LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS OSCAR MAYER LEAN TURKEY, KRAFT REDUCED FAT CHEDDAR PASTEURIZED PROCESS CHEESE, CRACKERS, CAPRI SUN FRUIT PUNCH, AIRHEADS BLUE RASPBERRY AND CHERRY LUNCH COMBINATIONS, TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and ultra-processed nature. While it provides some protein and key micronutrients, these are outweighed by less favorable components.
This LUNCHABLES product scores 22/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category.
It provides 12.2g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 23.9g of added sugar per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider this product as an occasional item rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
12.2g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.9g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
707.32mg
31% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (12.2g)+8
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.9g)-25
Saturated fat (4.3g)-2
Sodium (707.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 22
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS received a FoodScore of 22/100, primarily driven by its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food. The product contains 23.9g of added sugar per 100g, largely from the 'FRUIT PUNCH FLAVORED JUICE DRINK BLEND FROM CONCENTRATE' which lists high fructose corn syrup as its second ingredient. This significantly contributes to the -25 penalty in its score. Additionally, its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food incurs a -10 penalty. The product also contains 4.27g of saturated fat and 707.32mg of sodium per 100g, leading to further penalties. On the positive side, it gains points for its protein content (12.2g) and the presence of some micronutrients, specifically 14% DV for calcium and 68% DV for Vitamin A. However, these benefits are not enough to offset the penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, sodium, and its processing level. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has lower added sugar and sodium, this LUNCHABLES product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lunchables turkey & cheddar cracker stackers oscar mayer lean turkey, kraft reduced fat cheddar pasteurized process cheese, crackers, capri sun fruit punch, airheads blue raspberry and cherry lunch combinations, turkey & cheddar cracker stackers actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Protein for Satiety
This LUNCHABLES product offers 12.2g of protein per 100g, primarily from the Oscar Mayer Lean Turkey. Protein is an essential macronutrient that contributes to feelings of fullness and supports muscle maintenance. Including protein in meals or snacks can help manage appetite and prevent overeating later in the day, making this a potentially useful component for short-term satiety.
Source of Calcium
The Kraft Reduced Fat Cheddar Pasteurized Process Cheese in this LUNCHABLES combination contributes 182.93mg of calcium per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily calcium intake, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy from other sources.
Contains Vitamin A
This product provides 68% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The presence of Vitamin A in this product can help meet daily requirements for this essential micronutrient, supporting overall health.
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature. While it provides some protein and key micronutrients, these are outweighed by less favorable components.
How to eat it
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS are typically consumed as a convenient, pre-packaged lunch or snack, often by children. The portion size is 2.9 ounces, designed for individual consumption. A common pitfall is viewing this as a complete meal due to its limited fiber and high added sugar.
Pair with fresh fruit or vegetables: Add an apple, a small banana, or a handful of baby carrots to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider as a snack, not a meal: Due to its nutritional profile, it is more appropriately consumed as a small snack rather than a primary meal.
Supplement with water: Drink water instead of the included fruit punch to reduce added sugar intake.
Portion control: Be mindful of the serving size and avoid consuming multiple packages in one sitting to manage calorie and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers may wish to be aware of. The 'FRUIT PUNCH FLAVORED JUICE DRINK BLEND FROM CONCENTRATE' lists high fructose corn syrup as a primary ingredient, which contributes significantly to the added sugar content. The 'ROAST WHITE TURKEY' includes sodium nitrite and 'natural and artificial flavor,' which are common in processed meats. Individuals sensitive to food additives or those monitoring their intake of processed ingredients may want to consider these components. The product also contains carrageenan, a common food additive used as a thickener and emulsifier, which some individuals report digestive sensitivities to. Allergens declared on the label are not available in the provided data, but consumers should always check the physical product packaging for specific allergen information.
Is LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS healthy?
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS scores 22/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is an ultra-processed food with high levels of added sugar and sodium, which are factors to limit in a balanced diet. While it offers some protein and select micronutrients, these do not outweigh the less favorable aspects of its nutritional profile.
How does LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS compare to a generic dairy equivalent?
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, such as a serving of plain cheese and whole-grain crackers, this LUNCHABLES product has a significantly higher added sugar content (23.9g per 100g) due to the included fruit punch and candy. It also contains more sodium and is classified as ultra-processed, whereas a simple cheese and cracker snack would be less processed and likely have no added sugar.
What is 'high fructose corn syrup' and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch, commonly used in many processed foods and beverages, including the fruit punch in this LUNCHABLES product. It is used for its sweetness and cost-effectiveness. From a nutritional perspective, it contributes to the product's high added sugar content, which is recommended to be limited in the diet.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The serving size for LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR CRACKER STACKERS is 2.9 ounces. Given its nutritional profile, it is best consumed as an occasional snack rather than a regular meal. To balance its impact, consider pairing it with whole, unprocessed foods like fresh fruits or vegetables.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
While this product can be consumed occasionally, it should not be a staple in a balanced diet. Its high added sugar and sodium content, combined with its ultra-processed nature, suggest it should be consumed in moderation. Prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables for daily nutrition.