FoodScore
0/ 100
PoordairyHORIZON ORGANIC· 1 ONZ

HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES, COLBY & JACK

HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES receive a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to their **high saturated fat content** and classification as a processed food.

  • This product scores 42/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
  • A serving provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • The primary nutritional concern is the 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g.
  • It is a NOVA class 3 processed food, similar to many packaged cheese products.
  • Consider portion control due to the calorie and fat density.
  • Scores +9 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
607.14mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (607.1mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 42

HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES achieve a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing them in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas of concern. On the positive side, the product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 25g per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. It also gains points for micronutrients, specifically delivering 55% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. However, several factors lead to penalties. The most substantial penalty comes from the high saturated fat content, at 17.89g per 100g, which is a key consideration for cardiovascular health. Additionally, the sodium level of 607.14mg per 100g incurs a minor penalty. The product is also classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which results in a 5-point deduction. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain milk, these cheese bites are significantly more calorie-dense and higher in fat and sodium, though they also offer a more concentrated source of protein and certain fat-soluble vitamins. The inclusion of cellulose (to prevent caking) is a common additive in shredded or bite-sized cheese products.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in horizon organic colby & jack organic cheese bites, colby & jack actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Bone Health

HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES are a good source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, playing a crucial role in bone density throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support skeletal integrity, particularly important for growing children and adults at risk of bone loss. This product can contribute to daily calcium needs as part of a balanced diet.

Contributes to Vitamin A Intake

This product supplies a substantial amount of Vitamin A, offering 119% DV per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin vital for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. It also plays a role in cell growth and differentiation. The Vitamin A in cheese is typically in the form of retinol, which is readily absorbed by the body. Including foods like HORIZON ORGANIC cheese bites can help meet daily requirements for this important micronutrient.

Source of Protein for Satiety

With 25g of protein per 100g, these cheese bites can be a contributing source of dietary protein. Protein is known for its role in promoting satiety, helping individuals feel full and satisfied after eating. This can be beneficial for managing appetite and supporting weight management efforts. Protein is also crucial for muscle repair and growth, making it an important nutrient for active individuals and those looking to maintain muscle mass.

How to eat it

HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES are typically consumed as a snack or as an addition to meals. Their convenient bite-size format makes them easy to grab and eat on the go. A common portion is about 1 ounce, which is roughly 28 grams.

Pair with fresh fruits or vegetables like apple slices or carrot sticks to add fiber and additional vitamins.
Incorporate into a balanced lunchbox alongside whole-grain crackers and a source of healthy fats like avocado.
Use as a protein-rich topping for salads or in a small portion with a handful of nuts for a balanced snack.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while convenient, the calorie and fat density can add up quickly.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES as they contain milk, a common allergen. The product also includes cellulose (to prevent caking), which is generally recognized as safe but can be a concern for some individuals sensitive to food additives. Due to the sodium content, individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should consume this product in moderation. While the product is organic, this designation primarily relates to farming practices and does not inherently alter the nutritional profile regarding fat, sodium, or calorie density. There are no artificial colors or flavors listed, with organic annatto used for color in the Colby cheese.

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Reader questions
Is HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES healthy?
This product scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides beneficial protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Its classification as a processed food also impacts its overall score. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does HORIZON ORGANIC compare to other cheese brands?
Compared to a generic block of cheddar cheese, HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES have a similar nutritional profile in terms of fat and protein. However, the convenience of pre-portioned bites might lead to easier overconsumption. For example, a brand like Sargento Balanced Breaks offers cheese with nuts and dried fruit, which provides additional fiber and healthy fats.
What is 'organic annatto' and why is it in the cheese?
Organic annatto is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used in the Colby cheese component of HORIZON ORGANIC COLBY & JACK ORGANIC CHEESE BITES to give it its characteristic orange hue. It is a common, naturally-derived colorant in many cheese varieties.
What is a recommended portion size for these cheese bites?
The serving size is 1 ounce (approximately 28g). This portion provides around 110 calories, 7g of protein, and 9g of total fat, with 5g of saturated fat. Sticking to the recommended serving size helps manage calorie and saturated fat intake, especially if consumed as a snack.
Can these cheese bites be included in a low-sodium diet?
With 607.14mg of sodium per 100g, these cheese bites are not considered a low-sodium food. Individuals on a low-sodium diet should consume them sparingly or choose lower-sodium alternatives. Always check the nutrition label to ensure it fits your dietary needs.

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Data & references