CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS, CHEDDAR CHEESE scores 55/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and micronutrient content, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
This CRACKER BARREL product scores 55/100, placing it in the Decent category.
A significant strength is its 23.81g of protein per 100g serving.
The primary concern is the 21.38g of saturated fat per 100g.
It offers a similar nutritional profile to generic cheddar cheese, with comparable fat and protein.
Portion control is key, as a single stick provides a moderate amount of calories and fat.
Scores +22 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
23.81g
48% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
619.05mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (23.8g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Sodium (619.0mg)-2
Why it scores 55
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS, CHEDDAR CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 55/100, categorized as Decent. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. The product receives a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 23.81g per 100g, which contributes positively to satiety. It also earns points for key micronutrients, delivering 55% DV for calcium and 159% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 2 indicates it is minimally processed, primarily consisting of dairy ingredients like pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, with annatto (color) for appearance. However, the score is tempered by penalties, most notably for its saturated fat content of 21.38g per 100g, which is a significant portion of the daily recommended limit. Sodium also contributes a minor penalty at 619.05mg per 100g. Compared to a generic cheddar cheese baseline, this CRACKER BARREL product is nutritionally similar, reflecting the inherent composition of cheese.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker barrel cheese snacks, cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS are a good source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating a serving of this cheese into your diet can contribute to meeting your daily calcium needs, especially when paired with other calcium sources.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 23.81g of protein per 100g, this product offers a substantial amount of this macronutrient. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein-rich snacks like CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS can help support satiety and contribute to overall protein intake, which is important for active individuals and those looking to maintain muscle mass.
Provides Essential Vitamin A
This cheddar cheese product is an excellent source of Vitamin A, supplying 159% DV per 100g. Vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of annatto (color) in the ingredients also contributes to the characteristic yellow-orange hue associated with cheddar cheese, often linked to its beta-carotene content, a precursor to Vitamin A.
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS, CHEDDAR CHEESE scores 55/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and micronutrient content, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
How to eat it
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS are typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on the go. A common portion is one stick, which provides a satisfying bite. Be mindful of portion sizes, as cheese can be calorically dense.
Pair a cheese stick with a piece of fruit like an apple or a handful of berries to add fiber and additional vitamins to your snack.
Chop a CRACKER BARREL cheese stick and add it to a small salad for a boost of protein and calcium, enhancing the nutritional completeness of your meal.
Consider this as a protein component in a balanced snack, rather than the sole item, to help manage overall saturated fat intake.
For a quick and easy option, combine with a few whole-grain crackers to add dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. While the ingredient list is relatively short and free from artificial sweeteners or excessive stabilizers, consumers should be aware of the saturated fat content, which is significant. The sodium level, at 619.05mg per 100g, is moderate but should be considered as part of a daily intake, especially for those monitoring sodium for blood pressure management. The annatto (color) is a natural food coloring derived from the achiote tree and is generally considered safe, though some individuals may have sensitivities.
Is CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS, CHEDDAR CHEESE healthy?
CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS, CHEDDAR CHEESE scores 55/100, indicating it's a Decent choice. It provides valuable protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. However, it is also notable for its saturated fat content (21.38g per 100g) and moderate sodium. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does CRACKER BARREL compare to other cheese brands?
Compared to other branded cheddar cheese snacks like Sargento Balanced Breaks, CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS offer a similar nutritional profile in terms of protein, fat, and calcium. The specific nutrient amounts can vary slightly by brand and product type, but the core composition of cheddar cheese remains consistent across many brands.
What is annatto (color) in the ingredients?
Annatto (color) is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It's used to give cheddar cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It does not significantly impact the nutritional value of the cheese and is generally considered safe for consumption, though some individuals may have mild sensitivities.
What is a recommended portion size for these cheese snacks?
The declared serving size is 1 stick. While the nutritional information provided is per 100g, a single stick will have proportionally lower amounts of calories, fat, and sodium. Adhering to the single-stick serving size helps manage intake of saturated fat and sodium within daily dietary guidelines.
Can I eat CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS every day?
Yes, you can include CRACKER BARREL CHEESE SNACKS in your daily diet, provided it fits within your overall nutritional goals and dietary limits. Due to its saturated fat and sodium content, it's advisable to balance it with other foods that are lower in these components. Moderation and variety are key for a balanced diet.