LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS, HAM & CHEDDAR
LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional density.
Contains 14.6g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in sodium at 818.18mg per 100g, a significant penalty.
NOVA class 4 signifies it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider as an occasional snack rather than a dietary staple.
Scores +1 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.6g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
818.18mg
36% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (8.2g)-10
Sodium (818.2mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The product also faces a penalty for its high sodium content, providing 818.18mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a snack. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 8.18g per 100g contributes to a negative score adjustment. On the positive side, LUNCHABLES provides 14.6g of protein per 100g, which earns a bonus. It also receives minor bonuses for certain micronutrients, including 14% DV for calcium, 40% DV for Vitamin A, and 12% DV for Vitamin C. However, the presence of ingredients like sodium nitrite and modified cornstarch further reflects its processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product offers a less favorable nutritional profile due to its processing and specific nutrient levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lunchables ham & cheddar with crackers, ham & cheddar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This LUNCHABLES product provides 14.6g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and support muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including protein in snacks can help manage hunger between meals, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day. The ham and cheese components are the primary sources of this protein.
Provides Calcium and Vitamins
The cheddar pasteurized prepared cheese product in this LUNCHABLES item contributes 181.82mg of calcium per 100g, meeting 14% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various physiological processes. Additionally, the product offers 40% DV for Vitamin A and 12% DV for Vitamin C. Vitamin A supports vision and immune function, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant important for immune health and collagen synthesis.
Convenient Snack Option
This product offers a convenient and portable snack solution for individuals with busy schedules. Its pre-portioned packaging makes it easy to grab and consume on the go, requiring no preparation. While not a nutritionally ideal choice for regular consumption, its convenience can be beneficial in specific situations where access to fresh, whole foods is limited, helping to prevent skipping meals entirely.
LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS is typically consumed as a single-serving snack or part of a packed lunch. It is designed for quick and easy consumption without refrigeration for a limited time, making it a common choice for children's lunchboxes or as a convenient bite during travel. The entire package is generally eaten as one portion.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this LUNCHABLES snack with a piece of fresh fruit like an apple or a small banana.
For a more balanced meal, add a serving of raw vegetables such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices alongside the crackers, ham, and cheese.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if consuming this snack, aim to choose lower-sodium options for other meals throughout the day.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and higher sodium levels.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The presence of sodium nitrite is a common preservative in cured meats, and while approved for use, some consumers prefer to limit its intake. The cheddar pasteurized prepared cheese product contains sorbic acid as a preservative, and also includes artificial colors like oleoresin paprika and annatto. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives or those looking to minimize their intake of ultra-processed foods may wish to consider alternatives. The product also contains milk, which is a common allergen, and individuals with dairy allergies should avoid it. Given the high sodium content, individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should consume this product in moderation.
Is LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS healthy?
This LUNCHABLES product scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, indicating it is not a nutritionally optimal choice for regular consumption. It is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) and is high in sodium and saturated fat. While it provides protein, calcium, and some vitamins, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does LUNCHABLES compare to other snack options?
Compared to whole-food snack alternatives like a piece of fruit with a handful of nuts, LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS has a lower nutritional density. For instance, a snack like a KIND Bar might offer more fiber and less sodium, depending on the specific flavor. This product is more processed and contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat than many minimally processed options.
What is 'cheddar pasteurized prepared cheese product'?
This ingredient is a processed cheese product, not natural cheese. It typically contains milk, water, milk protein concentrate, and milkfat, along with emulsifiers like sodium citrate, and preservatives such as sorbic acid. These additions give it a consistent texture and longer shelf life, but it differs nutritionally from natural cheddar cheese.
How much LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS can I eat daily?
Due to its high sodium content (818.18mg per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food, this product is best consumed in moderation. It is not recommended as a daily staple. For most individuals, occasional consumption as part of a varied diet would be appropriate, balancing it with nutrient-dense whole foods.
Does this product contain added sugar?
According to the nutritional information, LUNCHABLES HAM & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. While some sugar may be present naturally in the ingredients, no additional sugars have been added during processing. This can be a positive aspect for those monitoring their added sugar intake.