CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its notable saturated fat and sodium content, despite providing beneficial protein and micronutrients.
This CRACKER BARREL cheese has a FoodScore of 41/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It is a good source of calcium (55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV) per 100g serving.
A primary concern is the high saturated fat content at 16.11g per 100g.
With 678.57mg of sodium per 100g, it contributes significantly to daily sodium intake.
This product is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food.
Scores +8 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
678.57mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (16.1g)-15
Sodium (678.6mg)-3
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 41
CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 41/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a balance of nutritional benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its protein content (21.39g per 100g) and its contribution of key micronutrients, specifically calcium (714.29mg, 55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV). However, these benefits are significantly offset by penalties. The primary deductions are due to the high saturated fat content (16.11g per 100g), which is a substantial amount, and its sodium level (678.57mg per 100g). Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 food, it incurs a penalty for being processed. The ingredient list, featuring 'CULTURED PASTEURIZED ORGANIC MILK' and 'ORGANIC JALAPENO PEPPERS', indicates a product made from recognizable components, but the overall nutrient profile, particularly regarding fat and sodium, positions it below the generic dairy equivalent in terms of FoodScore.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker barrel, organic pepper jack cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This CRACKER BARREL cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can contribute to bone density and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially when combined with adequate Vitamin D intake. Incorporating this cheese into a balanced diet can help meet daily calcium requirements.
Provides Essential Vitamin A
CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE delivers a significant amount of Vitamin A, with 119% DV per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. It plays a role in the health of various organs, including the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Including this cheese can contribute to your daily intake of this fat-soluble vitamin.
Source of Protein
With 21.39g of protein per 100g, this cheese contributes to your daily protein needs. Protein is an essential macronutrient required for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune health. Including protein-rich foods in meals can help promote satiety and support muscle maintenance. This makes the cheese a useful component for adding protein to snacks or meals.
CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its notable saturated fat and sodium content, despite providing beneficial protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
Pepper jack cheese is commonly enjoyed as a snack, melted in sandwiches, or incorporated into various cooked dishes. A typical serving size is 1 ounce, which is about a slice or a small cube. Its spicy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient for adding a kick to meals.
Pair with fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumber slices to add fiber and reduce the overall sodium impact of your snack.
Use as a flavor enhancer in moderation; consider grating a small amount over salads or chili instead of consuming larger slices.
Combine with whole-grain crackers or bread to add complex carbohydrates and fiber, making for a more balanced snack or light meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes, as the saturated fat and sodium can accumulate quickly with larger servings.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this product. While the 'ORGANIC JALAPENO PEPPERS' provide flavor, they do not introduce significant allergen concerns beyond potential spice sensitivity. The primary nutritional cautions revolve around the sodium and saturated fat content. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or cholesterol levels should consume this cheese in moderation and be aware of its contribution to their daily intake of these nutrients. There are no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives of concern in the ingredient list.
Is CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE healthy?
CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE has a FoodScore of 41/100 (Poor). While it offers beneficial protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Its classification as a NOVA class 3 processed food also contributes to its lower score. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, especially considering its nutrient density for calcium and Vitamin A.
How does CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic block of cheddar cheese, CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE has a similar nutritional profile in terms of saturated fat and sodium. Some other cheese varieties, such as low-fat cottage cheese or ricotta, may offer lower saturated fat and sodium content while still providing protein and calcium. For example, a brand like Sargento offers various cheese options, and their reduced-fat varieties would generally score higher due to lower saturated fat.
What does 'ORGANIC JALAPENO PEPPERS' mean in the ingredient list?
The 'ORGANIC JALAPENO PEPPERS' in the ingredient list indicate that the peppers used are grown and processed according to organic standards. This means they are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The peppers contribute to the flavor profile of the cheese, providing its characteristic 'pepper jack' spice.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
A reasonable portion size for CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE is typically 1 ounce (28g), which is a common serving size for cheese. This amount helps manage the intake of saturated fat and sodium. For context, 1 ounce of this cheese would provide approximately 110 calories, 9g total fat (4.5g saturated), and 190mg sodium.
Can this cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
Due to its sodium content of 678.57mg per 100g, CRACKER BARREL ORGANIC PEPPER JACK CHEESE is not ideal for a low-sodium diet. Even a typical 1-ounce serving contains a notable amount of sodium. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should seek out specific low-sodium cheese alternatives or consume this product very sparingly and account for its contribution to their daily sodium limit.