Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix 48oz
Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite some micronutrient contributions.
FoodScore: 24/100 (Avoid) due to overall nutritional profile.
Contains 1100mg sodium per 100g, a significant amount for a snack.
Provides 10.2g protein and 2.4g fiber per 100g, offering some satiety.
This NOVA 4 ultra-processed snack is not a suitable whole-food alternative.
Best consumed in small, controlled portions to manage sodium intake.
Scores -17 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
10.2g
20% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1100mg
48% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
Protein (10.2g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.5g)-1
Sodium (1100mg)-6
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 24
Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix receives a FoodScore of 24/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary drivers for this low score are its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fats, which incur significant penalties. The product contains 1100mg of sodium per 100g, contributing a substantial -6 penalty. Additionally, the concentrated ultra-processed fat content, including soybean and palm oil, further reduces the score. While the product does offer some positive attributes, such as 10.2g of protein and 2.4g of fiber per 100g, which earn bonuses, and contributions from iron and folate, these are outweighed by the penalties. The inclusion of ingredients like soy lecithin and various enriched flours highlights its highly processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product offers significantly less nutritional density and higher levels of components to limit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kellogg us sunshine cheez-it crackers snack mix 48oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron and Folate
This snack mix contributes to your daily intake of iron and folate. Per 100g, it provides 4.1mg of iron (23% DV) and 31% DV of folate. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, while folate plays a crucial role in cell division and DNA synthesis. These micronutrients are often added back to enriched flour products, providing some nutritional value in a processed format.
Provides Protein and Fiber
Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix contains 10.2g of protein and 2.4g of fiber per 100g. Protein is important for muscle maintenance and repair, and can contribute to satiety, helping to manage hunger between meals. Fiber supports digestive health and can also aid in feelings of fullness. While these amounts are not exceptionally high for a snack, they do offer some nutritional contribution.
Convenient Snack Option
As a pre-packaged snack, this product offers convenience for on-the-go consumption. Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to store and transport, fitting into busy lifestyles where quick access to food is needed. While not a nutritionally optimal choice, its accessibility can be a factor for individuals seeking a readily available snack, especially when other options are limited. It can serve as a calorie source in specific situations.
Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix scores 24/100 (Avoid) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite some micronutrient contributions.
How to eat it
Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix is typically consumed as a standalone snack between meals or as part of a packed lunch. Common pitfalls include consuming large portions due to its palatability and ease of access.
Pair with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks or bell pepper slices to add fiber and vitamins and increase overall meal volume.
Combine with a source of healthy fats and protein, such as a small handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit, to create a more balanced snack.
Measure out a single serving (1/2 cup) into a bowl to practice portion control and avoid overconsumption, especially given its high sodium content.
Consider this snack for occasional use rather than a daily staple, due to its ultra-processed classification and nutrient profile.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with sodium-sensitive hypertension should be particularly cautious with Kellogg US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix, as it contains 1100mg of sodium per 100g. The ingredient list also includes soybean and palm oil with TBHQ, a preservative that some individuals may prefer to limit. Allergens declared on the label include wheat, milk, and soy, which are common food sensitivities. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.2g per 100g), is a nutritional concern. Due to its ultra-processed nature, it may not be suitable for those following diets focused on whole, minimally processed foods.
Is Kellogg Company US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix healthy?
Kellogg Company US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix scores 24/100, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice. It is classified as an ultra-processed food and is high in sodium and contains trans fats. While it provides some iron and folate, these benefits are outweighed by its less desirable nutritional components.
How does Kellogg Company US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix compare to other snack crackers?
Compared to plain whole-wheat crackers like Triscuit, Kellogg Company US Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix typically has a higher sodium content and is more ultra-processed. While Triscuit also contains sodium, it often offers a higher fiber content and a simpler ingredient list, making it a more nutritionally favorable option in the cracker category.
What is TBHQ and why is it in this product?
TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic antioxidant used as a preservative to prevent fats and oils from going rancid, thus extending shelf life. It is present in the soybean and palm oil used in this snack mix to maintain freshness. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some consumers prefer to avoid synthetic preservatives.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack mix?
A reasonable portion size is 1/2 cup, as indicated on the nutrition label. Adhering to this portion helps manage intake of sodium and total calories. Due to its high sodium content, it's advisable to consume this snack in moderation and not as a frequent daily item.
Can this snack mix be part of a weight management plan?
While any food can fit into a weight management plan in moderation, this snack mix is calorie-dense (456.67 calories per 100g) and not particularly satiating due to its ultra-processed nature. Its high sodium content can also contribute to temporary water retention. For weight management, focusing on whole, nutrient-dense snacks is generally more effective.