MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its notable protein content and essential micronutrients, balanced against its saturated fat levels.
This Monterey Jack Cheese has a FoodScore of 55/100 (Decent).
It provides 25g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety and muscle health.
A significant concern is the 17.89g of saturated fat per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient.
Consider portion control due to its calorie and saturated fat density.
Scores +22 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
25g
50% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
607.14mg
26% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (25g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (607.1mg)-2
Why it scores 55
MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese achieves a FoodScore of 55/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and components that warrant moderation. On the positive side, the product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 25g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a dairy product. It also gains points for key micronutrients, specifically calcium (55% DV) and Vitamin A (119% DV), both important for bone health and vision, respectively. The product's classification as NOVA class 2, a processed culinary ingredient, also contributes positively to its score, indicating a relatively minimal level of processing compared to ultra-processed foods. However, the score is tempered by penalties, primarily from its saturated fat content, which is 17.89g per 100g. While cheese is naturally higher in saturated fat, this amount contributes to the overall fat intake. Additionally, the sodium content of 607.14mg per 100g incurs a minor penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese aligns closely in its nutritional profile, offering similar benefits and considerations regarding fat and sodium.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in monterey farms, monterey jack cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This Monterey Jack Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 714.29mg (55% DV) per 100g. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods like MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese can help support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially when combined with adequate Vitamin D intake. The presence of pasteurized milk as the primary ingredient ensures a natural source of this essential nutrient.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 25g of protein per 100g, this cheese can be a valuable contributor to daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. Including sources of complete protein like cheese in meals can help with satiety and support a healthy metabolism. This makes MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese a useful option for individuals looking to increase their protein consumption.
Source of Vitamin A
MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese provides a substantial amount of Vitamin A, offering 119% DV per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. Dairy products, especially those with higher fat content, are often good sources of this vitamin. Incorporating this cheese into your diet can help meet your daily Vitamin A needs, supporting various physiological processes.
MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its notable protein content and essential micronutrients, balanced against its saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
Monterey Jack cheese is a versatile dairy product commonly enjoyed in various forms in the US diet. It's often used shredded in Mexican-inspired dishes, sliced in sandwiches, or melted over vegetables. A typical serving size is 1 ounce, which is about a slice or a quarter cup shredded. Be mindful of portion sizes due to its calorie and fat density.
Pair with fruits like apples or pears to add dietary fiber and balance the richness of the cheese.
Use shredded Monterey Jack in moderation over salads or vegetable dishes to add flavor and calcium without excessive saturated fat.
Incorporate into a balanced meal alongside lean protein and whole grains to create a nutritionally complete plate.
Consider using a smaller portion of cheese and combining it with other flavorful ingredients like herbs or spices to enhance taste without adding more fat or sodium.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should avoid this product. The ingredient list is relatively short and free from artificial colors, flavors, or common preservatives like BHT or BHA. The presence of salt is typical for cheese and contributes to the sodium content, which is a factor to consider for individuals monitoring their sodium intake. Overall, for those without milk allergies, this Monterey Jack Cheese presents a straightforward ingredient profile without many of the additives often found in more processed foods.
MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese scores 55/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers beneficial protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. However, it is also high in saturated fat and contains a moderate amount of sodium. Its healthfulness depends on portion control and how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
How does MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese compare to other cheeses?
Compared to a generic cheddar cheese, MONTEREY FARMS Monterey Jack Cheese has a similar nutritional profile in terms of calories, protein, and fat. For example, a brand like Tillamook Medium Cheddar also contains comparable levels of saturated fat and sodium. The main differences often lie in flavor profile and texture, rather than significant nutritional variations within similar hard cheeses.
What is 'cheese culture' in the ingredients?
Cheese culture refers to specific bacteria added to milk during cheesemaking. These cultures are responsible for fermenting the milk sugars, which contributes to the flavor, texture, and aroma of the cheese. They are a standard and natural component in the production of most cheeses, including this Monterey Jack.
What is a reasonable portion size for this cheese?
A typical serving size for cheese is 1 ounce (28g). This amount provides approximately 110 calories, 7g of protein, and 5g of saturated fat. Sticking to this portion size helps manage your intake of calories and saturated fat, allowing you to enjoy the nutritional benefits without overconsumption.
Can I eat this cheese if I am lactose intolerant?
Many hard cheeses like Monterey Jack contain very little lactose due to the cheesemaking process, where lactose is converted into lactic acid by the cheese cultures. While some individuals with mild lactose intolerance may tolerate it, those with severe intolerance or a milk allergy should exercise caution or avoid it, as it is made from pasteurized milk.