HORIZON ORGANIC ORGANIC CHEDDAR CHEESE, RAISINS, CASHEWS & SWEETENED CRANBERRIES scores 45/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by a notable protein content, balanced by its saturated fat level.
This product received a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating it is a decent option.
A strength is its protein content, providing 16.3g per 100g serving.
The primary nutritional concern is the 10.51g of saturated fat per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this product offers a convenient, portioned snack.
Consider this item as an occasional snack due to its caloric density and fat content.
Scores +12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.3g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
16.3g
33% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
313.95mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.3g)+1
Protein (16.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.5g)-15
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
HORIZON ORGANIC ORGANIC CHEDDAR CHEESE, RAISINS, CASHEWS & SWEETENED CRANBERRIES achieves a FoodScore of 45 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. On the positive side, the product receives significant bonuses for its protein content, contributing 16.3g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a snack item. It also gains points for micronutrients, specifically providing 27% DV for calcium and 78% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. The presence of 2.3g of fiber also adds a small bonus. However, the score is notably impacted by penalties. The saturated fat content is 10.51g per 100g, which is a considerable amount and leads to a significant deduction. Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 product, it is considered processed, incurring a penalty. While the product contains organic cane sugar in the cranberries, the overall added sugar content is declared as 0g per 100g, suggesting the amount from the cranberries is below the threshold for reporting. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this HORIZON ORGANIC snack offers a more complex nutritional profile due to the inclusion of nuts and dried fruit, which contribute to both its benefits and areas for moderation.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in horizon organic organic cheddar cheese, raisins, cashews & sweetened cranberries actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This product provides a notable amount of calcium, with 348.84mg per 100g, contributing 27% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, playing a crucial role in bone density throughout life. The organic cheddar cheese is a primary source of this nutrient, making this snack a convenient way to contribute to your daily calcium intake, especially for those who may not consume enough dairy or calcium-rich foods regularly.
Contributes to Daily Protein Intake
With 16.3g of protein per 100g, this snack can significantly contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein-rich snacks like this can help promote satiety and support overall metabolic health, making it a useful option for individuals looking to increase their protein consumption throughout the day.
Source of Vitamin A
This product is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 78% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The organic cheddar cheese is the primary contributor to this nutrient. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin A can help support these vital bodily functions and contribute to a well-rounded diet.
HORIZON ORGANIC ORGANIC CHEDDAR CHEESE, RAISINS, CASHEWS & SWEETENED CRANBERRIES scores 45/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by a notable protein content, balanced by its saturated fat level.
How to eat it
This HORIZON ORGANIC snack pack is designed for convenience, often consumed as a quick snack between meals or as part of a packed lunch. Its individual packaging makes it easy to grab and go, providing a mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. A common pitfall is viewing it as a light snack, despite its caloric density.
Pair this snack with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables to add dietary fiber and a wider range of vitamins and minerals.
Consider this a meal component rather than a small snack, especially if you are monitoring caloric intake, due to its 395.35 calories per 100g.
If you are looking to reduce saturated fat, balance this snack by choosing other meals throughout the day that are lower in saturated fats.
This product is suitable for on-the-go consumption; however, be mindful of refrigeration requirements for the cheese component.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk and cashews, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to dairy or tree nuts should avoid this product. The presence of organic sunflower oil in both the raisins and cranberries is generally well-tolerated, but those with specific sensitivities to seed oils should be aware. While the product contains organic cane sugar in the cranberries, the overall added sugar content is reported as 0g per 100g. However, individuals monitoring sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should still consider the total carbohydrate content from the dried fruits. The sodium content of 313.95mg per 100g is moderate; those on a sodium-restricted diet should factor this into their daily intake.
This product scores 45/100, indicating it is a decent choice. It offers protein and important micronutrients like calcium and Vitamin A. However, its saturated fat content is notable, and it is a processed food (NOVA class 3). It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does HORIZON ORGANIC compare to a generic cheese and cracker snack?
Compared to a generic cheese and cracker snack, this HORIZON ORGANIC product provides additional nutrients from the cashews and dried fruits, such as fiber and healthy fats. However, it may also contain more calories and sugar depending on the specific cracker and cheese combination. For example, a typical Sargento Balanced Breaks snack might have a different macro profile.
What is the role of 'organic sunflower oil' in this product?
Organic sunflower oil is used in the organic raisins and organic cranberries. Its primary role is often as a processing aid to prevent sticking, maintain texture, and sometimes to add a slight sheen to dried fruits. It is a common ingredient in many dried fruit products.
What is a recommended portion size for this snack?
The serving size is one container, which is 100g. Given its caloric density of 395.35 calories per 100g, consuming the entire container provides a substantial amount of energy. If you are managing your calorie intake, you might consider sharing the container or consuming it as a more significant snack or part of a meal.
Is this product suitable for children?
This product contains allergens like milk and cashews, so it's important to ensure a child has no allergies. The combination of cheese, nuts, and dried fruit provides protein and some micronutrients. However, the caloric density and saturated fat content should be considered within a child's overall daily diet. Always supervise young children with nuts due to choking hazards.