HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
Nutrition data (per 100 g)
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC #2212094).
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP contains 357 kcal per 100 g.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP contains 17.9 g of protein per 100 g.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP contains 28.6 g of total fat per 100 g (17.9 g saturated).
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP contains 0 g of added sugar per 100 g.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP provides 1429 mg of sodium per 100 g.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP provides 536 mg of calcium per 100 g.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP scores 28/100 on FoodScore (avoid).
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD, SMOKEY SHARP is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed food).
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp scores 28/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
It provides 17.9g of protein and 41% DV of calcium per 100g.
A single serving contains 408mg of sodium, contributing to a high daily intake.
This product is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, unlike generic dairy.
Consider this product for occasional use, mindful of its sodium and saturated fat.
Scores -5 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
17.89g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1428.57mg
62% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (17.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (1428.6mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 28
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD earns a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. While it receives bonuses for its protein content (17.9g per 100g) and notable micronutrients like calcium (41% DV) and Vitamin A (298% DV), these are significantly offset by several penalties. The product is penalized for its high saturated fat content, providing 17.9g per 100g. A major detractor is the very high sodium level, at 1428.57mg per 100g, which contributes substantially to daily sodium limits. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food incurs a significant penalty. The presence of ingredients like sodium phosphate and sodium hexametaphosphate as stabilizers and preservatives also contributes to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, HOFFMAN'S product contains considerably more sodium and is more processed, impacting its overall nutritional score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hoffman's smokey sharp hickory smoked pasteurized process cheese food, smokey sharp actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp provides 17.89g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals can also help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. While this product offers protein, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when incorporating it into your diet.
Good Source of Calcium
This product is a good source of calcium, offering 535.71mg per 100g, which is 41% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Including calcium-rich foods in your diet is important for long-term bone health. However, the high sodium content of this product should be balanced with other calcium sources.
Rich in Vitamin A
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp is notably rich in Vitamin A, providing 298% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. While this product delivers a significant amount of Vitamin A, it is important to consume a variety of foods to meet all micronutrient needs without over-relying on a single source.
HOFFMAN'S SMOKEY SHARP HICKORY SMOKED PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE FOOD receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp Process Cheese Food is typically consumed as a spread, melted on sandwiches, or incorporated into cooked dishes. A common serving size is 1 ounce. Due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, moderation is key to avoid exceeding daily recommended limits.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or vegetables to add fiber and reduce the overall sodium density of the snack.
Use sparingly as a flavor enhancer in recipes rather than a primary ingredient to manage sodium and fat intake.
Combine with fresh vegetables like bell peppers or celery sticks for a balanced snack, adding crunch and nutrients.
Consider using a smaller portion than suggested on the package if you are monitoring your sodium consumption.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a high amount of sodium (1428.57mg per 100g), which can be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient list includes sodium phosphate and sodium hexametaphosphate, which are food additives commonly used as emulsifiers and preservatives in processed cheese products. While generally recognized as safe, individuals sensitive to food additives or those with kidney conditions may wish to limit intake. The product also contains milk, which is a common allergen. As an ultra-processed food, it may contain components that some individuals prefer to limit in their diet.
Is HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp Process Cheese Food healthy?
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp Process Cheese Food receives a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid). While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, its high sodium and saturated fat content, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food, means it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not considered a healthy everyday food choice.
How does HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp compare to natural cheese?
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp is a pasteurized process cheese food, which means it undergoes more processing than natural cheese. Compared to a generic natural cheddar cheese, this product typically contains higher sodium levels and may have different textures and melting properties due to added emulsifiers like sodium phosphate. Natural cheeses generally have simpler ingredient lists and are less processed.
What is apocarotenal in the ingredient list?
Apocarotenal is a food coloring agent derived from carotenoids, which are natural pigments found in plants. In HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp, it is used to give the cheese its characteristic orange color. It is generally considered safe for consumption and is also a source of Vitamin A, though its primary role here is as a colorant.
What is a reasonable portion size for HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp?
The declared serving size for HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp is 1 ounce (28g). This portion provides 408mg of sodium and 8.1g of saturated fat. Given the high sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to this serving size, or even less, is advisable, especially if you are monitoring your intake of these nutrients. Occasional consumption is recommended.
Can I use HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp in a low-carb diet?
HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp contains 0g of fiber and 0g of added sugar per 100g, making it low in carbohydrates. From a carbohydrate perspective, it could fit into a low-carb eating plan. However, individuals following such diets should also consider the high saturated fat and sodium content when evaluating its overall suitability for their dietary goals.
How does HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp compare to Velveeta?
Both HOFFMAN'S Smokey Sharp and Velveeta are pasteurized process cheese products, falling into the ultra-processed category. They share similar characteristics in terms of their ingredient lists, including emulsifiers and preservatives, and tend to be higher in sodium and saturated fat compared to natural cheeses. Nutritional profiles can vary slightly between specific products, but their overall classification and nutritional concerns are comparable.