KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE scores 55/100, primarily driven by its significant protein and micronutrient content, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
This KRETSCHMAR cheese has a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A serving provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety and muscle support.
The product contains 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g, a factor to consider for daily intake.
It is classified as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Each 100g delivers 55% DV for calcium and 119% DV for Vitamin A.
Scores +22 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
642.86mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (642.9mg)-2
Why it scores 55
KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 55 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. The product earns significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 25g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a dairy product. It also gains points for its micronutrient density, specifically for calcium (714.29mg, 55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV per 100g). As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered a processed culinary ingredient, which contributes positively to its score compared to more ultra-processed options. However, the score is tempered by penalties, primarily due to its saturated fat content of 17.89g per 100g. The sodium level, at 642.86mg per 100g, also incurs a minor penalty. The ingredient list, featuring "CULTURED PASTEURIZED MILK," "SALT," and "ENZYMES," indicates a relatively straightforward composition. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this KRETSCHMAR product's nutritional profile is typical for a mild cheddar cheese, offering similar benefits and considerations.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kretschmar mild cheddar natural cheese, mild cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is a fundamental mineral for bone density and strength throughout life, playing a crucial role in maintaining skeletal integrity. Including this cheese in your diet can contribute to meeting daily calcium requirements, which is important for preventing bone-related issues. The presence of Vitamin A also supports bone metabolism, working synergistically with calcium.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 25g of protein per 100g, this KRETSCHMAR cheese offers a significant protein contribution. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making it a valuable nutrient for active individuals or those looking to maintain muscle mass. Incorporating a serving into meals or snacks can help with satiety and provide the building blocks your body needs for various physiological functions, beyond just muscle support.
Source of Vitamin A
This cheese is a rich source of Vitamin A, delivering 119% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining good vision, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy skin. As a fat-soluble vitamin, the fat content in cheese aids in its absorption. Regular consumption of foods rich in Vitamin A can contribute to overall health and well-being, especially for these key bodily systems.
KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE scores 55/100, primarily driven by its significant protein and micronutrient content, balanced against its saturated fat and sodium levels.
How to eat it
Mild cheddar cheese is a versatile food, commonly enjoyed in the US as a snack, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in cooked dishes. A typical serving size is 1 ounce (about 28g), which is smaller than the 100g used for nutrient calculations. It's often paired with crackers, fruit, or melted into recipes.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or apple slices to add fiber and balance the meal.
Use a measured 1-ounce portion to manage saturated fat and sodium intake effectively.
Incorporate into vegetable-rich dishes like omelets or salads to boost flavor and nutrient density.
Consider grating a small amount over a baked potato instead of using butter or sour cream for a flavorful topping.
Things to keep in mind
The primary consideration for KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE is its saturated fat content and sodium levels. Individuals monitoring their intake of these nutrients, particularly those with cardiovascular concerns or high blood pressure, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list is straightforward, with "CULTURED PASTEURIZED MILK" being the main component, and no artificial colors or flavors beyond annatto color, which is a natural coloring agent. As a dairy product, it contains milk and is therefore not suitable for individuals with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. There are no other common allergens explicitly listed that would pose a widespread concern.
Is KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE healthy?
KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE has a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile. It's a good source of protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, which are beneficial for bone and muscle health. However, it also contains notable amounts of saturated fat and sodium, so portion control is key to fitting it into a balanced diet.
How does KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE compare to other cheddar cheeses?
Compared to many generic mild cheddar cheeses, KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE offers a similar nutritional breakdown, including comparable levels of protein, fat, and sodium. For instance, brands like Tillamook Medium Cheddar also present a similar nutrient profile. The specific ingredient list for KRETSCHMAR is relatively simple, which is a positive aspect for those seeking less processed options within the cheese category.
What is 'ANNATTO COLOR' in the ingredient list?
Annatto color is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It's used to give the cheese its characteristic yellow-orange hue. It is not an artificial dye and is generally considered safe for consumption, posing no significant health concerns for most individuals.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
A typical serving size for cheese is 1 ounce (about 28 grams). While the nutritional data is presented per 100g, sticking to a 1-ounce portion will help manage your intake of saturated fat and sodium. For example, a 1-ounce serving would provide approximately 7g of protein and about 180mg of sodium. Mindful portioning allows you to enjoy the benefits without overconsuming.
Can I use this cheese if I'm trying to reduce my sodium intake?
While KRETSCHMAR MILD CHEDDAR NATURAL CHEESE contains 642.86mg of sodium per 100g, a 1-ounce serving would have around 180mg. If you are actively reducing sodium, it's important to account for this in your daily total. You might consider pairing it with naturally low-sodium foods or exploring reduced-sodium cheese varieties as an alternative.