by several factors. The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. Another major detractor is the high sodium content, providing 1138.1mg per 100g, resulting in a -6 point penalty. The saturated fat content, at 4.76g per 100g, also contributes a -3 point penalty. While the product does contain some beneficial nutrients, such as Vitamin A (53% DV), which provides a +2 bonus, these are outweighed by the penalties. Ingredients like enriched flour and partially hydrogenated soybean oil are common in ultra-processed foods and contribute to the overall nutritional profile. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often provides higher protein and calcium with less sodium and fewer processed ingredients, this CLOVER VALLEY product offers a less favorable nutritional balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in clover valley, cheese & sticks, cheese dip with bread sticks actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks provides a notable amount of Vitamin A, contributing 53% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. While this product is not a primary source of vitamins, its contribution to Vitamin A intake can be a minor benefit within a balanced diet. The presence of annatto and apo-carotenal as coloring agents also indicates the visual appeal of the cheese component.
Convenient Snack Option
This CLOVER VALLEY product offers portability and convenience, making it a quick snack option for individuals on the go. Its pre-portioned nature can be useful for managing hunger between meals, especially when other food options are not readily available. While its nutritional density is not high, the combination of cheese dip and breadsticks provides a small amount of protein and carbohydrates, which can offer a temporary energy boost. This convenience factor is a primary reason consumers might choose such a product.
Calcium Contribution
CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks contributes 95.24mg of calcium per 100g, which is 7% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, playing a key role in maintaining bone density and strength. While this amount is not substantial enough to be considered a primary calcium source, it adds to the daily intake of this important nutrient. The cheese component, made from pasteurized milk, is the main contributor to the calcium content in this product.
CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS, CHEESE DIP WITH BREAD STICKS scores 33/100 (Poor) primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack, often packed in lunchboxes or eaten between meals. The portion size is one unit, which is designed for individual consumption. A common pitfall is viewing this as a nutritionally complete snack.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this snack with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables like apple slices or baby carrots.
Consider the single unit as a small, occasional snack rather than a substantial part of a meal.
If seeking a more nutrient-dense option, opt for whole-grain crackers with natural cheese instead of the bread sticks and cheese dip.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which is generally associated with lower nutritional quality. The ingredient list includes partially hydrogenated soybean oil, a source of trans fats, although the nutrition facts state 0g trans fat per 100g, trace amounts may still be present. Individuals with sensitivities to sodium phosphate or maltodextrin might experience digestive discomfort. The product also contains common allergens: milk (from cheese), wheat (from enriched flour), and soy (from soybean oil). The high sodium content (1138.1mg per 100g) means individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should consume this product sparingly.
Is CLOVER VALLEY, CHEESE & STICKS, CHEESE DIP WITH BREAD STICKS healthy?
With a FoodScore of 33/100 (Poor) and a NOVA class of 4 (ultra-processed), this product is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in sodium and saturated fat, and while it offers some Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile is limited. It is best viewed as an occasional snack.
How does CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks compare to other cheese and cracker snacks?
Compared to similar pre-packaged cheese and cracker snacks, CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks often has a comparable nutritional profile in terms of being ultra-processed and having similar levels of sodium and saturated fat. For example, products like Kraft Handi-Snacks often share similar ingredient lists and nutritional drawbacks. Opting for whole-grain crackers with natural cheese (like Sargento or Tillamook) would typically offer a more favorable nutritional balance with less processing.
What is 'partially hydrogenated soybean oil' and why is it in this product?
Partially hydrogenated soybean oil is a fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid and extend shelf life. Historically, it was a common source of trans fats. While the label states 0g trans fat, it's still an indicator of a highly processed ingredient. It's used here likely for texture and stability in the cheese dip.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack?
The declared serving size is 1 unit. Given its nutritional profile, consuming just one unit is advisable. Regular or multiple servings could contribute significantly to your daily intake of sodium and saturated fat, which may not align with dietary guidelines.
Can I give CLOVER VALLEY Cheese & Sticks to my child?
While children may enjoy the taste, the high sodium content (1138.1mg per 100g) and ultra-processed nature make it less ideal for frequent consumption by children. Their smaller bodies are more sensitive to high sodium intake. It's best offered as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.