LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS, CHEDDAR & MOZZARELLA scores 12/100 (Avoid) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high content of saturated fat and trans fat.
This LUNCHABLES product scores 12/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It provides 19.7g of protein and 460.53mg of calcium per 100g.
A significant concern is the 1.32g of trans fat and 921.05mg of sodium per 100g.
Compared to a whole-food snack, this is a NOVA 4 ultra-processed item.
Consider this product for occasional use rather than a regular dietary component.
Scores -29 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
1.3g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
19.74g
39% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
921.05mg
40% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (19.7g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (10.5g)-15
Sodium (921.0mg)-4
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 12
LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS, CHEDDAR & MOZZARELLA receives a FoodScore of 12/100, primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food. While it offers 19.7g of protein and notable amounts of calcium (35% DV) and Vitamin A (44% DV) per 100g, these positive contributions are outweighed by several nutritional drawbacks. The product contains 10.5g of saturated fat and 1.32g of trans fat per 100g, with the presence of trans fat incurring a significant penalty. The sodium content is also high at 921.05mg per 100g. Ingredients like PASTEURIZED PREPARED CHEDDAR CHEESE PRODUCT and PASTEURIZED PREPARED MOZZARELLA CHEESE PRODUCT contribute to the processed nature, containing multiple additives such as sodium citrate and sorbic acid. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this LUNCHABLES product provides a less favorable nutrient profile due to its processing and fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lunchables lunch combinations, cheddar & mozzarella actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This LUNCHABLES product provides 19.7g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions. While this product is ultra-processed, its protein content can help meet daily protein needs, especially when other protein sources are limited. For a typical serving size, this offers a notable amount of protein.
Calcium Contribution
With 460.53mg of calcium per 100g, this product contributes 35% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for bone health and nerve function. Including sources of calcium in the diet is important, and this product can be one such source. The calcium comes from the cheese products, which are also fortified with milk protein concentrate.
Vitamin A Content
This LUNCHABLES item contains 44% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function. The presence of Vitamin A is primarily derived from the cheese components. While not a primary source of vitamins, this product does offer a measurable amount of this fat-soluble vitamin.
LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS, CHEDDAR & MOZZARELLA scores 12/100 (Avoid) due to its ultra-processed nature and high content of saturated fat and trans fat.
How to eat it
LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS are typically consumed as a convenient, pre-packaged snack or light meal, often by children. A common portion is one package. It's designed for on-the-go consumption and requires no preparation, making it a quick option.
To improve the overall nutritional balance, pair this LUNCHABLES product with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables.
Consider the portion size; one package is 2.7 ounces. Be mindful of total daily intake of saturated fat and sodium if consuming regularly.
For a more nutrient-dense snack, consider alternatives like a piece of fruit with a handful of nuts or a hard-boiled egg.
This product is best consumed as an occasional item rather than a daily dietary staple due to its processing and nutrient profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content (921.05mg per 100g), which can be a concern for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, including children. The presence of trans fat (1.32g per 100g) is also a nutritional caution, as trans fats are generally recommended to be minimized in the diet. The ingredient list includes sorbic acid as a preservative, which is generally recognized as safe but contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the food. Individuals with milk allergies should avoid this product due to the primary ingredients being milk-based cheese products.
Is LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS, CHEDDAR & MOZZARELLA healthy?
This LUNCHABLES product scores 12/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore methodology. While it provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, it is an ultra-processed food with high levels of saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium. It is not considered a healthy option for regular consumption.
How does LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS compare to a cheese stick and whole-wheat crackers?
Compared to a simple snack of a cheese stick and whole-wheat crackers, this LUNCHABLES product is more processed and contains trans fats, which are typically absent in whole-food alternatives. While both provide protein and calcium, the whole-food option generally has a better nutrient profile with less sodium and no trans fat. For example, a Sargento cheese stick with Triscuit crackers would likely have a higher FoodScore.
What is 'MILK PROTEIN CONCENTRATE' in the ingredients?
MILK PROTEIN CONCENTRATE is a dairy ingredient made by filtering milk to remove lactose and water, resulting in a product with a higher concentration of milk proteins. It is used here to boost the protein content and modify the texture of the prepared cheese products, contributing to the processed nature of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this LUNCHABLES product?
The declared serving size for LUNCHABLES LUNCH COMBINATIONS, CHEDDAR & MOZZARELLA is 2.7 ounces (one package). Given its nutritional profile, consuming one package occasionally is a reasonable approach. Regular or multiple servings could contribute significantly to daily intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While technically it can be included, this LUNCHABLES product should be considered an occasional item within a balanced diet. Its ultra-processed nature and high content of less desirable nutrients mean it should not be a frequent component. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods for most meals and snacks is generally recommended.