CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE BAR
The CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE BAR scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional strength is its protein content, while its saturated fat level is a significant factor in its score.
This CRACKER BARREL cheese bar has a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent).
It provides 23.81g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A notable concern is its 21.38g of saturated fat per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Consider portion control due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
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
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Sodium (619.0mg)-2
Why it scores 55
The CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE BAR achieves a FoodScore of 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. On the positive side, the product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 23.81g per 100g, which is a substantial amount. It also benefits from its micronutrient profile, specifically high levels of Calcium (55% DV) and Vitamin A (159% DV) per 100g. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient, contributes positively to its score, suggesting a less complex processing level than many packaged foods. However, the score is notably impacted by penalties. The most significant deduction comes from its high saturated fat content of 21.38g per 100g, which is a considerable amount. Additionally, the sodium level of 619.05mg per 100g incurs a minor penalty. When compared to generic dairy equivalents, this CRACKER BARREL product offers a comparable nutrient density for protein and fat, typical of many hard cheeses.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker barrel extra sharp white cheddar cheese bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Protein
This CRACKER BARREL cheese bar is a good source of protein, providing 23.81g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting satiety. Including protein-rich foods in meals and snacks can help manage hunger and support muscle maintenance, especially important for active individuals or those aiming to control calorie intake.
Rich in Calcium
With 714.29mg of calcium per 100g, this product delivers 55% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is a vital mineral primarily known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a crucial part in nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. Incorporating calcium-rich foods like this cheese can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, which are important across all life stages.
Excellent Source of Vitamin A
This cheese bar is an excellent source of Vitamin A, supplying 159% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin critical for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Dairy products like cheese are a common dietary source of this important micronutrient, contributing to overall health.
The CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE BAR scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional strength is its protein content, while its saturated fat level is a significant factor in its score.
How to eat it
Cheese bars like the CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR are commonly consumed as a snack, often paired with crackers or fruit, or incorporated into meals. A typical serving size is one bar, which is less than 100g, so actual nutrient intake per occasion will be lower than the per 100g values.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain crackers or apple slices to add dietary fiber and enhance satiety.
Use as a protein booster in salads or alongside a small portion of nuts for a balanced snack.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while nutritious, cheese is calorie-dense and high in saturated fat, so moderation is key.
Consider grating a small amount over cooked vegetables to add flavor and calcium without excessive intake.
Things to keep in mind
The CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE BAR contains Pasteurized Milk, which is an allergen for individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. While the ingredient list is minimal, containing only milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes, the primary nutritional caution is its high saturated fat content. Individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fats, particularly those with cardiovascular health concerns, should consume this product in moderation. The sodium content, while not extremely high, should also be considered as part of a total daily sodium intake, especially for those on sodium-restricted diets.
Is CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Bar healthy?
The CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Bar scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It provides beneficial nutrients like protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. However, it is also high in saturated fat and calories, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet rather than a primary 'healthy' food.
How does CRACKER BARREL cheese compare to other cheese brands?
Compared to many generic cheddar cheeses, CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Bar offers a similar nutritional profile in terms of protein, fat, and calcium. Brands like Tillamook or Cabot also offer cheddar cheeses with comparable macronutrient and micronutrient content. The primary differences often lie in flavor profiles and specific processing methods, rather than vastly different core nutritional values for similar cheese types.
What role do 'enzymes' play in this cheese?
The 'enzymes' listed in the ingredients are typically rennet, which is used in cheesemaking to coagulate the milk and form curds. These enzymes are crucial for the texture and flavor development of the cheese. They are generally inactivated or removed during the cheesemaking process and do not contribute nutritional value to the final product.
What is a recommended portion size for this cheese bar?
The declared serving size is 1 bar, which is less than 100g. For most individuals, consuming one bar as a snack or as part of a meal is a reasonable portion. Due to its calorie and saturated fat density, regular consumption of multiple bars may contribute significantly to daily intake, so portion control is important.
Can this cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 619.05mg of sodium per 100g, this CRACKER BARREL cheese bar is not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals following a low-sodium diet should monitor their intake carefully and consider smaller portions or choose cheese varieties specifically labeled as low sodium to manage their overall daily sodium consumption.