LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS OSCAR MAYER LEAN TURKEY WHITE MEAT ONLY, KRAFT CHEDDAR PASTEURIZED PREPARED CHEESE PRODUCT, CRACKERS LUNCH COMBINATIONS, TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS scores 37/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
This LUNCHABLES product received a FoodScore of 37/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A serving provides 14.6g of protein, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.
The product is high in sodium, with 872.73mg per 100g, and contains 3.82g of added sugar.
As a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, it ranks lower than generic dairy equivalents.
Consider this product as an occasional convenience item rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +4 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
14.6g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.82g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
872.73mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (14.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.8g)-2
Saturated fat (8.2g)-10
Sodium (872.7mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 37
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS received a FoodScore of 37 out of 100, primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food. This category often indicates a higher degree of industrial processing and the presence of ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. The product incurs significant penalties for its high sodium content, at 872.73mg per 100g, and its saturated fat, which is 8.18g per 100g. Additionally, the presence of 3.82g of added sugar contributes a minor penalty. While it does receive bonuses for its protein content of 14.6g per 100g and for micronutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Calcium, these positive aspects are outweighed by the penalties. The inclusion of ingredients such as sodium nitrite and carrageenan are common in ultra-processed items and contribute to its NOVA classification. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has fewer additives and lower sodium, this LUNCHABLES product presents a less favorable nutritional balance.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lunchables turkey & cheddar with crackers oscar mayer lean turkey white meat only, kraft cheddar pasteurized prepared cheese product, crackers lunch combinations, turkey & cheddar with crackers actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This LUNCHABLES product offers 14.6g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals and snacks can also help promote feelings of fullness, which may assist with appetite regulation. While not a primary source of protein for a balanced diet, it can supplement intake in a convenient format.
Contains Essential Micronutrients
The product provides notable amounts of certain micronutrients, including 14% DV for calcium, 40% DV for Vitamin A, and 18% DV for Vitamin C per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and nerve function, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. Vitamin C is an antioxidant important for immune health and collagen synthesis. These contributions, though modest, add to the overall nutrient profile.
Convenient Meal or Snack Option
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS offers a convenient, pre-portioned option for a quick meal or snack, particularly useful for busy individuals or children. Its portability makes it easy to consume on the go, requiring no preparation. For situations where time and access to fresh food are limited, this product can serve as an accessible choice, providing calories and some nutrients quickly.
LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS scores 37/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
This LUNCHABLES product is typically consumed as a ready-to-eat lunch or snack, often by children. It comes in a single-serving package, making it convenient for packed lunches or quick consumption. The portion size is designed for individual use, and it's commonly eaten cold.
To improve the nutritional balance, pair this LUNCHABLES product with a serving of fresh fruit or vegetables to add fiber and additional vitamins.
Consider this as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
If sodium intake is a concern, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to help manage your overall daily intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in this product, at 872.73mg per 100g, which is a significant portion of the daily recommended limit. The ingredient list includes sodium nitrite, a common preservative in cured meats, and carrageenan, a food additive used for thickening and stabilizing. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to carrageenan. The product also contains sorbic acid as a preservative. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of milk in the cheddar pasteurized prepared cheese product.
Is LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS healthy?
This LUNCHABLES product scores 37/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein and some micronutrients like calcium and vitamins A and C, it is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) and is high in sodium and saturated fat. It is best considered an occasional convenience item rather than a healthy dietary staple.
How does LUNCHABLES TURKEY & CHEDDAR WITH CRACKERS compare to a generic dairy equivalent?
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, such as plain cheese and whole-grain crackers, this LUNCHABLES product typically contains higher levels of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. The generic equivalent would also likely have a simpler ingredient list, lacking the various preservatives and stabilizers found in this ultra-processed item. For example, a simple cheese stick and whole wheat crackers would generally have a better nutritional profile.
What is 'CHEDDAR PASTEURIZED PREPARED CHEESE PRODUCT'?
This ingredient is a processed cheese product, not natural cheese. It contains milk, water, milk protein concentrate, and milkfat, along with emulsifiers like sodium citrate and preservatives such as sorbic acid. This formulation gives it a specific texture and shelf stability, but it differs nutritionally from natural cheddar cheese.
What is a reasonable portion size for this LUNCHABLES product?
The product is sold in a single-serving package, which is intended to be one portion. However, due to its nutritional profile, particularly the high sodium and saturated fat, it's advisable to consider this portion as part of a larger, more balanced meal that includes fresh fruits or vegetables to enhance its nutritional value.
Can this product be part of a balanced diet?
Yes, this product can be included in a balanced diet, but it should be consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutrient-dense foods. Due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, it is not recommended as a frequent meal. Pairing it with fresh produce can help improve the overall nutritional quality of the meal.