MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE scores 49/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high saturated fat and sodium content**, despite offering notable protein and micronutrients.
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE has a FoodScore of 49/100 (Decent).
It provides a good source of protein (20g per 100g) and essential micronutrients.
The product is high in sodium (1700mg per 100g) and saturated fat (20g per 100g).
Compared to generic dairy, this product's NOVA class 2 indicates it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Use in small portions to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
Scores +16 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
20g
40% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1700mg
74% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (20g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (20g)-15
Sodium (1700mg)-10
Why it scores 49
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it earns a significant bonus for its high protein content, providing 20g per 100g. It also receives points for its micronutrient profile, notably offering 92% DV for calcium, 40% DV for iron, and 222% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. The product's NOVA class 2 classification, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient, also contributes positively to its score, suggesting a less complex processing level compared to ultra-processed foods. However, these benefits are offset by penalties. The product incurs a substantial penalty due to its high saturated fat content of 20g per 100g. Additionally, its sodium content of 1700mg per 100g leads to another significant penalty. The inclusion of corn starch and cellulose to prevent caking does not significantly impact the score positively or negatively but is a common additive in shredded cheese products. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE's score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation, particularly concerning fats and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in milano's, romano cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE is an excellent source of calcium, providing 1200mg (92% DV) per 100g. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods can help support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Incorporating small amounts of this cheese into meals can contribute to your daily calcium requirements, especially when paired with other calcium sources.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance
With 20g of protein per 100g, MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE can be a useful addition for muscle repair and growth. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including enzyme production and immune support. Including protein-rich foods like this cheese in your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs, particularly when aiming to maintain or build muscle mass, or simply to feel satiated after meals.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
Beyond calcium and protein, this Romano cheese offers other valuable micronutrients. It provides 7.2mg of iron (40% DV) and 222% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while Vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune function. While the portion size typically consumed is small, these contributions can add to your overall nutrient intake when consumed as part of a varied diet.
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE scores 49/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high saturated fat and sodium content, despite offering notable protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
Romano cheese is typically used as a flavor enhancer and finishing ingredient rather than a primary food source. It's commonly grated over pasta, salads, soups, and roasted vegetables. Due to its strong flavor and high sodium content, small portions are generally sufficient to impart taste.
Use MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE to add umami to vegetable dishes, such as roasted broccoli or asparagus, reducing the need for extra salt.
Sprinkle a small amount over a bowl of whole-wheat pasta with marinara sauce to boost protein and calcium content without excessive intake.
Combine with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice to create a flavorful, low-sodium topping for salads or grain bowls.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a tablespoon serving (which is less than 100g) is typically enough to flavor a dish.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE, which is 1700mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure, should use this product sparingly. The product also contains 20g of saturated fat per 100g, which should be considered within a balanced dietary pattern that limits saturated fat intake. The ingredient list notes the presence of corn starch and cellulose added to prevent caking, which are generally recognized as safe but can be a consideration for those with specific dietary sensitivities. As a dairy product, it contains milk and is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE scores 49/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers beneficial protein, calcium, iron, and Vitamin A. However, it is high in saturated fat and sodium. Its healthfulness depends on portion size and overall dietary context. When consumed in moderation as a flavor enhancer, it can fit into a balanced diet.
How does MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic hard cheese like Parmesan, MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE has a similar nutritional profile, often being high in protein and calcium but also in sodium and saturated fat. For example, a brand like Kraft Parmesan cheese also typically has high sodium and saturated fat. So, it's generally comparable to other hard, aged cheeses in terms of its nutrient density and areas for moderation.
What is the purpose of 'corn starch and cellulose' in the ingredients?
The corn starch and cellulose listed in MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE are added to prevent caking. These ingredients help keep the shredded cheese from clumping together in the package, ensuring it remains free-flowing and easy to use. They are common additives in many pre-shredded cheese products.
What is a reasonable portion size for MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE?
A reasonable portion size for MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE is typically 1 tablespoon (approximately 5-10g), as indicated by the serving size. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient profile, especially its high sodium and saturated fat content, using it sparingly as a condiment is recommended. This helps manage your intake of these nutrients.
Can MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE be used by people with lactose intolerance?
MILANO'S ROMANO CHEESE is made from pasteurized cow's and sheep's milk, and like other aged hard cheeses, it contains very little lactose. During the aging process, most of the lactose is broken down. Many individuals with lactose intolerance can tolerate small amounts of hard cheeses, but individual tolerance varies. It is not suitable for those with a dairy allergy.