KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). Its score is primarily driven by its **high saturated fat content** relative to its nutritional benefits.
This KRAFT product scores 42/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
A 100g serving provides 21.4g of protein, contributing to daily needs.
The product contains 21.4g of saturated fat per 100g, a significant amount.
This processed cheese is NOVA class 3, indicating a moderate level of processing.
Portion control is important due to the calorie and saturated fat content.
Scores +9 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
607.14mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (21.4g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Sodium (607.1mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 42
KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese earns a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and less favorable components. On the positive side, it receives a bonus for its protein content, providing 21.4g per 100g, which is a substantial contribution to daily protein intake. It also gains points for micronutrients, specifically 55% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. However, several factors significantly penalize the score. The most impactful penalty comes from its high saturated fat content of 21.4g per 100g, which is a key area for moderation in dietary guidelines. The sodium content, at 607.14mg per 100g, also contributes to a penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 food, it incurs a penalty for being a processed food, containing ingredients like cellulose powder and natamycin added for texture and preservation. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this KRAFT product's processing and specific additive profile contribute to its lower score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kraft mild cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese is a significant source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone density and overall skeletal health. Incorporating this cheese into a balanced diet can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, particularly important for adolescents and older adults.
Provides Essential Protein
With 21.39g of protein per 100g, this KRAFT cheese offers a substantial amount of dietary protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and the production of enzymes and hormones. Including protein-rich foods in meals helps promote satiety and can support overall body function. This makes KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese a convenient option for increasing protein intake, especially when paired with other protein sources.
Rich in Vitamin A
This product is an excellent source of Vitamin A, delivering 119% DV per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Consuming foods rich in Vitamin A contributes to overall health and well-being. The Vitamin A in this cheese is naturally occurring, derived from the milk used in its production.
KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese receives a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). Its score is primarily driven by its high saturated fat content relative to its nutritional benefits.
How to eat it
KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese is commonly used as a topping, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in cooked dishes. A typical serving size is 0.25 cup (28g), which is considerably less than the 100g reference. It's often consumed as part of a meal or snack, providing flavor and texture.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fresh fruit to add fiber and other nutrients, balancing the meal.
Use as a topping for salads or vegetable dishes to enhance flavor and add protein, but be mindful of portion sizes to manage saturated fat.
Incorporate into homemade omelets or frittatas with plenty of vegetables for a nutrient-dense breakfast.
Consider grating your own cheese from a block to avoid anti-caking agents like cellulose powder if that is a concern.
Things to keep in mind
This KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese contains several additives, including potato starch, cellulose powder, and calcium sulfate to prevent caking, and natamycin as a natural mold inhibitor. While generally recognized as safe, individuals sensitive to food additives might consider these. The product contains pasteurized milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. Its sodium content of 607.14mg per 100g is moderate; however, for those monitoring sodium intake, particularly individuals with hypertension, careful portion control is advised. There are no declared cross-contamination risks or specific interactions noted for this product.
KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese provides beneficial nutrients like calcium, protein, and Vitamin A. However, its FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor) indicates that it is high in saturated fat and sodium, which are nutrients to consume in moderation according to dietary guidelines. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portion sizes.
How does KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic block of natural cheddar cheese, KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese, being a pre-shredded product, often includes anti-caking agents like cellulose powder. While nutritionally similar in terms of macros, some natural cheeses like Tillamook or Cabot may have simpler ingredient lists without these additives. The nutritional profile, particularly saturated fat and sodium, is comparable across many cheddar varieties.
What are 'cellulose powder' and 'natamycin' in the ingredient list?
Cellulose powder is a plant-derived fiber added to shredded cheese to prevent the shreds from clumping together. Natamycin is a naturally occurring antifungal agent used to inhibit mold growth on the cheese surface, extending its shelf life. Both are approved food additives.
What is a reasonable portion size for KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese?
The declared serving size for KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese is 0.25 cup (28g). This portion provides approximately 110 calories, 9g of total fat (6g saturated fat), and 170mg of sodium. Sticking to this recommended serving size helps manage the intake of saturated fat and sodium, aligning with dietary recommendations.
Can KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese be part of a low-sodium diet?
With 607.14mg of sodium per 100g, KRAFT Mild Cheddar Cheese is not considered a low-sodium food. For individuals on a low-sodium diet, it's important to monitor portion sizes carefully or seek out lower-sodium cheese alternatives. Even a small serving contributes to daily sodium intake.