CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS, SHARP CHEDDAR scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, despite providing some protein and essential micronutrients.
This CRACKER BARREL product receives a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 9.33g of protein and notable amounts of calcium (15% DV) and Vitamin A (111% DV).
A significant concern is the 8g of saturated fat and 640mg of sodium per 100g serving.
Categorized as NOVA class 3 (processed), it offers less nutritional density than generic dairy options.
Consider this product as an occasional snack due to its higher saturated fat and sodium levels.
Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.3g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
9.33g
19% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
640mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.3g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (8g)-10
Sodium (640mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS, SHARP CHEDDAR earns a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The score reflects a balance of some nutritional benefits and several areas of concern. On the positive side, the product receives a +5 bonus for its protein content of 9.33g per 100g, which contributes to satiety. Additionally, it gains a +6 bonus for micronutrients, specifically providing 15% DV for calcium, 11% DV for iron, and a substantial 111% DV for Vitamin A. However, these benefits are significantly offset by penalties. A major deduction of -10 points is applied due to the high saturated fat content of 8g per 100g. The sodium level, at 640mg per 100g, also incurs a -2 penalty, contributing to its lower score. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it is categorized as processed, resulting in a -5 penalty. The ingredient list, including enriched wheat flour and various gums and colors, reflects this processing. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has lower sodium and saturated fat, this CRACKER BARREL product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker barrel cheese dip & pretzel chips, sharp cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product provides 9.33g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals. While not a primary protein source, this amount can supplement daily protein intake, especially for individuals with higher protein needs.
Good Source of Vitamin A
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS, SHARP CHEDDAR is a good source of Vitamin A, offering 111% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for vision health, immune function, and skin integrity. This nutrient is fat-soluble and plays a role in cell growth and differentiation. The presence of apocarotenal and annatto as colors may contribute to the Vitamin A content, alongside the dairy components.
Provides Calcium and Iron
The product contributes 15% of the Daily Value for calcium and 11% for iron per 100g. Calcium is vital for bone health and nerve function, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, these micronutrients add to the overall nutritional contribution of the snack, supporting various physiological processes.
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS, SHARP CHEDDAR scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, despite providing some protein and essential micronutrients.
How to eat it
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS, SHARP CHEDDAR is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. It's often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on the go. Due to its portion-controlled packaging, it can be easy to consume the entire serving, which is important to consider for overall daily intake.
Pair this snack with a serving of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks or bell pepper strips to add fiber and micronutrients.
Consider sharing the package to manage saturated fat and sodium intake, especially if consuming other high-sodium foods during the day.
Use this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to help maintain a balanced dietary pattern.
If seeking a more nutrient-dense snack, consider alternatives like plain Greek yogurt with fruit or a handful of nuts.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens: milk and wheat, as listed in the ingredients. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The presence of carob bean gum as a stabilizer might be a concern for some individuals with digestive sensitivities, though it is generally well-tolerated. The sodium content of 640mg per 100g is relatively high, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should consume this product in moderation. While not excessively high in added sugar (0g), the processed nature of the pretzel chips, made with enriched wheat flour, means it offers limited whole grain benefits.
This product scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein, calcium, iron, and Vitamin A, it is high in saturated fat and sodium. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does CRACKER BARREL CHEESE DIP & PRETZEL CHIPS compare to other cheese and cracker snacks?
Compared to many generic cheese and cracker snack packs, this CRACKER BARREL product's nutritional profile is similar, often featuring comparable levels of saturated fat and sodium. Some brands like Sargento Balanced Breaks might offer slightly different nutrient balances with whole grain crackers or nuts, but overall, these types of convenience snacks tend to be higher in processed ingredients.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' in the pretzel chips?
Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had certain nutrients, such as niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, added back after processing. While it restores some nutrients, it lacks the fiber and other beneficial compounds found in whole wheat flour.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack?
The serving size is one package, which is 100g. Given the high saturated fat and sodium content, consuming the entire package contributes significantly to daily intake of these nutrients. For moderation, consider sharing the package or pairing it with lower-sodium, higher-fiber foods.
Does this product contain artificial colors?
Yes, the ingredient list includes Apocarotenal and Annatto, both of which are used as colors. While derived from natural sources, they are added to enhance the product's visual appeal.