CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE, EXTRA SHARP WHITE
CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its notable protein content and calcium, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 53/100.
This product provides 21.39g of protein and 49% DV of calcium per 100g.
A primary concern is the 21.39g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to penalties.
It is a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Consider portion control due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
Scores +20 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
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 53
CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 53 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score is positively influenced by its substantial protein content, providing 21.39g per 100g, which earns a significant bonus. Additionally, the product is a good source of calcium, contributing 49% of the Daily Value per 100g, adding to its micronutrient bonus. It is classified as a NOVA class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, which also contributes positively to its score by indicating a lower degree of processing compared to ultra-processed foods. However, the score is tempered by its fat profile, specifically 21.39g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a penalty. The sodium content, at 642.86mg per 100g, also results in a minor penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this CRACKER BARREL cheddar offers a comparable nutritional profile, with similar contributions from protein and calcium, alongside similar levels of saturated fat and sodium. The inclusion of natamycin as a natural mold inhibitor helps maintain product quality without impacting the nutritional score negatively.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cracker barrel extra sharp white cheddar cheese, extra sharp white actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE is a significant source of calcium, providing 49% of the Daily Value per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can contribute to bone density and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating a serving of this cheese can help meet daily calcium requirements, especially for individuals who may not consume enough from other dairy sources.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 21.39g of protein per 100g, this CRACKER BARREL cheddar cheese offers a high-quality protein source. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, including muscle. It also plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. Including protein-rich foods like this cheese in your diet can support muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall bodily functions. This makes it a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
Provides Essential Nutrients
Beyond calcium and protein, cheese like CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR contains other beneficial nutrients inherent to milk, such as phosphorus and some B vitamins, though not in amounts that significantly impact the FoodScore. These nutrients contribute to various bodily functions, including energy metabolism and cellular health. The natural fermentation process involved in cheesemaking can also contribute to the bioavailability of some of these nutrients.
CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its notable protein content and calcium, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
How to eat it
CRACKER BARREL EXTRA SHARP WHITE CHEDDAR CHEESE is typically consumed as a snack, an ingredient in cooked dishes, or as part of a cheese board. A common portion size is 1 ounce (28g), which is a small slice or cube. Due to its concentrated nutrient density, mindful portioning is key.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fruit to add fiber and balance the meal, making it a more nutritionally complete snack.
Use grated cheddar in moderation over salads or vegetables to add flavor and a source of protein and calcium without excessive saturated fat.
Incorporate into recipes, but be mindful of other high-sodium or high-fat ingredients to keep the overall dish nutritionally balanced.
Consider using a smaller portion alongside other protein sources in a meal to manage total saturated fat intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains pasteurized milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. While the ingredient list is relatively short and free of artificial colors or flavors, the presence of natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor. For most healthy individuals, this ingredient is not a concern. The primary nutritional caution for this specific SKU is its saturated fat content, which is 21.39g per 100g. Individuals monitoring their intake of saturated fat, particularly those with cardiovascular health concerns, should consume this product in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes.
Is CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese healthy?
CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers a good amount of protein (21.39g/100g) and calcium (49% DV/100g), which are beneficial for bone and muscle health. However, its saturated fat content (21.39g/100g) and sodium (642.86mg/100g) are factors to consider for overall dietary balance. It can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portion sizes.
How does CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar compare to other cheddar cheeses?
Compared to a generic cheddar cheese, CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar has a similar nutritional profile in terms of protein, fat, and sodium. For instance, a typical sharp cheddar like Tillamook Sharp Cheddar might have comparable saturated fat and sodium levels. The 'extra sharp' designation primarily refers to its flavor intensity, not necessarily a significant difference in its macronutrient breakdown.
What is natamycin in CRACKER BARREL cheese?
Natamycin is a natural mold inhibitor used in CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese. It helps prevent the growth of mold on the surface of the cheese, extending its shelf life and maintaining quality. It is a common and safe food additive, and its presence does not negatively impact the FoodScore.
What is a recommended portion size for CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar?
The recommended serving size for CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese is 1 ounce (28g). This portion provides approximately 110 calories, 6g of protein, and 6g of saturated fat. Sticking to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories and saturated fat, allowing you to enjoy the cheese as part of a balanced diet.
Can CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, CRACKER BARREL Extra Sharp White Cheddar Cheese is not considered a low-sodium food. For individuals on a low-sodium diet, it's important to consume this cheese in very small portions or opt for lower-sodium cheese alternatives. Always check the nutrition label for sodium content when managing dietary restrictions.