LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK scores 38/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing beneficial calcium and vitamin A.
This LUCERNE cheese product receives a FoodScore of 38/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A single serving provides 92% DV of calcium and 106% DV of Vitamin A.
The product is high in sodium (1238.1mg per 100g) and saturated fat (16.71g per 100g).
Classified as NOVA 3, it is a processed food, unlike less processed generic cheese options.
Consider portion control and pairing with whole, unprocessed foods to balance its nutrient density.
Scores +5 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1238.1mg
54% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (16.7g)-15
Sodium (1238.1mg)-6
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 38
LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK receives a FoodScore of 38 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its high content of nutrients that should be limited. The product incurs significant penalties for its saturated fat content, at 16.71g per 100g, and its sodium level, which is 1238.1mg per 100g. As a NOVA 3 classified food, it is considered processed, contributing an additional penalty to its score. On the positive side, it receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 14.29g per 100g, and for its micronutrient profile, specifically its high levels of calcium (92% DV) and Vitamin A (106% DV). The inclusion of palm oil and modified potato starch in the ingredient list are indicators of its processed nature, differentiating it from a less processed generic dairy equivalent which typically has fewer added ingredients and lower sodium levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lucerne, slices cheese, pepper jack, pepper jack actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This LUCERNE pepper jack cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 1190.48mg per 100g, which is 92% of the Daily Value. Calcium is a fundamental mineral for bone density and strength, playing a crucial role in maintaining skeletal integrity throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can contribute to reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating this product, in moderation, can help meet daily calcium requirements, especially when other dairy sources are limited.
Provides Essential Vitamin A
LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK offers a substantial amount of Vitamin A, with 106% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. This fat-soluble vitamin is readily available in dairy products. Including this cheese can contribute to your daily Vitamin A intake, supporting overall physiological processes.
Source of Protein
With 14.29g of protein per 100g, this cheese product contributes to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and hormone regulation. It also plays a role in satiety, helping you feel full. While this product is a source of protein, it is important to consider its other nutritional components when evaluating its overall contribution to a balanced diet.
LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK scores 38/100 (Poor) due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, despite providing beneficial calcium and vitamin A.
How to eat it
Pepper jack cheese slices are commonly used in sandwiches, burgers, or melted over various dishes for a spicy, creamy flavor. A typical serving is one slice. Due to its sodium and saturated fat content, mindful portioning is key.
Pair with whole-grain crackers or fresh vegetables to add fiber and reduce the overall sodium impact of a snack.
Use a single slice to add flavor to a sandwich or wrap, rather than multiple slices, to manage saturated fat intake.
Melt over a small portion of lean protein, like grilled chicken or turkey, to enhance flavor without excessive amounts.
Consider using it as an occasional ingredient in recipes, rather than a daily staple, to balance your diet.
Things to keep in mind
This LUCERNE cheese product contains several ingredients common in processed cheese, such as palm oil, modified potato starch, and sodium citrate. Individuals with sensitivities to highly processed foods may wish to moderate their intake. The product also contains sorbic acid as a preservative, which is generally recognized as safe but can be a concern for some. Given its high sodium content (1238.1mg per 100g), individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on a sodium-restricted diet should consume this product sparingly. It is made with milk and whey, so it is not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy.
Is LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK healthy?
This LUCERNE pepper jack cheese scores 38/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. While it provides good amounts of calcium and Vitamin A, its high levels of sodium and saturated fat are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK compare to generic pepper jack cheese?
Compared to a generic, less processed pepper jack cheese, this LUCERNE product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed) due to ingredients like palm oil and modified potato starch. Generic options often have a simpler ingredient list and may contain lower sodium and saturated fat levels, depending on the specific product.
What is the role of palm oil in this cheese?
Palm oil is included in this LUCERNE cheese product as a fat source and texturizer, contributing to its creamy consistency and melt properties. It is a common ingredient in many processed cheese products. While it adds to the total fat content, it is distinct from the milk fats present.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
A reasonable portion size for this LUCERNE cheese is typically one slice (21g), as indicated by the manufacturer. Consuming multiple slices would significantly increase your intake of sodium and saturated fat, making it harder to stay within daily dietary guidelines.
Does this cheese contain real peppers?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies jalapeno peppers as an ingredient, along with oleoresin capsicum, which is a concentrated extract from chili peppers. These ingredients contribute to the pepper jack flavor and spiciness of the cheese.
How does this compare to other processed cheese brands like Kraft Singles?
LUCERNE, SLICES CHEESE, PEPPER JACK, PEPPER JACK is comparable to other processed cheese brands like Kraft Singles in its NOVA classification (processed) and the use of ingredients like palm oil and stabilizers. Nutritional profiles, especially for sodium and saturated fat, can vary between specific products and flavors across brands, so checking individual labels is always recommended.